Heavy rainfall, fleeting snow, blazing heat, and rising dampness are hard on items stored outdoors. Failing to protect your outdoor storage from the degrading effects of harsh environmental exposure can damage or destroy them. Proper weatherproofing keeps your storage in good condition. Here are some suggestions for weatherproofing your outdoor storage unit.
Weatherproofing Outdoor Storage Unit: Tips for Protecting Your Belongings
Choosing the Right Storage Unit
Choose a storage unit that can withstand the harshest weather conditions. Durable materials can include:
- High-quality plastic like ABS
- Metals like aluminum and wrought iron
- Treated wood
These materials don’t accommodate water penetration, are highly resistant to UV radiation, and weather extreme temperatures. Besides, strengthen the frame and roof and seal the doors to protect your belongings from rain, snow, and wind.
Elevate the Storage Unit
Placing your storage unit on the ground exposes it to moisture and pest intrusion. Place it on top of concrete blocks or a wooden platform. Use the vertical space to create a barrier between the ground and the floor. This strategy prevents water intrusion during the rainy season and reduces the chances of rusting, corrosion, or decay.
Seal Gaps and Cracks When Weatherproofing Your Outdoor Storage Unit
Look for gaps, cracks, and openings in your storage unit acting as entry points for water, dust, and pests. Seal these weak points with weatherstripping or caulk. Seal doors and windows since these are common intrusion points for moisture and insects when they’re looking to invade your storage space. Sealing off gaps helps maintain a consistent temperature within your unit and protects sensitive items from climate fluctuations.
Lay a Vapor Barrier
A vapor barrier prevents moisture from destroying your stored items. Lay a vapor barrier on the floor of the storage unit to block rising ground moisture.
This tip is great for anyone storing items in humid areas, or on a concrete slab. This will absorb and displace moisture.
Use Watertight Containers
Store your items in plastic waterproof containers with tight-fitting lids. They will remain dry and keep your belongings free from infestation by unwanted pests.
Be sure to label your containers or use clear bins to easily identify what is inside. This will prevent you from digging through everything when you need something. Place collectibles and valuable goods in vacuum-sealed, airtight bags to ward off air and moisture.
Use Shelving Units and Pallets When Weatherproofing Your Storage Unit
Get your stuff off the floor to avoid potential water damage. To eliminate the risk of flood damage, use shelving storage solutions for smaller items. Wooden pallets work well for larger items.
This strategy saves your stuff from flood damage and allows air to move around the unit, reducing the chance of finding mold and mildew.
UV Damage Protection
Items stored directly near windows or translucent panes in the unit may experience UV damage, such as fading. Protect items with UV-resistant tarps and cover them from direct exposure to sunlight. You can also fit a UV tint coating to the window glass. This will reduce UV ray intensity and the thermal heating effect of the glass or plastic.
Weatherproofing Your Outdoor Storage Unit By Keeping Humidity Levels Under Control
Excess humidity creates the perfect breeding ground for mold, mildew, and rust. To control humidity in your storage unit, use products like silica gel packs or desiccants to absorb moisture.
These products keep the air dry and preserve your storage from exposure to excess moisture. For larger units, an electric dehumidifier with an auto-drain feature is worth considering for continuous moisture control.
Regular Maintenance and Inspections
Regular maintenance and inspections will keep your storage unit watertight and in good working condition. Look out for signs of deterioration. This includes:
- Rust
- Rot
- Decay
- Water penetration
- Signs of wear and tear
Cleaning the container from time to time removes dust and dirt that has collected over time. If you find mold during your inspection, take appropriate action to remove it immediately.
Ventilation
This strategy gives you more control over keeping moisture from accumulating inside your storage unit while improving and maintaining air quality.
Install vents or windows that let in air to improve circulation. Proper ventilation keeps humidity down and prevents mold growth. You can also hermetically seal the unit, meaning, you can make the unit airtight.
Use a small fan and ventilation system to circulate air and keep the interior dry.
Use Weather-Resistant Locks and Hardware
Ensure that the locks and all hardware installed on the unit are weather-resistant. They should be high-quality and able to withstand extreme weather conditions.
Stainless steel or brass locks won’t rust or corrode, and provide you with maximum service life and ongoing protection for your storage unit.
Clark Storage – Best and Most Secured Storage Units in the Area
Our family business objective is to provide you with the best service and facilities in a secure location. As you get to know our facilities, you will note they were selected for your ease of access, location, and security. Please let us know how we can continue to improve your storage needs and fulfill your high expectations. We have storage units in Council Bluffs, Glenwood, and Pacific Junction. Contact us today. We are also offering a Move-In Referral Program, click here for more information.
