Those fake rocks are basically invitations for trouble—might as well leave a neon sign. I’ve had better luck with those magnetic boxes tucked up under metal railings, but even then, I’m paranoid about someone finding it. Anyone tried those combo lockboxes? Curious if they actually hold up outside, especially in the rain. The weatherproof claims always seem a bit... optimistic.
Anyone tried those combo lockboxes? Curious if they actually hold up outside, especially in the rain. The weatherproof claims always seem a bit... optimistic.
I hear you on the fake rocks—those things are basically a joke at this point. I’ve used a combo lockbox for a couple years now, and honestly, it’s held up better than I expected. Mine’s under a little awning, so it doesn’t get hammered by rain, but it’s still out in the elements. The rubber cover is starting to crack, but the lock itself hasn’t rusted or anything. I do spray it with WD-40 every few months, just in case.
That said, I’m still not convinced any of these are truly “weatherproof” long-term, especially if you’re in a place with harsh winters or crazy humidity. I’m curious—has anyone tried those smart lockboxes that use an app instead of a combo? Wondering if they’re worth the extra cash or just another thing to break down the line.
I totally get the skepticism about “weatherproof” claims—manufacturers love to stretch that word. Here’s what I’ve noticed: combo lockboxes do okay if you’re proactive, but they just aren’t made for years of direct exposure. If you want something that actually lasts outside, here’s what works best in my experience:
1. Pick a spot with some cover—under an awning or porch roof is ideal.
2. Go for a lockbox with a metal body, not plastic. The plastic ones crack fast.
3. Use a silicone spray instead of WD-40 if you’re in a really wet climate. It doesn’t wash off as easily.
4. Check the seal on the rubber cover every few months. Once it starts cracking, water gets in and rust follows.
As for smart lockboxes… mixed feelings. They’re convenient, but battery issues and app glitches can be a headache. I’ve seen them work great for clients who are tech-savvy and don’t mind updating firmware, but if you just want something simple, a good old combo box (with some maintenance) still wins for me.
As for smart lockboxes… mixed feelings. They’re convenient, but battery issues and app glitches can be a headache.
Had a similar experience last fall. Installed a smart lockbox for a client—looked great on paper, but after the first heavy rain, the battery died in under two weeks. Turns out, the rubber seal wasn’t seated right from the factory. Ended up drilling a tiny drain hole at the bottom to let moisture out. Not ideal, but it worked. For my own place, I still stick with a metal combo box under the porch. Less fuss, just needs a shot of silicone spray every now and then.
Had a similar situation with a solar-powered lockbox I tried last summer—thought I was being clever and eco-friendly, but it just couldn’t keep up on cloudy days. Ended up having to break out the old-school key backup anyway. Sometimes, low-tech really is less stressful...
