Today's article will examine the pros and cons of placing your gun safe in the garage. Is it the best option? Is it even a long-term option at all? Let's take a look.
First, let's talk about the factors to consider.
- The condition and type of your garage. This may be elementary, but before we move on to the Safe itself, we must first qualify its host. If your garage is prone to leaking or susceptible to other elements that may cause a safe to rust prematurely, then your garage might not be the best spot for your Safe.
- The size of your Safe: At Blue Ridge Safe, we sell and install all dimensions and weights safes. There are some definite advantages to placing your Safe in the garage, especially if it is large and/or heavy. Usually, garages have a hard floor that will not be damaged by rolling heavy safes across them. They also normally have a clear path for entry. Based on the size of your Safe, this might make the garage the only option.
How Do You Safely Install a Gun Safe in Your Garage?
So, you have decided that the garage is indeed the best spot for your gun Safe. What now?
If you have made the wise choice to have the Expert Delivery Team at Blue Ridge Safe install your Safe, we will need only one thing from you. A clear path to the Safes final resting spot. The garage tends to be a catch-all for things that need a temporary resting spot. It is not uncommon for homeowners to have a garage full of "stuff." We only need enough space to get your new safe inside and maneuvered into position. The greatest area will be the actual final resting spot. We ask for 24 inches on each side of the Safe you ordered. Example: your Safe = 48 inches wide + we need 48 inches = 96 inches required total space.
Level the Safe, Creating an Airflow Pocket Beneath It
You have rightfully recognized the need to protect your valuables with a Safe. Now, let's protect your Safe and make it work properly. Our Expert Delivery Team will:
1 Create an air gap between the safe and the floor. We do this by installing Liberty Safe’s Safe Saver stackable plastic risers, plastic wedges, or other materials that you would provide. Why? The reason is simple, to keep moisture from accumulating and remaining under the Safe. You never want to install a safe directly to concrete because concrete draws and retains moisture. It is imperative to us at Blue Ridge Safe that your investment last forever. Failure to create the proper air gap using the appropriate materials could lead to rust.
2 Level your Safe to ensure proper door swing: If your Safe isn't level, the door can unexpectedly swing further open or closed while you're accessing the contents. This can range from annoying to dangerous if a 500-pound door suddenly closes on you.
Ensuring the Safety of Your Safe by Bolting it to the Garage Floor
Should I bolt down my Safe to the garage floor?
Our Expert Delivery Team at Blue Ridge Safe recommends that you bolt down your Safe no matter the size or security level. The benefits absolutely outweigh the investment required. In the event of an attempted breach, would-be safe crackers who attempt to pry open your Safe will want to lay it down to gain leverage. Bolting your Safe fast will give your safe an edge in doing its job, keeping your valuables secure.
Should I use a dehumidifier and/or a desiccant?
One of the first topics we discussed in this article was the condition of your garage. One of the reasons this matters so much is humidity or moisture. We all know that moisture is the enemy of all things metal. Consequently, our Expert Delivery Team recommends using an air-drying device. There are two types of dehumidifiers we offer at Blue Ridge Safe.
- Electric-powered heating element.
- Desiccant Can: For more information on these, see our article "Do I need a dehumidifier in my Safe?"
Can I move my Safe later?
Absolutely! Our Expert Delivery Team can most definitely move your Safe even after it's bolted down. For more information on this, see our article "How to Move a Gun-Safe."