Rexburg, Idaho, is known for its harsh winters, with frigid temperatures, heavy snowfall, and icy conditions that can impact your stored belongings. As the cold season approaches, it's crucial to take proactive measures to protect your items. This comprehensive step-by-step guide will help you prepare your self-storage unit for the winter months, keeping your belongings safe and secure with Sage Storage.
Before you start your winter preparations, review the types of items you have in storage and whether they require special attention. Identifying sensitive items that need extra care will help you organize your efforts efficiently.
Electronics (TVs, computers, etc.)
Wooden furniture
Upholstered items
Books and papers
Holiday decorations
Understanding what’s in your unit will allow you to take the necessary precautions to protect these items from cold, dampness, and potential damage.
In the absence of climate control, wrapping and insulating your items becomes even more important to safeguard against the cold.
Use thick blankets or moving pads to cover items like furniture, electronics, and other valuables.
Wrap electronics in bubble wrap and then place them in sturdy boxes. Be sure to seal the boxes well with packing tape to keep out moisture.
Cover wooden and fabric furniture with breathable sheets to allow air circulation while preventing direct exposure to cold air. Avoid using plastic directly on these items, as it can trap moisture and cause damage.
Heavy snowfall in Rexburg can potentially lead to melting snow and water buildup, posing a risk to your stored items. Even though Sage Storage ensures water-tight units, elevating your items adds an extra layer of protection.
Use pallets, wooden boards, or shelving units to raise your boxes and furniture off the ground. This helps prevent damage in case of unexpected water seepage.
Place heavy-duty plastic sheets or tarps on the ground beneath pallets for added moisture protection.
During the winter months, you may need access to certain items like holiday decorations, cold-weather gear, or winter clothing. Organizing your unit will make it easier to retrieve these items quickly.
Store frequently needed items toward the front of your unit.
Clearly label all boxes with their contents to make searching simpler.
Create a walkway down the center of the unit to access items in the back without having to move everything.
Cold temperatures can drive rodents and pests indoors, making storage units more susceptible to infestations. Protecting your items from unwanted guests is essential.
Do not store food, scented items, or organic materials, as these can attract pests.
Use rodent repellents like mothballs, dryer sheets, or natural deterrents such as peppermint oil-soaked cotton balls placed in corners of the unit.
Regularly inspect your unit for signs of pests like droppings, chewed items, or nesting materials.
Moisture can be a significant concern during the winter, especially with the possibility of snow melt or condensation inside the unit.
Place moisture absorbers or charcoal deodorizers inside the unit to reduce humidity and prevent mold and mildew.
Use moisture-resistant containers for items like clothing, linens, and papers to provide additional protection.
Winter brings shorter days and longer nights, making security a top priority. Sage Storage is equipped with secure facilities, but there are still steps you can take to enhance the safety of your belongings.
Invest in a heavy-duty, weather-resistant lock. Disc locks and cylinder locks are especially effective against tampering.
Inspect your unit for proper sealing, ensuring the door closes tightly and there are no gaps where moisture or pests could enter.
Even with thorough preparation, unexpected incidents can occur. Review your storage insurance policy to ensure it covers potential winter-related risks, such as water damage from leaks or flooding.
Preparing your self-storage unit for winter in Rexburg involves proactive measures to protect your belongings from cold temperatures, moisture, and pests. By following these steps, you can keep your items safe and secure all winter long. For more storage tips or information about unit availability, contact Sage Storage today.
