Floor safes provide a discreet and secure way to store valuables, keep them hidden from view, and protect them from theft. These safes can exist in various locations, such as beneath carpets, in closets, or under furniture, offering flexible and discreet options for safeguarding valuables. Discover security features to look for in modern floor safes and how professional installation ensures the safe works correctly.

Drill-Resistant Hardplate

A hardplate in a safe is a tough, hardened steel component that protects the locking mechanism from drilling, cutting, and other forced entry methods. Safe engineers create the hardplate through a heat treatment process that involves heating the steel to a high temperature and quickly cooling it, often in water or oil, to improve its hardness and strength. Then, they place the hardplate in front of the lock to prevent drilling the lock open.

This feature not only deters burglars and guarantees a functional locking mechanism, even after attempted tampering. A safe with a drill-resistant hardplate provides peace of mind to owners, knowing the contents are protected.

UL-Listed Mechanical Dial Lock

A UL-Listed Mechanical Dial Lock is a common type of lock with floor safes, and it offers a reliable security mechanism. This lock operates by turning a dial with numbers to align with specific combinations, providing access to the safe. The UL (Underwriters Laboratories) certification ensures that the lock meets rigorous industry standards and has undergone extensive testing to verify its durability and resistance to tampering.

Some of the key advantages of a UL Listed Mechanical Dial Lock for a floor safe are its reliability and simplicity. The lock operates purely through mechanical means, so you have access to the safe without the need for power or batteries.

Security Features To Look For in Modern Floor Safes

Spring-Loaded Relocking Device

A spring-loaded relocking device is another security feature in modern floor safes. This mechanism automatically re-engages the lock if an intruder tries to tamper with or disable it. Designed as a secondary measure, the relocking device makes brute-force attempts incredibly difficult, increasing resistance against advanced break-in methods. This feature offers an additional layer of security so that the contents of your safe remain protected even during aggressive intrusion attempts.
Spring-loaded relocking devices activate instantly and operate independently of the primary lock. Automatic functionality eliminates the risk of leaving the safe vulnerable to forced entry when under attack. With other features, this device acts as a failsafe to thwart burglars and reduce the risk of theft.

Solid Steel Locking Bolts

Solid steel locking bolts are heavy-duty metal rods that secure the door of a floor safe. They are typically located along the edges of the safe’s door. When the safe is locked, these bolts slide into recesses within the body of the safe, forming a tight seal that prevents the door from being opened. Their primary role is to deter forced entry attempts, such as prying, and make it extremely difficult for unauthorized individuals to gain access.

The operation of these locking bolts relies on a locking mechanism that engages them when the safe is locked. By turning the safe’s handle or key, the mechanism causes the bolts to extend or retract smoothly along their tracks. The strength and number of bolts play a vital role in resisting physical attacks, such as the use of crowbars or impact tools.

Powder Coating

Powder coating is a protective layer that adds durability and style to a floor safe. This process involves applying a powdered material electrostatically before baking it under high heat, resulting in a tough, corrosion-resistant surface. The coating protects the safe from daily wear and tear that might otherwise compromise its structure.

Beyond aesthetics, powder coating enhances the safe’s longevity; it can endure years of use without deterioration! When evaluating potential safes, prioritize ones with a quality powder-coated finish to protect their contents and external appearance.

Security Features To Look For in Modern Floor Safes

Full-Length Dead Bar

A full-length dead bar provides reinforcement for a safe’s door, making it significantly difficult to pry open. If an unauthorized person removes the safe’s hinges, the dead bar prevents them from removing the door.

This feature works in harmony with solid steel locking bolts to create a multi-layered defense mechanism. The floor safe you choose should include this feature to keep your valuables secure against even the most determined thieves.

Professional Installation

Even the most advanced floor safe can fail to deliver its full potential without professional placement and installation. Discreet placement ensures the safe remains hidden from prying eyes, while professional in-ground safe installation encases it within the concrete foundation and minimizes the risk of tampering. Placing your safe in a strategic location and having it installed properly not only enhances security but also offers convenience so you can access your valuables without drawing attention.

Floor safes sit directly in the concrete for maximum security and concealment, making them extremely difficult to tamper with or remove. However, professionals cannot install them in a post-tension slab, which is reinforced with steel cables that stretch under tension to strengthen the structure. Drilling or cutting into this type of slab can damage the cables, compromise the slab’s integrity, and lead to significant structural problems throughout the building.

Professional installation involves the following steps:

  • Determine a location that offers concealment as well as accessibility to ensure security and ease of use.
  • Prepare the space carefully to minimize disruption to the surrounding area.
  • Cut a clean perimeter in the concrete slab and remove all concrete and necessary dirt to make room for the safe.
  • Ensure the safe is placed level and flush with the surface of the concrete slab.
  • Pour new concrete surrounding the safe to encase it.
  • Verify that the safe is level, secure, and working perfectly.

At Boswell Safe and Vault, we take a customer-first approach to floor safe installations. After securing the safe, your technician will walk you through the operation of the locking mechanism to make sure you fully understand how it works. They’ll help you set up your lock and answer any questions you have. This final step ensures the safe is functional and you feel confident using it to protect your valuables.

Robust security features and expert installation guarantee that your floor safe provides reliable, long-term security. Drill-resistant hardplates, spring-loaded relocking devices, solid steel bolts, and dead bars create a strong barrier against theft and tampering. Powder coating further enhances durability and security. Finally, professionals can strategically place and securely anchor the safe for optimal protection and convenience.