The various features of a wall safe are specifically designed to protect valuables including jewelry important documents and cash. By installing a safe in the house homeowners can feel confident that their valuable personal possessions will be safe from theft fire and water damage.

A traditional wall safe is made out of steel and is the ideal size to fit comfortably between two studs. With most interior wall cavities only 3.5 inches deep these safes usually are quite shallow. There are deeper ones available but installation will have to be next to a garage or closet for there to be enough room to accommodate the extra depth. It is possible to hide a safe behind a framed photograph or piece of art. Many safes will have shelves that can be adjusted according to need.

Homeowners can choose between safes with key locks or those that open with a combination code. The door should be drill proof and the safe should be fire rated. Ceramic fiber insulation is often used in the walls and door to keep the interior from overheating if there is a fire. Some will have seals that are designed to swell up when they get hot. This will protect the contents from the water damage that often occurs while the fire is being extinguished. Bolts and hinges should be heavy duty and able to withstand high temperatures as well as resist tampering.

The standard waterproof fireproof safe rated by Underwriters Laboratories to withstand fire and water damage from a minimum of one hour up to a maximum of four hours. The cost of the safe and the amount of protection increases as the fire rating increases. Consumers should also think about burglar proof ratings. A quality wall safe can easily replace any safety deposit box. In addition to keeping valuables safe they will be convenient and easy to access at any time.