5 Valuable Home Materials Thieves Target: How to Protect Your Property

Protect Your Home: Understanding the Appeal of Valuable Materials

As scrap metal prices surge, homeowners must be vigilant about the materials on their properties that might attract thieves. While many of us invest in security systems to protect the interior of our homes, valuable exterior components can also become targets for opportunistic criminals. This article explores some of the most sought-after materials around your home and the steps you can take to safeguard them.

A Closer Look at Copper Guttering: A Thief's Delight

Copper guttering can enhance the aesthetics of a home while also serving essential functions. However, it has increasingly become a prime target for thieves due to its high resale value. According to crime prevention expert Dr. Ben Stickle, the price of copper has skyrocketed by nearly 500 percent in the past two decades, leading to a surge in thefts. In March 2025, its price per pound exceeded $5, making even a simple downspout quite lucrative for thieves.

To keep your copper installations safe, consider replacing accessible parts with less valuable materials. Thieves generally look for the easiest targets, and making it inconvenient to access your copper elements can deter them. Dr. Stickle advises homeowners to be mindful of their surroundings and consider the sightlines around their property.

Air Conditioning Units: More Than Just Comfort

Air conditioning units serve as a vital tool for maintaining comfort, especially during hot summer months. However, these systems, particularly those with copper components, are increasingly being stripped for parts. Thieves may target these external units for quick payouts and might even impersonate service professionals to gain access.

To safeguard your air conditioning unit, think about elevating it to a more secure position or implementing locks that hinder quick removal. With the right precautions, such as enhancing visibility with light fixtures or landscaping that allows for natural monitoring, you can significantly reduce your risk of theft.

The Hidden Threat of Aluminum Siding Theft

While aluminum siding might not hold the same value as copper, its lightweight nature makes it appealing for thieves, especially from homes that are less visible or unoccupied. Dr. Stickle notes that aluminum siding thefts are frequent in less-monitored areas. Surveillance cameras and alarms often don’t deter determined thieves.

If you have aluminum siding, integrating additional security measures such as smart home alerts that notify you of unusual activity can contribute to overall safety. Having a well-lit exterior and keeping your property neat and visibly monitored dissuades would-be criminals.

Conclusion: Be Proactive About Security

As property crimes shift to take advantage of fluctuating market values, it’s important to stay ahead of potential threats. By being informed about what materials in and around your home could attract thieves, homeowners can implement smarter strategies for home security. It’s not just about protecting against intrusions anymore; it’s also about safeguarding valuable outdoor materials.

For homeowners, protecting your most valuable materials means being proactive and aware. Don’t allow your exterior elements to fall victim to opportunistic thieves—taking small steps today can save you larger issues tomorrow.