I honestly thought that breaking some of the items was already a thing for bashing chests. How about a compromise? Durability remains but only on weapons, and weapons take damage only when used to break things open. The cost of bashing open chests is still held strong without the tedium of repairs for those who have a thief or use other means to get around locks.
Alternatively, just make it so bashing destroys some of the contents. XD
