Those beautiful autumn leaves you’ve been admiring are not so pretty when they’re clogging your gutters. Acorns, leaves, branches, and other debris have a way of piling up, leading to blockages that can cause water damage and costly repairs. Enter gutter guards—a practical solution that keeps debris out while letting rainwater flow freely. Here’s a quick guide to gutter guards, including why autumn is the best time to check and clean your own gutters.
What exactly are gutters?
Gutters are channels along the edge of your roof that direct water away from your home. They include downspouts that bring water down to the ground, moving it at least 5-10 feet away from the foundation. When gutters get clogged, they no longer work the way they should. Water could stay pooled in the channels or move in ways that negatively affect your home. Clogged gutters can lead to expensive problems: soil erosion, basement flooding, structural damage, roof damage, siding damage, and foundation issues. A buildup of debris could also increase the risk of a fire. Luckily, there is an easy way to protect your gutters from getting clogged – gutter guards.
Types of Gutter Guards
There are many different types of gutter guards. Some can be self-installed, and others require a professional. Below is a brief description of the main kinds along with their pros and cons. (Check the warranty on your shingles before you install a gutter guard that requires attaching directly to shingles with screws or nails as that could potentially void it.)
Screen Guards
This is like a window screen for your gutters. The screen keeps out debris while the holes let the water pass through.
Pros: These guards are affordable and can be self-installed.
Cons: Dirt and small debris can still pass through the screen and get in your gutter. These guards need to be removed and cleaned at least once a year.
Micro-mesh Guards
Micro-mesh guards are like screen guards, but with holes that are much tinier. They are particularly good at keeping out pine needles and dirt, which can slip through larger openings. These guards are usually made of stainless steel and other durable materials.
Pros: Micro-mesh guards are low maintenance, and long lasting. They are easy to clean and should be cleaned every 3-12 months.
Cons: They require professional installation.
Reverse-Curve Guards (Surface Tension Guards)
These guards are attached beneath the shingles, and they go over the gutter and curve back a little. The curve creates a hood, so debris doesn’t get into the gutter, but the unique design lets the water seep through.
Pros: These are long-lasting and low maintenance guards.
Cons: Reverse-curve guards require professional installation. They also are highly visible and could affect your home’s aesthetic.
Brush Guards
These guards are made of stiff brushes that point up inside your gutters. The bristles catch debris as the water passes through.
Pros: They are easy to install and remove for cleaning.
Cons: These guards require frequent cleaning. Small debris can get caught in the brushes’ bristles, and these guards can be tough to clean as a result.
Foam Guards
This triangular-shaped foam fits inside your gutter to prevent leaves and other debris from lodging there. It’s usually made from polyurethane and has a spongy texture that allows water to flow through. Some foam guards restrict water flow more than others.
Pros: These are affordable and easy to install. They are good at blocking large debris.
Cons: Small debris can enter through gaps between the foam and gutter walls. The foam also can break and is susceptible to mold due to dampness. These need to be replaced every 1-2 years, depending on weather conditions in your area.
DIY vs. Professional
Should you install your own gutter guards or hire a professional? Here are some things to consider.
Choose DIY gutter guards and install them yourself if:
You want or need to save money.
You’re generally handy and comfortable on a ladder.
Your roof is easy to access.
You like the choices available for DIY. You can find most at your local home improvement store.
Hire a professional to install your gutter guards if:
You have the budget for professional installation, and you prefer the convenience.
You want a warranty to show the installation was done correctly and that will address potential future issues.
You want a higher quality gutter guard than is available DIY.
Your roof is unusually steep or is difficult to access.
You have concerns about doing it yourself.
Before the Installation
The best time to install gutter guards is late summer and early fall. This helps prepare for the large volume of leaves that start coming down during the season. Before the installation, you will want to clean and check your gutters.
Cleaning your gutters is part of fall home maintenance. It helps to ensure that your home is ready for winter storm season and severe weather. Here’s a quick overview of how the process is done.
Gather your supplies: a bucket for debris, trowel or gutter scoop, garden hose with spray nozzle, latex or waterproof gloves to protect your hands from wet debris, safety eyewear, and a sturdy ladder.
Start at the downspout. Use your gloved hand or a trowel to remove leaves, twigs and packed material.
