How To Vandal-Proof Your Shelters

November 29, 2024

Shelters are found in most places, regardless of whether they are bus, smoking or vehicle protection ones. They are a very popular product that sometimes needs to be installed in locations where the risks of damage and vandalism are high. By nature, these structures are situated outdoors, which makes them more challenging to protect and preserve. This is why vandal-proofing a shelter is so essential to ensure it stays in good condition and continues serving its purpose over time. Here are some effective strategies for enhancing a shelter’s resistance to vandalism:

Choose Durable, Vandal-Resistant Materials

We might start sounding repetitive here, but prevention is better than cure. Choosing your shelter well will save you a lot of problems and money in the future.

When selecting the model, it is best to opt for robust materials like galvanised and/ or powder-coated steel, which are tough and resistant to damage. Powder coating adds an extra layer of protection against scratches and graffiti, while galvanised metal is an excellent base that can withstand a lot of pressure. Good examples specifically designed for high-risk areas are our Kent Anti-Vandal Bus Shelter and our Ruby Anti-Vandal Smoking Shelter. They are both designed to be heavy-duty with back and side panels that can be made of galvanised and powder-coated steel sheets or steel mesh, which are harder to damage or spray paint.

Our shelters, including the examples above, use polycarbonate instead of glass for glass-like surfaces. Polycarbonate is shatter-resistant, making it less vulnerable to breakage from vandalism or accidental impacts.

Use Tamper-Resistant Fixtures

When we say “use”, we mean “choose”, as this is another design and manufacturing element that would set a good vandal-proof shelter apart. When producing our shelters, we know we need to think about more than just the steel panels, as they’re not the only part of a shelter that gets targeted in vandal attacks.

This is why we make sure that all our panels, seats, and other parts are secured with tamper-resistant bolts or screws that are difficult to remove. We also pay extra attention to strengthening joints and connections to minimise the risk of parts being pried off or damaged, which is especially useful in high-traffic and public areas.

Use Smart Design Elements

We sometimes incorporate elements like rounded edges or curved anti-climb roofs to further discourage vandalism. Rounded or smooth surfaces make it harder for vandals to attach stickers or apply graffiti effectively. An example is our Prestige Motorbike Shelter, which has an anti-climb roof and back and side frames with clear anti-vandal polycarbonate panels.

We generally strive for less cluttered structures, which can reduce potential hiding spots for trash, stickers, or other debris vandals might use.

Keep Visibility in Mind

As well as a less cluttered design for high-risk areas, we also advise going for more open-sight lines and ensuring the shelter has clear visibility on all sides. Avoid secluded or enclosed designs that allow vandals to operate out of view.

To discourage vandal behaviour, you can also install bright, energy-efficient lighting, especially in areas that are less monitored or during night hours. Bright lighting makes the area less appealing for unauthorised activities at night.

Overall, if possible, you should also always encourage natural surveillance by selecting an optimal location where there is some natural foot traffic and community presence. Placing the shelter closer to busy roads, where there is a regular flow of people from the local community, and closer to existing CCTV coverage should discourage vandalism.

Install Security Cameras and Signage

To curb the issue, you can also consider installing surveillance cameras yourself. A visible camera setup can act as a strong deterrent, as vandals are less likely to act if they know they are being recorded. To add a psychological deterrent by reminding potential vandals that they are being watched, you can also use signage to indicate that the area is under surveillance.

Use Anti-Graffiti Coatings

Once installed, you can cover the shelter in an anti-graffiti coating to further prevent graffiti, stickers, and other forms of vandalism. This coating creates a protective barrier that prevents paint, markers, stickers, and adhesives from bonding permanently to the surface. It also makes it easier to remove paint or markers once they are there without the need for harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning methods.

These clear anti-graffiti coatings also protect surfaces from repeated cleaning damage, maintaining the material’s integrity and appearance over time. They can be applied to metal, glass, and even plastic surfaces, providing an easy-to-clean layer.

Doing Regular Maintenance

Lastly, one of the best strategies to discourage vandalism is to keep your shelter in good condition and look like someone is looking after it. Regular shelter inspections for signs of damage or vandalism and promptly repairing small issues can prevent further deterioration and discourage vandals who see it as a maintained space.

Graffiti and stickers, just like damage, should be removed immediately as they make a space look abandoned. Vandalism tends to attract further vandalism, so keeping the shelter clean helps maintain a deterrent effect.

Vandal-proofing your shelters is not just about addressing damage after it occurs—it’s about proactive measures to ensure these essential structures remain functional, safe, and visually appealing over time. By investing in durable materials, smart design features, and protective coatings and combining these with effective surveillance and maintenance practices, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your shelters while reducing ongoing repair costs.

A well-maintained, vandal-resistant shelter serves its purpose better and creates a sense of pride and security in the community. By implementing these strategies, you can balance practical protection and a welcoming, usable space for everyone.


Shelter Store Team

Shelter Store is the UK's leading supplier of smoking shelters, canopies, walkways and street furniture. Follow us on LinkedIn.