A Self-Storage Unit Keeps Bikes, Kayaks, And Other Warm-Season Equipment Safe
If you have large equipment, such as bikes and kayaks, that you need to store over the winter, or if you're a snowbird and need to store the equipment over the summer, consider renting a self-storage unit. Bikes and kayaks are expensive, and if they're not stored properly, they can be harmed. Here's why a self-storage unit is a good option for storing your seasonal equipment and tips for using your unit.
A Self-Storage Unit Provides Protection
You don't want to leave bikes or kayaks outside in the sun for weeks on end. They should be stored indoors where they won't get wet or damaged by the sun. Plus, a self-storage unit keeps your equipment safe from vandals.
It's ideal if you rent a climate-controlled unit, but the most important thing is to keep the equipment inside. Since you probably don't have room to store bikes and kayaks indoors at your house, and you may not want them taking up space in your garage, a storage unit is a good choice.
The Bikes And Other Equipment Should Be Dry
Before you take bikes, kayaks, and other belongings to the storage unit, clean them and make sure they are completely dry. You can leave the kayaks and bikes in the sun for a few hours just to make sure there is no moisture on them. Otherwise, your things may be moldy when you go back for them.
You may also want to perform maintenance on your equipment if needed so you don't have to worry about rust or tires going flat. Your things should be in good shape going in the storage unit so they'll be in good shape and ready to go when you take them out.
Place Things On Stands When You Can
You'll need to decide on the size of your storage unit. You might want a small one to save money, but then you may need to store the kayaks on their ends. The ideal way to store kayaks is with the hull facing up.
You won't be able to nail anything to the wall of a self-storage unit but you can bring in floor stands for the kayaks and bikes to keep them off the floor. This protects the tires since weight won't be on them for weeks without moving. The stands allow you to store the equipment vertically or horizontally, according to the size of the unit you rent.
If you're handy, you might build your own racks that hold bikes and kayaks. You might combine the racks with shelves so you can also store other warm-season supplies in totes on the shelves. You can build or use any storage system you want in a self-storage unit as long as you don't hang things from the walls or ceiling of the unit itself.
Contact a local self-storage unit service to learn more.