Then go up to roof level on your ladder. Use your gloved hand to clear large debris like leaves or twigs. Use the trowel for compacted debris.
Remove and clean the downspout strainer.
Flush the downspout and the gutter with water from your hose.
Look for leaks, making sure water flows freely through the downspout. You will want to repair any issues before you add gutter guards.
Inspect your gutter for rust spots or peeling paint which could show signs of deterioration. Again you will want to address any issues and potentially replace those parts before adding the guards.
Look for mold or mildew near the foundation which could mean water is getting in there. That could signal a larger problem.
Ready to start the project?
Once you have clean gutters without any issues, you are ready to protect them with gutter guards. Measure your gutters so that you will be able to purchase the right length of gutter guards. If you’re doing a DYI installation, make sure to fully read and understand the instructions. Watch tutorials and online customer reviews for a heads up on potential mistakes. Know that installing gutter guards can take anywhere from a couple of hours to a couple of days. If you’re choosing a professional installation, make sure to get several estimates and ask for references to avoid scams.
Your home is your greatest investment. Keep it fully protected for added peace of mind.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
Flooding is one of the costliest natural disasters in the United States, with the potential to impact millions of homes and communities. While FEMA and other agencies provide flood maps to help homeowners understand their risk levels, many of these maps are outdated, leading to a false sense of security for people who live in areas not designated as high-risk. Floods, however, aren’t limited to high-risk zones; even areas classified as low-risk are vulnerable under certain conditions. For these reasons, it’s vital to consider flood insurance no matter where you live.
Outdated Flood Maps and the Misleading Risk of Flooding
Flood maps are designed to inform residents and local authorities about the likelihood of flooding based on historical data, topography, and other factors. FEMA’s maps, for instance, divide areas into high, moderate, and low-risk zones, which guide flood insurance requirements and building regulations. However, some flood maps haven’t been updated for years and many don’t accurately reflect changes in land use, climate patterns, or new developments, which can significantly alter flood risks.
Changes to flood risks include:
Urban Expansion: As cities and towns expand, natural land is replaced with pavement and buildings, which leads to increased runoff and reduced soil absorption. Areas previously considered low risk might become more prone to flooding as water has fewer places to go.
Climate Change and Extreme Weather: Flood maps are based on historical data and often don’t account for the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events that can result in both droughts and unprecedented rainstorms, often within the same year. In areas affected by wildfires where vegetation loss reduces soil stability, runoff increases. Outdated flood maps may fail to reflect these climate driven impacts, leading many property owners to underestimate their exposure.
Erosion and Infrastructure Changes: Natural factors like erosion, as well as human-made infrastructure changes, can impact flood patterns over time. Rivers shift, drainage systems get updated, and dams or levees are added or removed—all of which can alter the flow of water and increase the risk in areas thought to be safe.
The Risks of Flooding in “Low-Risk” Areas
Approximately 40% of flood insurance claims in the U.S. come from properties located outside designated high-risk flood zones. Many low-risk or moderate-risk areas are prone to what is known as “flash flooding” from sudden, heavy rainfall or overflowing drainage systems that cannot keep up. Recent flooding incidents in areas far from coastlines or rivers illustrate how floodwaters can impact anyone, anywhere.
Causes of flooding in low-risk areas include:
Heavy Rainfall: Even a few hours of intense rain can lead to flash flooding, especially in areas with inadequate drainage or impermeable surfaces like concrete. Low-risk flood zones can still see significant flooding from strong, localized storms.
Snow Melt and Frozen Ground: In colder climates, rapid snowmelt or rain on frozen ground can lead to significant runoff, overwhelming waterways and drainage systems even in low-risk flood areas.
Infrastructure Failures: Overflowing sewer systems, clogged drainage, or burst water mains can also lead to localized flooding, impacting areas that flood maps don’t highlight.
Because low-risk zones are not usually required to have flood insurance, many homeowners assume they’re safe. Unfortunately, without a flood-specific insurance policy, any flood damage may need to be covered out-of-pocket, which can lead to devastating financial loss.
