So, you’ve finally built that dream orangery or charming outbuilding. Congratulations! But before you settle in to enjoy it, let’s talk security. I recently had a great chat with Abby, a security specialist who’s seen it all when it comes to protecting these beautiful additions. We dug deep into practical, effective security measures, and I’m excited to share what I learned.
Lighting: Your First Line of Defence
“Lighting is such an underrated deterrent,” Abby started, “It’s simple, relatively inexpensive, and incredibly effective.” She emphasised a multi-pronged approach. First, motion-activated lights. “Think about placing these strategically around your orangery or outbuilding. Aim for areas people are likely to approach – entrances, paths, and those vulnerable corners where shadows linger.” The key is to choose lights with adjustable sensitivity and duration. “You don’t want them triggering every time a cat walks past, but you also want them to stay on long enough to discourage anyone lurking.”
Abby also suggested timed lighting. “Evenings when you are away, set lamps inside the orangery and outbuildings to illuminate for a few hours. This will give the impression the property is occupied and may deter any opportunists”. Consider automated timer switches or smart bulbs that can be controlled remotely. This adds an extra layer of security, especially when you are away.
Finally, and crucially, eliminate blind spots. “Walk around your property at night,” Abby advised. “Where are the dark areas? These are where intruders feel most comfortable.” Think about placing lights to cover those spots, ensuring complete visibility around your orangery and outbuildings. She pointed out the importance of considering your neighbours and the environment. “Opt for energy-efficient LED lights and look for ‘dark sky friendly’ options that direct light downwards, minimising light pollution.” This not only helps protect the environment but also keeps you in good standing with the neighbours – a win-win!
Beyond Illumination: Alarms, Glass, and Locks
While lighting is a fantastic deterrent, it’s not a complete solution. Abby stressed the importance of a robust security system. “An alarm system connected to a monitoring service is essential, especially for higher-value outbuildings.” She recommended systems with door and window sensors, motion detectors, and even vibration sensors that can detect attempted break-ins. When looking at alarm systems consider pet-friendly options if you own a pet.
Next, let’s talk about glass. “Standard glass is easily broken,” Abby stated. “Consider upgrading to reinforced glass or even laminated glass, which is significantly harder to penetrate.” Security film can also be applied to existing glass to make it more resistant to shattering. This offers a cost-effective way to bolster your security.
Finally, secure locking mechanisms are paramount. “Don’t underestimate the importance of good quality locks,” Abby insisted. “Invest in British Standard locks (look for the kite mark) for all doors and windows.” She also suggested considering multi-point locking systems for doors, which provide enhanced security compared to single-point locks. For any windows, always remove the keys from the locks when not in use.
Putting It All Together
As Abby explained, protecting your orangery and outbuildings is about layering security measures. By combining strategic lighting, a reliable alarm system, reinforced glass, and robust locking mechanisms, you can create a significant deterrent against intrusion and theft. Remember to consider your neighbours and the environment when choosing your lighting options. By taking these steps, you can enjoy your beautiful new spaces with peace of mind.
