Did you know that almost 40% of Americans rent self storage units? That’s a lot of stuff!
If you’re looking for secure, long-term storage, it’s important to invest in a secure lock for the door. You wouldn’t want anyone else snooping through your belongings while you’re away.
Locking a storage unit door is a crucial step to ensure the security of personal belongings. That’s why we’ve compiled top tips to help keep intruders out of your items.
Our comprehensive guide ensures that everything inside the unit is safe and sound until you return. Here are some tips for how to lock your storage unit door like a pro:
Inspect the Storage Unit Door Regularly
Inspecting a storage unit door is vital to help ensure the safety and security of the items stored within. If you want to check whether a storage unit door is secure, there are several steps you should take:
Check the Built-In Lock
Check the latch or lock on your storage unit door; make sure it’s in good working order and that any pins or screws that hold it in place are tight. Also, if you install an extra deadbolt lock, test it to ensure it locks with each use.
Mind the Gaps
Look for gaps between the storage unit door frame and walls around it; these should be sealed off with appropriate weather-stripping material to prevent anyone from fitting through them (or accessing valuable stored goods).
Check the Hinges
Thieves often use hinges to break into storage units. If a door swings outward, all they have to do is remove the pin or screws that hold the hinges in place. To prevent this, make sure all your storage unit door hinges are well-secured with long screws and heavy bolts.
If necessary, replace them with stronger options such as stainless steel ones. Those will give greater durability against force attempts made by burglars or unwanted visitors who might try to enter your space.
Inspect All Entry Ways
Inspect all areas of your warehouse where someone could enter. Look for sites where an intruder can enter without breaking open a locked storage unit. Consider exposed windows and vents/ducts in roof spaces.
Check Emergency Exits
Make sure you’re familiar with the facility and its emergency exits. Many units come equipped with emergency exits designed for quick evacuation during emergencies. Check these too!
Could someone use an emergency exit as an unauthorized entrance point? Locking all exits (including the storage unit door) will help prevent unwanted intruders.
Secure Double Door Units
If you have chosen a double-door unit, use two locks so both doors so thieves can’t open them both at once. This is especially important if you’re storing a large item like a boat, RV, or vehicle.
The best way to secure double-door units is to use a high-security storage unit lock. These are usually heavy-duty steel and come with an extra locking bar to prevent intruders from unlocking them both at the same time.
Consider using two different types of locks on each side. Choose a disc lock for one side and a cylinder-style lock for the other side, if possible.
Use Multiple Locking Points
Use multiple locks for storage units to secure the door. Having two or more storage unit locks makes it much more difficult for someone to break into your storage unit.
Using several locks also ensures greater protection if you accidentally leave one unlocked. Someone would still need to break through another lock before opening the door.
This setup makes it more difficult for criminals as they will struggle to identify which lock needs breaking to gain entry.
Choose the Right Locks
Select a high-quality lock that won’t rust and will be difficult for burglars to pick or break. Disc locks work best with reinforced shackle durability and weather resistance. For added security, consider investing in a cylinder-style padlock with robust steel bodies and anti-drill plates.
Deadbolt Locks
The first option is a deadbolt lock. A deadbolt lock is a locking mechanism in which a bolt slides into the door’s frame and stays secured until it’s unlocked with a key or code.
Deadbolt locks are made from hardened steel, making them secure and difficult to pick or break into. They also come in various sizes, allowing you to choose one that best suits your particular door unit.
Make sure you install the deadbolt the right way. The bolt should extend at least one inch into the strike plate.
Disc Locks
Disc locks are one of the most secure choices. These are also made from hardened steel and include a disc-shaped lock mechanism and an anti-pick or bump key device.
Disc locks provide great protection against theft and need special tools to open them. They can be used alongside other self storage locks for added security.
The disc shape makes it difficult for thieves to get leverage when attempting to break open the lock with tools, adding an extra layer of security to your storage unit door.
Combination or Key Padlocks
Padlocks are portable locks that provide an easy way to secure two doors together with the same key or combination.
You attach one side of the lock around each handle on the door and fasten it shut before leaving. No keys or codes are necessary! This makes them ideal for quick access while providing adequate security.
Padlocks are less reliable than other locks. They should be one of your lowest defense sources. But they can provide an extra layer of security when used alongside other locks.
But you can choose higher-quality padlocks that are more difficult to pick or break. Be sure to select a padlock with a reinforced shackle and weather resistance to ensure it will stand up against corrosion and last you a long time. Consider purchasing a cylinder-style padlock with robust steel bodies and anti-drill plates for added protection.