Why Flood Insurance Is Essential, Even Outside High-Risk Areas
Given the limitations of flood maps and the growing risk of unexpected flooding, flood insurance is a wise investment for all homeowners. Standard homeowner insurance policies typically do not cover flood damage, so without flood insurance, homeowners face the full financial impact of repairs, replacement of belongings, and sometimes even temporary housing costs.
Here are several reasons to consider flood insurance regardless of risk classification:
Affordable Coverage in Low-Risk Areas: In areas considered low- to moderate-risk, flood insurance premiums are often lower than in high-risk zones. This makes it possible to secure essential coverage without significant cost.
Financial Protection: The cost of even minor flooding can add up quickly. Carpets, drywall, and flooring may need to be replaced, and waterlogged appliances or furniture might be beyond repair. Flood insurance helps cover these costs, sparing you from paying out of pocket.
Home Value and Mortgage Requirements: While most mortgage lenders don’t require flood insurance in low-risk areas, opting for coverage can help protect your home’s value by making it easier to get it back to pre-flood condition.
Adaptability to Climate Change: As weather patterns continue to change, so does the risk of flooding. Flood insurance ensures that you are protected no matter what nature brings, providing adaptable protection in an unpredictable environment.
Taking a Proactive Approach to Flood Protection
Beyond purchasing flood insurance, you can take steps to protect your property from potential flooding:
Upgrade Drainage Systems: Make sure gutters and downspouts are clear and well-maintained to help direct rainwater away from your home.
Install Sump Pumps or Flood Barriers: For homes with basements, sump pumps can be a lifesaver in the event of heavy rain. Flood barriers can also be installed around doors and windows for additional protection.
Regular Property Checks: Monitoring your property for pooling water and ensuring nearby storm drains are clear can help reduce localized flooding.
Outdated flood maps and assumptions about risk can lead to costly surprises for homeowners. While flood insurance may seem unnecessary in low-risk areas, recent floods across unexpected locations show that no one is entirely safe from flood risks. By securing flood insurance and taking proactive protective measures, you can shield your finances and assets from unforeseen disasters – and be prepared no matter what the flood maps say.
If you’re interested in learning more or getting a flood insurance quote, the California Casualty Agency Services team can help. Call 1.877.652.2638 or visit https://www.calcas.com/flood-insurance.
Picture a living room where soft throws, flickering candles, and calming neutral tones create a haven of warmth and relaxation. That’s the idea behind Hygge, the Danish art of coziness. Whether you’re unwinding with a cup of tea or enjoying a quiet moment, a hygge-inspired space wraps you in comfort and serenity. Ready to embrace the cozy life? Let’s explore how to turn your living room into the ultimate snug retreat.
What exactly is Hygge?
Hygge (pronounced hoo-ga) is a Norwegian word that means coziness. It’s a Danish concept characterized by simplicity that embodies a feeling of comfort and contentment. At its core, hygge is about slowing down and savoring moments that bring joy and relaxation, helping to create a sense of well-being and balance in everyday life.
Elements of Hygge Design
Hygge design is all about simplicity and functionality. Here are some easy ways to incorporate hygge elements into your living room.
Space
Hygge spaces are uncluttered, light and airy spaces with distinct areas.
Clutter is stressful. The first step is to declutter your room. This gives you the blank canvas to thoughtfully consider what belongs here.
If you’re ready for a painting project, paint your walls in a light earth tone such as white, off-white or cream.
Add sheer drapes or window coverings in shades of those same colors.
Plan out cozy places within the room to gather, such as a reading corner and conversation nook.
Furnishings
When considering your furniture, look for modern, minimalistic designs.
Draw inspiration from Scandinavian furniture with clean lines, rounded edges and tapered legs.
Avoid stiff furnishings. Instead choose a chair with overstuffed arms or super soft upholstery.
Blend old and new. You can incorporate vintage furniture next to modern.
Arrange seating for conversation and interaction, rather than around the television.
Less is more but make sure you have ample seating for everyone.
Calming Neutrals
The neutral color palette used in hygge design draws inspiration from nature.
Choose calming tones such as creams, grays and browns. Think of the colors that you find in natural shades of wood.
Select patterns with similar colors that will not disrupt the harmony.
Avoid bright pops of color. Instead, go deeper with earth tones.
Everything you add should create a peaceful atmosphere.
Tactile Textiles
A neutral palette allows the textures to really stand out.
