How can I secure my log cabin

Unfortunately, we live in a world where security has to be a large priority. Our cars, our homes, our personal possessions… nothing is ever entirely safe. If you own a log cabin, then keeping anything inside safe and secure will need to be one of your earliest considerations. So what are the best ways to secure a log cabin?

Check that the locks comply with BS5839 or EN1303 standards

This means that the locks comply with British standards and should be fit for purpose.

Fit hinge bolts to the hinge sides of the doors

If an intruder is faced with a difficult door lock, then a popular workaround is to remove the whole door via the hinges. However, by fitting hinge locks it severely impedes an intruder’s ability to do remove the doors, creating another obstacle to a break in.

Install additional locks

Secondary locking is always advisable, both as a visible and practical deterrent for thieves. Door bolts, padlocks and pad bars are all suitable options. You should also remember to secure any windows, and there are a variety of products on the market to help you do this.

Fit an alarm system

There are a number of alarm systems that are suitable for outbuildings, including sheds, garages and log cabins. Some people also choose to mount CCTV inside and outside their cabin, particularly if they contain expensive equipment.

Improving the overall security of your garden

If your log cabin is within your garden– and we suspect it probably is – then improving the overall security of the area surrounding your cabin can be hugely beneficial and act as an additional deterrent to any potential thieves.

Steps that you can take to secure your garden include:

• Make fences harder to climb over by attaching trellis to the top. Trellis isn’t strong enough to hold an intruder’s weight. For an extra deterrent, plant thorny climbing roses at the bottom of the fence too!

• Keep any hedges or walls less than a metre high as this makes is extremely difficult for an intruder to hide behind them.

• Use gravel on paths and drives – it is impossible for anyone to be silent on this type of surface!

• Motion-sensitive lighting acts as a great deterrent to unwanted visitors. Make sure you cover any parts of your garden that an intruder could use as a point of entry.

• Keep on top of your fence maintenance. Any weaknesses in your fence could be easily exploited. Ideally perimeter fences should be at least 2m high to present more of a challenge to any unwanted visitors.

• Keep your bins away from the boundaries. This will stop them being used as a step.

• Take advantage of nature’s own defences. Plenty of plants act as natural deterrents to intruders including holly, blue spruce, giant rhubarb and bramble. Planting these at the perimeter to your property could stop an intruder in his tracks!