How To Choose The Right Type Of Storage Unit

7 October 2016
 Categories: , Blog

Share

When it comes to storage units, you have several options. These include climate control, indoor secured units, and outdoor units with drive-up access. The right unit depends on the types of items you are storing along with how long you plan to store them for. The following guide can help you decide which storage options are best for you.

Are you storing large or unwieldy items?

If the bulk of your storage consists of durable items such as mattress and non-leather sofas that are difficult to move but not especially prone to temperature damage, then a drive-up unit may be an easier option. In fact, you can generally store any type of furniture safely in a standard drive-up unit if it is only for a month or two. This makes it much easier to load and unload these hard-to-move pieces.

Do you have electronics to store?

Electronics can be easily ruined by moisture or extreme temperatures, especially heat. This includes televisions, computers, stereo and theater systems, and small appliances and personal electronics. The best place to store these are the climate controlled indoor storage units. Not only do these units provide a consistent temperature and humidity control, they also are often more secure than drive-up units so that your electronics are safer from theft.

Will you be storing leather or fur items?

Leather furniture and clothing, as well as furs, can become dry and brittle in a hot storage unit. A climate-controlled unit prevents temperature damage while also protecting the items from moisture. Leather and furs can also attract pests, which feed on the items. Indoor units may be better treated to help prevent these pests as well, but you will still want to store the items in pest-resistant boxes or wrappings.

Is moisture a concern?

This isn't about flooding necessarily, but relative humidity. If you live in an area with high humidity and will be storing items that can easily be damaged by moisture, then a climate controlled unit with humidity controls is a must. Examples of susceptible items include linens and clothing, books, papers, and wood items. If you are only storing these items for a very short period or during a period of low humidity, such as winter, you may be able to skip climate control and instead package the items in plastic bags or bins for temporary protection.

For more help in choosing the right type of unit, contact a storage facility like http://www.northstarministorage.com in your area.