Choose materials that invite you to touch them, such as fluffy pillows, thick knits, boucle blankets, and items made of linen, cashmere, and fuzzy mohair.
Add a deep pile area rug that invites your toes to sink in.
Layer your textures. Group together throws and cushions of different textures.
Pile blankets high in a wicker basket within easy reach of your seating area.
Soft Lighting
Lighting creates the right ambiance for relaxation.
Just as you layer fabrics, you can layer lighting. Choose an overall dimmer switch for full room lighting that can be adjusted to fit your mood. Then add pockets of lighting in areas within your space.
Use a floor lap or table lamp in your reading nook. Choose light bulbs with a warm color temperature. Lamps with frosted shades offer beautiful, filtered light.
Candles provide a flickering glow. Choose flameless varieties that are safe around kids and pets, for increased fire safety.
Twinkling lights give off a softer light than your overhead light. Choose tiny white or clear lights that work with hygge décor.
Natural Elements
Hygge is inspired by a connection to nature. Bring those natural elements inside.
Add potted plants, fresh or dried flowers, for some natural inspiration.
Incorporate organic materials like wood and stone in furniture and décor.
Consider wood floors, wooden bookcases and shiplap paneling on walls.
Display artwork depicting scenes in nature or using natural items or themes.
Décor
Hygge is about minimalism. You’ll want to keep your décor simple and meaningful.
Display your treasures—the things that are meaningful to you. That includes children’s artwork, DIY crafts and family photos.
Avoid overcrowding shelves and tables with knickknacks.
Less is more when it comes to décor. Start with a blank slate and add one or two pieces to create that cozy, welcoming feel.
Your home is one of your greatest investments. Make sure to protect it – and your valuables – with the right insurance.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
When it comes to house hunting, preparation is key. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced one, the right tools can make all the difference. From capturing details to measuring spaces, here’s the gear you need to ensure a smooth and successful search for your new home.
Tape Measure
While you can use an app on your phone to measure a space, it will be less accurate than using a traditional metal tape measure. You can buy one at any hardware or big box store. Before you go house hunting, make sure to measure your furniture so you’ll know whether it will be right for the homes you are touring. For your potential new home, here are some considerations.
How wide are the door openings? Will your furniture fit through?
Measure the rooms where you will be bringing furniture. Do you have sufficient space to arrange them the way you’d like?
Measure the appliance spaces if you are bringing your own washer-dryer, refrigerator, etc. to ensure they will fit.
Camera/Phone and Notepad
You don’t want to rely on photos from the listing. Those are staged. Speak to your agent and ask if you can take photos. You also don’t want to rely on your memory. Use your phone or a notepad to take notes. You also can make quick sketches.
Jot down things you like and don’t like about each home.
Sketch out floorplans. Mark locations of windows and doors for future reference.
Take photos of the house and rooms from different angles.
Pro tip: Bring along printouts of online listings so you won’t have to write everything down.
A Level
Homes are never completely level. They settle over time. However, you shouldn’t find sloping floors, warped walls or cabinets that do not appear straight. You can buy a pocket level, a measuring tool that shows whether a surface is perfectly parallel.
These tools typically have a bubble of air suspended in a vial of liquid. When a surface is level, the bubble will be within the guidelines. There are digital and laser levels, too, which are more expensive.
Place your pocket level along the floor, on counters, or anywhere else that should be a horizontal surface.
Look for the space between the doors and the floor as they swing out. Is the gap wider at any point?
Floors that are not level could signal larger structural problems. Do your due diligence if you are buying a home in that condition.
Moisture Meter
Moisture problems aren’t always obvious and can be hidden. Bring along a moisture meter and you can measure the amount within the home. You can buy these meters at a hardware or big box home store. Choose one without pins so that you won’t put holes into a home you might not be buying.
Moisture meters usually go from 1 (dry) to 100 (wet). Anything at 17 or above is a cause for concern. It could indicate water damage and leaks.
The moisture meter must contact the surface to provide an accurate reading. There should be no visible moisture on the surface being tested.
Place your meter flat against a surface such as wood or drywall. Try it in different places as you may find varying moisture levels.
Pro Tip: Go house hunting after it rains. You’ll see where water collects around the house and in the gutters, and you may observe moisture or leaks inside.
