The Bolting Down or Anchoring Down of Safes or Steel Security Containers

Posted on by safeguard_admin
the bolting down or anchoring down of security safes or steel security containers
10 Jun

In this blog we give some anchoring down or bolting down safe guidelines. As not all conditions and applications can be covered, we have only mentioned the most common installation types. For the purpose of the blog we have used the CMI Safe product range as typical types of safes used which are the majority of applications.

Timber Floors

Applies to tongue & groove natural timber flooring 

Use a 12mm (internal dimension) flat washer with these anchors. A 6mm pilot hole is required to fit these anchors. Alternatively where underfloor access is available, especially with composite timber floor materials, i.e flat sheet particle board flooring, the use of a steel plate under the floor to bolt to this is suggested for maximum fixing.

Concrete Floors

Applies to concrete flooring

Brick Walls

Double brick walls are the preferred surface.

Single brick walls are not recommended for use with anchors in case damage occurs on the other side from drilling  

Different Types of Anchoring Holes

There are different types of anchoring holes that can be found within various safes. We have listed below some types of anchoring holes commonly found within security safes.

Floor Safe Installation to Concrete Floor

Here are some handy tips to consider if you are installing an in-floor safe. 

  • Remember in-floor safes are not waterproof, so in damp situations the concrete should contain a waterproofing material such as SILASEC or YURITE. These are commonly available from hardware stores. 
  • Check the area for dampness as you may need to add a waterproofing chemical agent to the concert to avoid dampness within the in floor safe.
  • Inspect the site in advance to any preparation of installation to make sure there’s no cables or pipes etc that can interfere with the installing of the in floor safe. 
  • This being said, try to avoid locations that may be subject to water being frequently on the floor that may enter the in floor safe, so sites such as laundries, bathrooms and garages are considered no go areas.
  • A minimum of a 100mm overall concrete around and under the floor safe is preferable if possible and remove the door of the in-floor safe if possible for ease of fitting.
  • Do not allow concrete or water to come in contact with the locking mechanism during the installation, especially if it’s an electronic digital lock as this may cause a malfunction of the lock which may cause the lock failing to open at a later date, causing you to be locked out of your own floor safe.
  • After installing the In-Floor safe, thoroughly dry any moisture from within the floor safe and allow the floor safe to dry for a minimum of 48 hours during this time of the drying period. You must leave the floor safes door open or out of the in floor safe to avoid any type of condensation reaction and ensure a professional and successful installation of your underground safe.
  • When the drying period has finished, clean the inside and the top of the floor safe of any grit or sand etc prior to replacing or closing the safe door. This will ensure the door opens and locks correctly. 
  • Always remember if an in floor safe is left for long periods of time without it being opened, the lack of circulation within the floor safe may result in a musty environment for the items stored inside the in floor safe.
  • Please check the lock on the floor safe is operating correctly before closing and locking the door of the safe.

Successful anchoring relies on the individual installer’s evaluation of the anchoring surface, the use of the appropriate anchor, and the correct implementation of the manufacturer’s fitting instructions. In order to ensure the highest protection by having your safe professionally delivered and installed, safes should be anchored or cemented into the floor or wall to prevent removal. Safeguard Safes can accurately and efficiently install safes into concrete, carpet, timber or tiled floors as well as plastered walls. Just give us a call on 1300 764 971 to discuss your needs with a professional safe expert.

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