When packing your self-storage unit it is important to keep the possibility of property damage in mind. After all, people do not typically place items into storage unless they plan to use these items again in the future. If these items are damaged before they can be removed from the storage unit, you will have defeated the entire purpose of placing the items into storage in the first place. Thankfully, there are a few tips that you can use to help ensure your items are not damaged while in storage.
Tip #1: Keep Items Off Floors And Walls When Possible
The floors and walls of your self-storage unit are bound to experience fluctuating temperatures throughout the year. These surfaces are also prone to changes in moisture content. Consequently, items that are placed directly on the floor or up against a wall will have a better chance of being damaged. This can be avoided by placing wood pallets on the floor of your storage unit to help lift items off the floor and to keep air circulating around the unit. You will also want to place plastic sheeting or another barrier between the wall and any items that are stored around the edge of your storage unit.
Tip #2: Use Plastic Storage Bins Rather Than Cardboard Boxes
Cardboard boxes can pose a whole host of issues when it comes to protecting stored items from damage. For instance, these boxes will often give way under the weight of other boxes or items stored on top of them. This can cause the items in the box to break as well. Cardboard boxes can also suffer moisture damage and be easily infiltrated by pests. Choosing to use plastic storage bins will help to eliminate these issues and ultimately keep your stored items protected from a variety of different types of damage.
Tip #3: Do Not Forget About The Effects Of Gravity
Gravity can definitely affect your stored belongings over the course of time and cause irreversible damage. For instance, if you store a mattress on its side, the filling in the mattress will begin to shift to one side over time as a result of gravity. In order to prevent this type of damage, you will want to store all mattresses lying flat rather than on their side. This type of gravity-related damage can also occur with chairs, sofas, and other items that contain a loose filling which can shift over time.
For more information, contact a storage company like Gastley's Moving & Storage.
Share20 April 2022
While I lived in a small town my entire life, in my early 20s I decided to move to a big bustling city. Since the cost of living was so low in my hometown, I was able to afford a rental home. However, with my income, I realized I could only afford a studio apartment in my new city. I did not want to get rid of all of my furniture and belongings that would not fit into my new small apartment, especially my prized collection of antique dolls! I was worried my dolls would not fare well in storage, but I learned that any collectible can be kept in great condition when prepared properly for storage and kept in the right unit. I decided to share what I have learned about choosing storage units and keeping collectibles in great condition while in storage on my new blog!