Outlet Tester
This handy tool checks that each contact in the outlet is connected to the correct wire. It can identify several common wiring errors. You can buy a standard receptacle tester that plugs into an outlet or a non-contact voltage tester. Always be careful when performing tests on a live outlet.
Plug your tester into an outlet. Repeat for several outlets throughout the home.
A series of lights on your outlet tester will light up. Read the key code to determine what the lights mean. In some cases, an alarm will sound.
If you do get a concerning reading, that means there are likely issues with the wiring in the house.
You can use that additional anticipated expense to bring the price down, or you may choose to walk away from the potential problem.
Water Pressure Gauge
With low water pressure, showers and laundry will be longer and more frustrating. Low pressure also could signify a problem with the plumbing. Bring along a water pressure gauge to check out whether this is an issue in your potential purchase.
If the water comes from a municipal utility, you can use an outdoor hose spigot near where water enters the house. If water is from a well, use a faucet close to the tank.
For the most accurate reading, make sure water isn’t being used elsewhere in the house, such as with laundry or dishwashers.
Do not test from a hose. Make sure your pressure gauge screws directly onto the spigot or faucet and that the seal is tight.
Turn the water on all the way and read the gauge. A normal reading is from 40-80. Anything outside that range is cause for concern.
Flashlight
Even well-lit homes have dark corners and areas that aren’t easily seen. If you’re considering a purchase, you want to see everything—the good and the bad. Bring a pocket-sized flashlight or use the light on your phone to peek into dark areas.
Look under appliances, in corners, dark basements, etc.
Look for spiders, mold and any potential problem areas.
A mirror can help you peek around corners.
Pro Tip: Bring a UV flashlight and shine it on carpets to reveal places where pets have made messes.
Looking for a new home is an exciting time. Should you have questions about protecting your new investment, don’t hesitate to reach out to an agent for the right policy.
Happy house hunting!
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
Understanding the difference between your home warranty and home insurance can save you from financial headaches when things go wrong at home. Let’s break down these two types of coverage to help you make informed decisions about protecting your property.
The Difference At-A-Glance
Home warranties cover repairs and replacements for certain systems and appliances in your home.
Home insurance covers property damage to your home, other structures, or belongings in the case of unexpected events like fires, hail, wind, vandalism, or theft.
Both come with limits on what they cover. Read on to find out more.
What You Need to Know About Home Warranties
The name, home warranty, can lead you to believe that this protection covers your home. That’s not exactly the case. Home warranties cover the major appliances and systems in your house.
When you might purchase a home warranty
Home warranties are generally offered when you purchase a new appliance or system. Examples include washers, dryers, refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers, and garage door openers. You also may have a home warranty for electrical, plumbing, heating, and cooling systems. In case one of these “big ticket” purchases malfunctions, you can avoid a major out-of-pocket expense. The home warranty kicks in after the manufacturer’s warranty expires.
You can also buy a home warranty at any time directly from a home warranty company. Sometimes home warranties are offered as part of real estate transactions as an incentive to close the deal. Such warranties offer peace of mind for the future homeowner.
What your home warranty covers
Home warranties usually cover service, repair, and replacement of a product for a covered problem and everyday wear and tear.
What your home warranty doesn’t cover
Your policy might deny coverage if you have not been keeping up with maintenance. They also could deny coverage for improper installation or modifications, pest damage, or pre-existing conditions. Check your warranty policy for the details of what may be excluded from coverage.
How coverage works
You file a claim. The warranty company connects you with an approved contractor to perform the repair. A technician visits your home to diagnose the appliance or the system, and to recommend a repair or replacement. There may be a service fee associated with this visit. If the repair is simple, the technician can do it the same day. If a replacement is needed or a part must be ordered, then a follow-up appointment is scheduled.
When seeking a home warranty, be an informed consumer:
Take an inventory of your large home appliances and systems. Write down their age and condition. Record the last time they were serviced.
Estimate how much it will cost you to replace those systems. If you can afford to replace them without help, you do not need a home warranty.
Consider a home inspection. This will document any pre-existing conditions that will not be covered by a warranty.
Research coverages and payment amounts. Read the fine print. Many companies limit the amount that they will pay, and it may only be a portion of the appliance or system.
