We are still talking about storage and how to use them properly. Storage guide will help you learn what thing can and what things can’t go to storage compartments, and weather your items require regular or climate controlled compartment. If you have some belongings that are very valuable, but you are unsure how to keep them safe contact us for some additional advice.
Items That Require Climate Controlled Storage Compartments
Paintings and art collections
Extreme temperatures can make the canvas shrink, and humid environments can lead to mold and mildew growth. Art is best stored in cold and dry environments without sudden temperature changes. For moving delicate items, it is to best to hire a Man and Van to ensure its safety.
Things made from sensitive fabrics
Anything made out of fabric, including upholstered furniture, can grow mildew and develop an ugly smell in a humid setting. Fabrics last longer when they are cleaned professionally and stored at 50% humidity.
Electronic devices
Electronic devices can handle a little bit more humidity, up to 60%. But you have to be careful with high temperatures during the summer. Above 60% humidity, your electronics will stand no chance, and you will start noticing corrosion and mold.
Precious metals
Many collectors choose to store their metal coins in a self-storage unit. But metal is no more resistant to humidity than other materials, not to mention that you need to keep your items away from sudden temperature changes.
In the presence of moisture, iron will rust and copper will change its color to green (hence, why your finger turns green from copper rings), silver will darken, and lead will be completely destroyed. It’s common for storage of valuable metal based items such as collectable firearms to use dehumidifiers whilst in storage.
Paper collectibles such as stamps, photographs, and books
If you collect comics or you want to store your books and photographs, keep in mind that they might turn yellow in the winter or summer due to temperature changes. Paper items are affected by humidity as well. Ideally, it should be below 30% humidity, and your belongings should be protected from light as well.
Padded furniture, pillows, and mattresses
Mattresses and pillows are tricky because there is always the chance of retaining moisture. It’s not that difficult for a dress to dry after it gets a bit humid in the storage unit, but a thick mattress will become a home to mold in a situation like this. The humidity levels in a self-storage unit should be around 40%.
If you have some cabinets from your parents or antique items, a climate controlled environment is a must due to how wood reacts in cold and hot environments. In a colder setting, the wood will contract. In hot temperatures, it will dilate. On top of this, the moisture in the air should be controlled as well since it can lead to mold. Occasionally, the wood also needs to be treated against parasites and polished with oil to maintain its shine.
Furniture made from wood and leather
Aside from making sure leather doesn’t shrink from humidity or warp from high temperatures in the summer, you also have to make sure you let it breathe. A thin cotton sheet works best for this type of furniture. It protects it from dust accumulation and it lets the leather breathe, which prevents pungent smells.
Wine
Perhaps one of the trickiest items to store, wines need low light, moderate humidity, and a constant temperature.
You may be tempted to store your wines in a dry environment, but it’s best to keep the humidity between 40% and 70 %. Environments that are too dry will damage the quality of the wine. They will also make the seals harden and the bottles difficult to open.
On the other hand, too much moisture in the air will change the color of the wine and accelerate the aging process. This will ruin its flavor.
Do I Need To Store All My Valuables In Climate Controlled Storage Units?
This only depends on what kind of items you plan on storing. Some things can be kept in a regular storage no matter the season. Keep in mind that the safest time for storing items is spring or the fall, before extremely hot or cold weather arrives. But unfortunately, weather is rarely predictable so there can be exceptionally hot days during the spring or very cold and rainy days in the middle of September.
When you have any doubts the best thing you should do is call us and let us help you. As we already said some items are not allowed to be kept in the storage since they pose a danger for all your belongings, you, and all the people who will handle that cargo. To avoid make any moving mistakes, please make sure you contact us via email or on this link.
