February Freeze – Outdoor Storage Tips for When the Weather Changes
A lot of people may consider climate-controlled storage during the hot and humid summer months but it’s not something we generally think about it when it’s cold outside. This is still an issue that needs to be tended to in order to ensure the safety and preservation of your belongings. Just because it’s winter doesn’t necessarily mean certain items will do well in a non-climate-controlled unit. It’s true that moisture and humidity are lower in the winter months but generally in Houston the humidity level is never completely down and the temperatures do tend to fluctuate quite a bit.
Below are some items that you will want to check on during the colder months and consider moving into a climate-controlled unit to avoid damage:
- Electronics: Computers, stereos, audio equipment, and cameras should not be exposed to overly cold environments.
- Collectibles: Certain collectibles may need to be stored in specific temperature ranges.
- Fine silks and other fabrics: Climate-controlled storage keeps fabrics at their best.
- Important documents and books: Paper can yellow and degrade in varying temperatures.
- Furniture: Wood can expand, warp, crack and/or break in varying temperatures.
- Expensive or antique furniture is best kept in a climate-controlled environment.
- Certain valuables – artwork, pianos and furs to name a few – require stringent climate conditions and are not suitable for climate control storage units.
Tip: Use cotton or wool covers – vinyl or plastic tarps can cause damage to your items and lock in moisture. Moving blankets are a better solution for long-term storage.
Finally, make sure that any type of motor vehicle is winterized before storing. Follow the general guidelines for winterizing your vehicle to ensure that it is in top shape when you go to start it up again.