Check that the company you choose is in good standing with the Better Business Bureau.
What You Need to Know About Home Insurance
A homeowner’s policy is a “package” of coverages. It protects your home and personal property from specific events that can damage them and provides additional living expenses if you are unable to live there due to an insured loss. In addition, your homeowner’s policy covers you for lawsuits or liability claims that might otherwise be your responsibility if you accidentally injure other people or damage their property.
When you might purchase home insurance:
You will purchase home insurance when you buy your home. If you have a home mortgage, then maintaining homeowner’s insurance is generally a requirement of your loan agreement. Even if you own your home outright, it’s recommended that you protect your equity in the home by maintaining homeowner’s insurance.
What your home insurance covers and doesn’t cover:
Following are highlights of what your home insurance policy covers and doesn’t cover. For details on these and other coverages, see our blog on Home Insurance 101.
Dwelling coverage refers to the structure of your home: the roof, walls, floorboards, cabinets, and bath fixtures. A loss is covered unless it’s excluded by your policy.
Other structures insurance covers pools, fences, gazebos, sheds, etc. A loss is covered unless it’s excluded by your policy.
Personal property coverage protects your possessions, such as furniture, clothes, sports equipment, and other personal items. If your possessions are stolen, or damaged by fire/smoke or any of 16 covered “perils,” your policy will pay for them subject to your deductible.
If your home is damaged in a covered loss, it may not be livable. If that’s the case, you would need to stay somewhere else. Loss of Use, also called Additional Living Expense, covers you for any necessary increase in living expenses, such as lodging, food, and gas.
Personal Liability protects you if a claim is made or a suit brought against you for bodily injury or property damage caused by an occurrence to which coverage applies. Liability covers you at your place or anywhere in the world.
If you are not liable, but your guest was injured through his/her own fault, then Coverage F – Medical Payment to Others may cover your guest’s medical bills.
How coverage works:
You file a claim. You’ll fill out the necessary paperwork online or by email. For a homeowner’s or personal property claim, you will need to provide a Proof of Loss statement. That’s a list of items that were damaged or stolen and how much it costs to replace them. You may have to get a repair estimate and include that information. Then, you’ll wait for approval. Once the repair is authorized, you’ll be able proceed. Either you or the contractor will receive payment from the insurance company, so check with your adjuster. You will be responsible for the deductible amount, the amount that you will pay out-of-pocket before insurance kicks in.
When seeking home insurance, be an informed consumer:
Estimate how much it would cost to rebuild your home from scratch in your current location. Also ballpark the cost to replace all your personal property. This will give you a starting point as to how much insurance you will need.
Determine if you will need specialized coverage beyond a standard homeowner’s policy. For example, you may want flood or earthquake coverage for your location.
Shop around for insurance, and keep in mind, that it usually pays to buy home and auto coverage from the same company. When you bundle your home and auto insurance, you can often qualify for reduced rates, saving hundreds of dollars.
Ask about discounts. You may qualify for insurance discounts for being part of a professional association, such as groups for teachers, nurses or first responders. There are also discounts for being retired, for paying via automatic bank payments, and for paying in full upfront.
Check that the insurance company you choose is in good standing with the Better Business Bureau.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
A home safe is a fortress for your prized possessions and a sanctuary for your peace of mind. In an unpredictable world, a safe might be exactly what you need to protect your valuables. How do you know if one is right for you, and which one do you need? Read on.
Reasons to buy a home safe:
There are many reasons why people buy home safes. These include:
The reasons that you want a home safe will determine the type of safe that you need. Safes are specially designed with certain features, depending upon their use. Note that you can get safes that combine features such as a burglary safe that is also a fireproof safe. Here are some of the most common types:
Burglary Safe
This type of safe protects your cash and other valuables from being stolen. While no safe is 100% secure, a burglary safe is designed with sturdy material that can withstand attacks by hammers and cutting instruments. Burglary safes are often classified based on the tools and techniques required to break into them. Common burglary ratings include:
Residential Security Container (RSC): Suitable for residential use, providing basic protection against burglaries.
TL (Tool Resistant): Indicates resistance against common hand tools like hammers, chisels, and drills.
