When buying a garden shed, you’ll notice that dedicated security sheds often come with a higher price tag than standard models of a similar size. This inevitably leads to the question: is the extra cost for a security shed vs standard shed actually worth the investment? The answer depends largely on what you intend to store, your location, and your tolerance for risk.
Standard sheds provide basic shelter and storage, while security sheds are specifically engineered with enhanced features to deter theft. Understanding the differences in features, costs, and potential benefits, including shed insurance implications, will help you determine if the added expense provides genuine secure storage value for your situation.
Standard Sheds: The Baseline
Features: Basic construction (often overlap or thinner shiplap cladding), standard hinges, simple hasp and staple or basic key lock, standard horticultural glass or styrene windows (if any).
Pros: Lower initial cost, wide variety of styles and sizes, adequate for storing low-value items or general garden clutter.
Cons: Vulnerable to break-ins, basic locks easily overcome, standard windows easily broken, thinner construction offers less resistance.
Security Sheds: The Upgrade
Features: Thicker cladding, reinforced frames and doors, security hinges (bolted/hidden), advanced locking mechanisms (multi-point, heavy-duty bolts), secure glazing or windowless design, anchoring provisions.
Pros: Significantly higher resistance to forced entry, greater peace of mind, may be required by insurance for high-value items, potentially deters opportunistic thieves.
Cons: Higher initial cost, may have fewer aesthetic options (e.g., windowless designs)
Explore the robust features of our security sheds.
Cost Comparison: Quantifying the Difference
The price difference between a standard shed and a security shed of the same size can vary, but you can typically expect a security model to cost 20-50% more, sometimes even higher for top-tier specifications. This extra cost reflects the upgraded materials (thicker timber, better locks, stronger hinges) and more complex construction required for enhanced security.
When is a Security Shed Worth It?
Consider the value of what you plan to store:
High-Value Items: If you store expensive bikes (especially e-bikes), high-end power tools, specialist gardening machinery, or other valuable equipment, the extra cost of a security shed is almost certainly justified. The cost of replacing stolen items often far exceeds the price difference.
Moderate Value Items: Even for items like good quality hand tools, lawnmowers, or multiple bikes, the cumulative value can be significant. A security shed offers better protection.
Low-Value Items: If you’re only storing basic garden tools, firewood, or empty pots, a standard shed might suffice, perhaps with an upgraded padlock.
Other Factors:
Location Risk: If shed break-ins are common in your area, or your shed is in an isolated spot, the extra security is more valuable.
Insurance Requirements: Check your home insurance policy. Some insurers require specific security standards (like those found in dedicated security sheds) for outbuilding contents cover, especially for high-value items like bikes. Failing to meet these could invalidate a claim. Investing in a security shed might even lead to lower premiums in some cases, offsetting the garden shed cost comparison.
Peace of Mind: For many, the reduced worry about theft is worth the extra cost regardless of the monetary value stored.
Calculating the Value Proposition
To decide is a security shed worth it, compare:
Cost Difference: Price of security shed – Price of standard shed.
Potential Loss: Replacement cost of items stored + Insurance excess + Hassle/Time.
If the potential loss significantly outweighs the cost difference, a security shed is a sensible investment.
Conclusion: Investing in Prevention
While a standard shed offers basic storage, a security shed provides a significantly higher level of protection designed to deter and resist break-in attempts. The decision between a security shed vs standard shed comes down to a personal assessment of risk versus cost. If you store items of significant monetary or sentimental value, or if your insurance requires it, the extra investment in a security shed offers tangible secure storage value and invaluable peace of mind. It’s often far cheaper to invest in prevention than to deal with the aftermath of theft.
Make the secure choice for your valuables. Browse the range of standard and security sheds at Flat Pack Sheds to compare options.