Make sure the padlock is secured. The shackle should be completely inserted into the hasp and locked in place.
Electronic Locks
Electronic locks have become popular over recent years due to the convenience and added protection they offer compared to other types of locks mentioned above.
They need knowledge (a unique code) and physical access (a card key). These electronic locks can be programmed so that only those who know the right combination can enter through either door, ensuring extra safety and prevention against burglary altogether.
Smart Locks
Smart locks are gaining popularity as they offer a high level of convenience and control over your storage unit door. They are connected to a smartphone app that allows you to monitor who enters and exits the facility and opens or closes it remotely.
Smart locks use Bluetooth technology for added security; some come with sensors that alert you if someone tries to force the door open.
Boron Carbide Locks
Boron carbide locks are the toughest, most durable lock option when securing storage unit doors. Boron carbide is a ceramic material that is resistant to wear and tear.
You can be sure your door will stay secure regardless of weather conditions or attempts at forced entry.
The boron carbide lock is embedded into the door, making it virtually impossible to open without a key or combination.
Test Your Lock
It is important to ensure your lock work before leaving the property.
Consider the tools thieves might use to force entry and ensure your lock is up to the task.
Can your locks withstand a crowbar?
What about bolt cutters?
By taking the proper steps and investing in secure locks, you can ensure that it will be difficult for someone to break into your storage unit. Your valuables will be safe and sound until you’re ready to take them out again.
Make a habit of checking the integrity of your door and locks each time you leave your storage unit. Lock and unlock the door several times to ensure it closes behind you. Check for any signs of wear or damage, and make sure it’s well secured before leaving.
If you experience any issues, contact the property manager or a locksmith immediately to get the issue resolved before heading home.
Keep Your Locks Updated
It’s essential to keep your locks and keys up-to-date. An old lock is an easy target for thieves, and you don’t want to make it any easier for them.
The older the lock is, the less secure it will be against potential theft. Every now and then, replace your storage unit door locks with high-quality ones made of hardened steel to last longer and provide more security.
The same goes for keys: if you’ve had the same key set for a long time, it’s time to get new ones.
Updated locks and keys will give you peace of mind knowing your storage unit is secure against theft.
Change Your Combination or PIN Number
If you have an electronic lock, regularly changing your code or PIN can help protect against theft. Setting a different combination every month or two will make it much harder for thieves to guess your entry code.
Take the extra step and combine letters, numbers, and symbols to create more difficult-to-guess passwords. Don’t use birthdays or the names of family members to create your code because they are easy to guess. And no, don’t use your pet’s name, either.
A random mix of letters and numbers will help make it more difficult for someone to guess your code.
Don’t Be Cheap
Invest in the good stuff because when it comes to locks. Because you get what you pay for. High-quality locks made of hardened steel or other hard materials are the way to go.
A good rule of thumb is to go with the heavier lock. The heavier it is, the more secure it will be against theft and forced entry.
Good locks cost you a bit more money. Shop online instead of at your local hardware store. These locks will be more durable and provide better security than cheaper models.
It’s worth it in the long run for peace of mind knowing that your storage unit is safe and secure. If you’re storing a vehicle or other large investment, you’ll need the best locks you can find!
Keep Your Storage Unit Clean and Orderly
A clean, organized storage unit is a deterrent for theft. How?
Thieves like to target units full of clutter because it makes it easier to hide their activities. And the disorganization will make it harder for you to identify any items that may take. It’s easier to steal from someone who won’t realize what’s missing right away.
So take the time to clean and organize your storage unit, and keep it that way between visits.
Install a Security System
Install a security system inside or outside your storage unit. A security system will deter thieves and alert you if someone does try to break in. Thieves will think twice before breaking in if they know you’ve installed a security system.
Choose one that also includes motion sensors, cameras, and/or alarms to provide an extra layer of protection. This can help you identify any suspicious activity and alert the authorities if necessary.
And if the facility has any surveillance system, ensure it is working right and you have access to the footage.
Find Storage Units in Kingston, WA
No matter which type of lock you choose for your storage unit, ensure you get a mix of good quality locks and install them right. This will provide extra protection and peace of mind when leaving your storage unit unattended.
With proper preparation, you can rest assured that your possessions are well-protected!
Remember that when it comes to keeping valuables safe, prevention is always better than cure. Take the necessary steps to ensure your storage unit door is secure and that you have the right security measures. Your belongings will be much safer for them!
At Ideal Storage, you can find the best secure storage unit in Kingston, WA, to keep your belongings safe and secure. Visit us today or call 360-900-9762 to learn more about our storage units and locking options!