Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Safe
Buying a safe is an important investment in protecting your valuables, but with so many options available, it’s easy to make mistakes that could leave you with the wrong fit. This article is going to cover the top 5 reasons our customers ended up replacing their safes.
1. Choosing the Wrong Size
One of the most common reasons customers replace their safe is because it’s too small. Many people only consider what they need to store right now without thinking about future needs. A safe that seems large enough today might fill up faster than expected.
Avoid this mistake by:
✔️ Taking an inventory of what you plan to store.
✔️ Factoring in extra space for future valuables.
✔️ Choosing a size slightly larger than you think you need.
2. Inadequate Protection
Not all safes offer the same level of security. Most safes that you buy at places like Costco or Tractor Supply have a very thin steel construction, making them some of the easiest safes to break into. Some other companies use cheaper locks to reduce the sale price of their safes, but consequently are easy to malfunction or break off.
Avoid this mistake by:
✔️ Checking for solid steel construction - the thicker the steel, the harder it is to break into
✔️ Ensure you’re buying your safe from a reputable manufacturer - it is not worth cutting corners for a cheaper cost
✔️ Choosing a locking system that suits your security needs.
3. Fire Risk & Concern
Over the years, there has been a growing concern about fires. Fires are the most common cause of property loss and destruction, and as a result, added fire liners have become an interest for several of our customers.
Avoid this mistake by:
✔️ Consider getting a safes with an added fire liner (ie. 1-hour or 2-hours of fire protection)
✔️ A fire liner may not be necessary if the steel is thick enough to withstand fire damage in a worst case scenario. At The Safe Gal, we recommend a ¼” minimum steel construction for your safe, this will offer at least 45-minutes of fire protection.
4. Buying the Cheapest Option
A safe is an investment in protecting your valuables - opting for the cheapest model could mean sacrificing security and durability. Thin metal, weak locking mechanisms, and lack of fireproofing can put your belongings at risk.
Avoid this mistake by:
✔️ Prioritize quality materials over low cost.
✔️ Read reviews and choose a reputable brand to build your safe.
✔️ Remember that a good safe lasts a lifetime.
5. Overlooking Customization Options
A one-size-fits-all safe may not meet your storage or design needs. Many buyers don’t realize they can customize their safe to fit their lifestyle, whether it’s adding shelves, jewelry drawers, or selecting a color that complements their space.
Avoid this mistake by:
✔️ Explore customizable interior and exterior options.
✔️ Think about what valuables you have and how you can organize them inside your safe.
✔️ Choose a safe that fits both function and style.
Final Thoughts
A well-chosen safe provides peace of mind for years to come. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll ensure that your investment offers you the best protection, durability, and convenience.
Looking for the perfect safe? The Safe Gal offers fully customizable safes built to last. Check out our customizable safes or fill out our quote form and receive a free quote in 1-3 business days. 🔒✨ Thanks for reading! #TheSafeGal
