Despite the name, prefab “guard shacks” are used in so many more ways than just by business security guards. These prefabricated structures are incredibly versatile, and they’re used just about anywhere you need to funnel people through a queue, shelter an outdoor worker, or even sell merchandise.
Read on for 5 uses for prefabricated guard shacks that you might have never considered.
First off: what exactly are prefabricated guard shacks?
We imagine most people are probably unfamiliar with prefab structures and how they work, so here’s a quick rundown.
Prefabricated guard shacks are ready-made structures made from tough, durable materials that are weather-resistant and portable. The beauty of prefab construction is that you can outfit it with virtually any interior you want, depending on your needs and budget. Common additions to prefab guard shacks include:
- Countertops
- Air conditioning/heating
- Electric panels and wiring
- Insulation
- High-security features, like locks and heavy-duty doors
The versatile options you have with prefab structures mean you can accomplish virtually anything — like the following creative uses.
Use #1: Ticket Stands
One of the most common uses of prefabricated guard shacks that you might never have realized is as a ticket stand. If you’ve been anywhere like a carnival, stadium, music festival, or any other temporary outdoor event, you’ve almost certainly seen a prefab guard shack.
The security features of prefab guard shacks are essential for these locations. Huge crowds trying to enter a festival or other large event can be rowdy, difficult, and sometimes aggressive. Attendants can also be dealing with a large amount of money, making these small outdoor structures appealing to thieves.
To protect attendants while also ensuring they have easy access to customers to sell tickets, the military-standard strength of a prefab guard shack is perfect.
Use #2: Theme Park Kiosks
Theme park layouts change constantly, such as during new ride construction, new theming, or changes for foot traffic optimization. A flexible, up-to-date park makes portability ideal. Prefab structures can be assembled and disassembled easily, meaning that the theme park managers can buy the structure once and change its design and purpose innumerable times. Outdoor concession stands and information booths made from prefabricated structures are weather-resistant, portable, and can be styled in an infinite number of ways to suit the park’s design.
You’ll see prefab shacks being used in theme parks as:
- Information booths
- Concession stands
- Ticket booths
- Rest areas for employees
- Security offices
- Souvenir stalls
Use #3: Equipment Enclosures for Construction Sites
On a construction site, where you’re working with heavy, expensive equipment and your workers are constantly on-the-go, you need a safe place for storage in addition to the safety precautions taken for employees.
Prefab guard shacks are frequently used in the construction industry as a secure, portable storage unit for tools and equipment. They’re tough, and they can even be built bullet-resistant, making them one of the best options to protect expensive materials.
As a bonus use for construction sites, depending on size, they can also double as rest locations for workers. If no structures are usable on-site and it’s a scorching hot day, prefab guard shacks can be fitted with HVAC air conditioning units as a great place for workers to take a break.
Use #4: Toll Booths
Believe it or not, most toll booths you’ve been stopped at are likely made from prefabricated guard shacks.
Prefabricated booths can easily be styled such that they sit in the perfect position to accept money from all types of vehicles. They provide important protection from the elements so attendants can use them in any type of weather. They can also be crafted from such strong and durable materials that no car could injure an attendant if they approach at too high of a speed. Prefab toll booths are a simple, effective, and inexpensive solution governments employ for toll booths all the time.
Use #5: ATM Enclosures
Prefab structures are a great way to give ATM users privacy as well as keep them protected from the elements. Using a prefab guard shack for an ATM is a cost-effective way to entice people to use an ATM in inclement weather, especially if the structure is fitted with cooling or heating.
You may have seen prefab structures for ATMs already without realizing it. They’re often set up in temporary locations like fairgrounds, farmer’s markets, and town events, but they can also be placed permanently in places like a grocery store parking lot. Once you start looking for prefab guard shacks, you’ll see them everywhere.
Try A Prefab Guard Shack For All Of The Above & More
Now that we’ve analyzed the numerous purposes a prefabricated guard shack can offer, you’re probably even more surprised at how misleading the name is: these simple structures go far beyond just acting as a shack for guards!
Endless design options and personalization means you can turn a prefab booth into just about anything you imagine. Look into prefab booths for any of your commercial needs!
