Outdoor furniture can be an inviting target for thieves looking to make a quick score. However, there are many steps you can take to deter criminals and prevent your outdoor furniture from being stolen. With some clever tactics and security measures, you can protect your investment and peace of mind.
Keep Your Outdoor Furniture Out of Sight
The first line of defense is to keep your outdoor furniture out of sight when it’s not in use. Criminals are less likely to target items they can’t see. Here are some ways to conceal your outdoor furniture:
Store It in a Locked Shed or Garage
The most secure option is to keep furniture in a locked shed or garage when not in use. Be sure to anchor any outdoor storage units to the ground so they can’t be carried away. Install motion-sensor lights on the storage facility as an added theft deterrent.
Use Screened-In Areas or Fencing
If you have a screened-in porch or courtyard, keep furniture there when not in use. Fenced areas also help block visibility from the street. Use privacy screens or strategic plantings to further obscure the view.
Cover with Weather-Resistant Fabric
Bungee-corded covers in neutral colors can effectively camouflage patio sets, grills, and other items when not in use. Be sure to completely cover the entire piece.
Bring Cushions Indoors
Cushions are easy targets for thieves. Remove them from chairs and chaises when not in use and store them securely indoors.
Secure Furniture When in Use
Hiding your furniture from sight helps deter thieves, but you’ll also need to secure items that are in use. Here’s how:
Bolt Down or Anchor Furniture
Bolting furniture frames to the ground or anchoring with security cables prevents thieves from being able to lift and carry away your belongings. This is especially important for large, heavy pieces.
Best Practices for Bolting Down Furniture:
- Use 1/4 inch galvanized steel anchors and bolts to avoid rusting.
- Bolt through inconspicuous spots like under chair seats.
- For tables, bolt through the center pedestal or legs.
- Secure anchoring cables with carabiners behind planters or underneath to hide.
Lock Patio Tables
Specialty patio table locks insert through the tile top to secure to the underframe. These can be easily installed on most standard patio table styles.
Secure Chair and Chaise Straps
Install straps with combination or keyed locks to secure adjustable straps on chairs, chaises, and hammocks. This prevents thieves from loosening straps to steal cushions or entire pieces.
Use Locking Casters for Movable Pieces
For wheeled pieces like serving carts, bar carts, and Hamptons-style seating, install locking casters. These will immobilize the piece when locked. Remove any non-locking casters.
Install Tabletop Locks
Small pads with combination locks can be used to secure patio tabletops to the base. These are good for smaller bistro sets.
Utilize Security Lighting
Well-lit areas help deter criminal activity. Security lighting makes potential thieves feel exposed and more likely to be caught.
Use Motion-Sensor Floodlights
Position motion-sensor floodlights to fully illuminate gates, side yards, patios, and any shadowy areas around your property. Choose a model with a wide field of detection.
Install Security Spotlights
Spotlights aimed at key areas create a bright glow. Use flood, bullet, or spot style lights. Program spotlights to random intervals to simulate occupancy.
Accent with Pathway Lighting
Low-voltage LED path lights prevent dark walkways that criminals could use to access your yard undetected.
Light Trees and Shrubs
Strategic up lighting in trees and silhouette lighting behind shrubs illuminates potential hiding spots.
Consider Smart Wi-Fi Lighting
Smart Wi-Fi lighting allows you to control lights remotely so it appears you are home. Schedule random light activations if away for extended periods.
Illuminate Driveways and Side Yards
Ensure good visibility on driveways, yards, and entryways leading to patio and deck spaces. Criminals avoid well-lit exposure.
Invest in a Security System
Security systems provide 24/7 monitoring and alert you to any criminal activity. Features like sensors, cameras, and alarms actively deter theft.
Install Security Cameras
Cameras provide visual evidence and confirmation of any criminal activity. Position cameras to view valuables and high traffic areas.
Add Motion Detectors
Motion-activated sensors trigger alarms and alerts to detect intruders. Place these near furniture and entryways to outdoor living spaces.
Use Audible Alarms
Loud audible security alarms likely scare off would-be thieves before they can steal or damage property. Choose a 120+ decibel siren alarm.
Signage as Deterrent
Prominently display stickers and signs for your security system. Criminals often avoid properties with visible alarm system warnings.
Monitor with a Security Service
A monitored system alerts security professionals to respond to alarms and record video evidence from cameras. Some services also notify local police.
Install GPS Asset Tracking
GPS tracking devices attached to valuables like grills relay the asset’s location if stolen. This helps recover stolen property.
Take Preventative Measures
Simple preventative measures take away the opportunity for theft. Storing valuables and blocking access prevents tempting targets.
Lock Gates, Side Yards, and Sheds
Locked entry points prohibit unauthorized access to yards and block areas where furniture is stored. Use high-quality padlocks.
Remove Wheels When Possible
Wheels make it easy for thieves to quickly roll away your belongings. Remove wheels from furniture if possible when not needed for repositioning.
Create Obstacles
Thorny rose bushes or prickly bamboo planted around patio fences make it harder for thieves to access. Shrub beds along foundations block entry.
Disable Electric Powered Pieces
For electric patio furniture like recliners, swivel chairs, and specialty pieces, remove and securely store the electric motors when not in use.
Inventory Your Property
Catalog your outdoor furniture with photos in case it is stolen. Photos help identify stolen goods for police reports and insurance claims.
Permanently Mark Your Property
Engraving your name, phone number, address, or social security number on furniture helps identify your property. Markings deter some thieves who fear getting caught with marked items.