TRTL (Torch and Tool Resistant): Resistant to torches and more advanced tools.
TXTL (Explosive and Tool Resistant): Provides high-level protection against explosives and advanced tools.
Data Safe
A data safe is used to store electronic data such as hard drives, USB sticks, DVDs, film, tapes, and more. These products can be damaged by heat, humidity, dust, and electric/static charges. Not all safes will protect computer media and data. A data safe uses specially insulated material to keep the inner part cooler than traditional safes.
Fireproof Safe
This type of safe protects its contents from heat, fire, and smoke damage. Fireproof safes usually have a thin metal exterior, a middle core made of flame-retardant material, and an inner layer of felt or carpet. However, since the metal on a fireproof safe is typically thin, it can be easily punctured or cut with simple tools. Fireproof safes are tested to see how long they can maintain a certain internal temperature without damaging the contents. Common ratings include:
30-minute
60-minute
90-minute
2-hour
3-hour
Floor Safe
A floor safe is embedded in the floor, usually in the concrete foundation. Floor safes are great for concealing valuables. They protect well against burglaries and fire. However, in the event of a fire, floor safes often fill with water so you will want to include any contents in waterproof containers. Floor safes also can be expensive and messy to install. You need to install them in a concrete foundation which means the location might be inconvenient.
Gun Safe
A gun safe is ideal for guns and ammunition. These safes can be small enough to fit in a nightstand drawer or larger depending on how many weapons you must store. Many people keep them easily accessible but out of view, so guns are safely tucked away from children, guests, and importantly criminals. Look for a gun safe with a minimum of a 1-hour fireproof rating, a secure locking mechanism, and half-inch or thicker steel.
Jewelry Safe
While you might keep your necklaces, earrings, and bracelets in a jewelry box, you might consider a jewelry safe for higher worth items. After all, jewelry is an easy “grab and go” option for thieves and it’s relatively easy for them to resell precious gems and gold. Jewelry safes often include fabric-lined drawers for organizing your collection. You’ll want to have a burglary safe and fireproof version to keep jewelry from being damaged in the event of a fire.
Wall Safe
These safes are installed in your wall and can be concealed. They’re usually mounted between support beams. You’re limited by size and weight. You don’t want the wall safe to stick out into another wall; nor do you want it too heavy to be held up when attached to drywall and wood studs. While wall safes may be placed in convenient locations, they are less secure than a safe bolted to the floor. A wall safe can be cut out of the wall.
Waterproof Safe
A waterproof safe keeps its contents dry even when the safe is fully submerged in water. While no safe is truly waterproof, there are different water protection ratings. Look for ETL water protection ratings that identify the timing and depth, such as up to 8 inches deep for 24 hours or fully submerged for up to 72 hours. Waterproof safes can help in cases of extreme weather.
Types of Locks
When you buy a safe, not only do you have to consider the body, but the lock that secures it. Following are the different kinds of locks available.
Key – If you have the key that fits the lock, you gain access. Certain key locks allow you to change keys for times when keys are lost, stolen or if you think they’ve been duplicated.
Mechanical Combination – Similar to a combination lock that you may have had on your locker or to secure your bike, a mechanical combination lock relies on a dial or wheel that you spin in a certain sequence. The combination locks for safes can have as many as 1 million code variations, and the four-wheel variety can have 100 million code combinations.
Digital Combination – These combination locks use a keypad rather than a dial to enter your numbers. Codes may be changed as necessary. Digital combination locks rely on batteries, so make sure yours are up to date.
Dual – A dual key and combination lock gives you the option to use either method to open your safe.
Biometric – These locks work by scanning your fingerprint, palm print, face, or eye. There’s no need to remember a code or carry a key. They can be set up to store more than one user’s credentials to allow access to several people.
Safes come in many sizes.
You will usually see measurements in cubic feet. To find the interior size of a safe in cubic feet, multiply its height, width, and depth, then divide by 1728. For instance, if a safe is 20” x 15” x 20”, its interior is approximately 3.47 cubic feet. It’s wise to select a slightly larger safe than you initially think you need, as your storage needs may grow over time.
Whether or not you decide to purchase a safe, you can take steps to prevent a burglary. Finally, protect the things inside your home with personal property coverage. This will help ensure your valuables are fully covered.
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