You need a safe place to store your valuables, and safe-deposit boxes aren't always accessible. It's easy to install a wall safe in your home. Materials:
Wall safe (make sure it will fit between your wall studs)
Measuring tape
Drill, with Phillips bit and drill bit
2" screws
Torpedo level
Hammer
Stud sensor
Keyhole drywall saw
Handsaw
Safety glasses
- Remove any furniture and pictures from the area.
- Use a stud sensor to find the two studs you plan to place the safe between. Mark the studs.
- Mark a level line to represent the top of the safe (figure A).
- Make a template of the back of the wall safe if one wasn't provided. Line up the top of the template with your level line, and trace around the perimeter.
- Turn off the circuit breaker for nearby electrical outlets. Cut a small hole, and feel behind the wall to make sure no plumbing equipment or electrical wires are behind it (figure B).
- Use a keyhole saw to punch a hole just outside the cut line on the wall, and cut out the opening for the safe. Hold the saw at an angle to avoid cutting into the wall behind the one you're cutting (figure C). To make the job easier, start at the bottom, cut the two sides, and finish by cutting the top line. After cutting, remove the wall piece.
- Install support blocks behind the wallboard (figure D). First, measure the distance between the two studs, and cut two 2" by 4" wood blocks to size. Drill pilot holes into the ends of the blocks, and place the blocks between the studs so that they're completely covered by the drywall. Secure the blocks to the studs with screws, and screw the drywall to the support blocks.
- Place the safe into the opening (figure E). Drill pilot holes into the studs from inside the safe (figure F), and secure the safe, using 2" screws.
- Replace the furniture, and hang a picture in front of the safe.
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