Secure the Perimeter of Your Property
A perimeter fence with locked access helps prevent easy entry by criminals from the street.
Install Tall Fencing
Solid fencing at least 6 feet tall blocks visibility from the sidewalk and hides outdoor living areas. Avoid chain link fencing.
Use Locking Gates
Gates leading to yards should be kept locked at all times. Use high-grade padlocks on side and rear gates.
Post Beware of Dog Signs
Signs warning of guard dogs may deter criminals even if you don’t have one. Use signs prominently on gates and fences.
Trim Overgrown Foliage
Keeping trees, bushes, and ground cover trimmed prevents creation of hidden access points a thief could use. Eliminate hiding spots.
Add Security Spikes
Spiked fencing caps, serrated wire, or electric fence tops prevent criminals from easily scaling walls and gates.
Close Gaps Around Fences
Scan for any gaps in perimeter fencing that need repair where an intruder could squeeze through. Eliminate weak spots.
Take Added Precautions for Grills
Grills are especially tempting targets for thieves. Take these added measures to protect your grill investment:
Store Your Grill Indoors
Wheeled grills can be rolled into a locked garage or shed when not in use. If you have a built-in grill, install locking covers.
Immobilize Grills with Chains
Secure grills to immoveable objects on your patio or deck using hardened chains and padlocks. Use restaurant grade chains.
Purchase Anti-Theft Grill Covers
Specialty grill covers with integrated lockable straps secure both the lid and body to deter tampering.
Remove Accumulator Boxes
Theft of propane accumulator boxes is common. Remove them when your grill is not in use.
Engrave Grill Parts
Use an electric engraving tool to subtly mark grill lids, doors, handles, and side tables. Identifiable markings may deter thieves.
Bolt Down Built-In Grills
Permanently installed grills can be bolted into the surrounding materials using galvanized steel hardware.
Monitor with Grill Sensors
Wi-Fi grill monitors alert your phone if your grill is moved or opened unexpectedly, making theft attempts obvious.
Be Proactive in Your Community
Get involved in building neighborhood security to create a safer environment with less opportunity for criminals.
Form a Neighborhood Watch
Collaborate with your neighbors to keep eyes on the street. Trade contact info to relay suspicious activity. Agree to watch each others’ property.
Know Your Neighbors
Socializing occasionally helps you spot strangers or unusual vehicles that seem out of place.
Lobby Local Government
Petition for improved street lighting, increased police patrols, stronger sentencing for theft, and building code requirements for security measures.
Share Security Tips
Exchange ideas with neighbors about lighting, alarms, and other successful security techniques to apply new ideas.
Report Suspicious Activity
If you observe questionable behavior that may signify casing for theft, call the non-emergency police number. Reporting helps police identify patterns.
Be Vigilant Daily
Frequently scanning for signs of tampering and updating your security tactics keeps thieves guessing.
Vary Your Lighting Schedule
Use timers and smart controls to turn lights on and off at staggered intervals to mimic occupancy patterns. Avoid predictable away mode settings.
Check for Damage Regularly
Walk the perimeter of your property in daylight monthly to check for compromised access points or damage to fences where criminals could enter.
Update Landscaping
Trim growth frequently to eliminate places where intruders could hide. Change plantings annually to alter the landscape.
Reassess Security Tactics
Review the effectiveness of lighting, alarms, anchors, storage, and perimeter control monthly. Improve weaknesses.
Repair Access Points
Fix fence gaps, broken locks, sticking gates, and any flaws that allow easy entry. Eliminate security defects promptly.
Common Questions about Securing Outdoor Furniture from Theft
How much does it cost to secure patio furniture?
Basic security starts around $150. This includes anchoring cable, weather-resistant furniture covers, and patio table locks. Higher-end options like monitored alarm systems, security cameras, and smart lighting cost $1500+ for installation and monthly fees.
What is the best way to anchor outdoor furniture?
Galvanized steel anchor bolts into concrete pads or footers offer the strongest anchoring. For softer surfaces, use duckbill earth anchors. Chains and marine-grade cables provide the most cut-resistant tethers between furniture and anchors.
Can outdoor furniture be insured against theft?
Yes, outdoor furniture can be covered by homeowners or renters insurance. Make an itemized inventory with photos and receipts for proof of value. Higher premiums often apply for coverage beyond a certain amount. GPS asset tracking helps prove theft claims.
What furniture is most targeted for theft?
Portable grills, cushions, and smaller bistro sets are most commonly stolen. Thefts increase as the quality and cost of the furniture increases. Teak, stainless steel, and specialty cooking products are popular targets.
How can you identify stolen outdoor patio furniture?
Markings from engraving, damage from tampering, broken security straps, and severed tethers may signify stolen goods. Removed wheels, makeshift covers, and attempts to disguise nice furniture also raise red flags. Check registries of stolen property.
Conclusion
Outdoor furniture can be kept safely secure with consistent application of protective measures. Anchoring, proper storage, strategic lighting, and active monitoring work together to deter theft and protect your investment. Be proactive about analyzing security, vary tactics routinely, and address vulnerabilities immediately. With vigilance and adaptation, you can relax and enjoy your outdoor living space without fear of losing furniture to criminals. The most effective theft prevention requires a multilayered approach customized to your property.
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Learn how to deter and prevent outdoor patio furniture theft. Tips cover furniture anchoring, storage, perimeter control, lighting, alarms, and other security tactics to stop criminals targeting your outdoor living investment.