Whether you're downsizing available space with a new home or simply trying to make some room in the attic or the basement, a public storage unit can be a convenient option for relocating your belongings. You don't have to throw away belongings that have sentimental value or may be useful in the feature, and you don't need to sacrifice available living space in your home. Unfortunately, you may need to take a few precautions to keep your storage unit as well-maintained as possible when you're not there. A few techniques for storage area preparation can keep your belongings safe from some of the threats that can creep in over time. 

Humidity Control Concerns

When selecting a public storage unit, you want to perform a detailed inspection of the area. Are any of the walls or the ceiling leaking? Do you notice air moving through any cracks? Are there any pests inside? If the unit satisfies a basic inspection with the naked eye, you need to turn your concerns to humidity.

Some humidity problems can be solved by sealing your belongings with plastic in a vacuum sealer or placing the items in a container. Unfortunately, moisture collection can still happen unless the container is airtight; an issue common in areas with nearly year-round, high humidity.

Coastal areas and much of the American southeast are no stranger to humidity issues, but if you live deeper inland, you may not be aware of humidity issues that could dampen one town while leaving another town completely dry. It could be because of a nearby swamp or lake, but there are times where you may not be aware of a specific area's humidity problems.

That doesn't mean you need to relocate your storage plans! If you've found the perfect storage facility in an area that happens to be a bit muggier than you're used to, get a dehumidifier. Dehumidifiers are available in a variety of sizes, and dehumidifier manufacturers are willing to discuss the needs of your storage unit when compared to their product. You'll need to give them the dimensions of your storage unit, which can be measured on your own or given by the storage facility owner.

Keeping Pests Away

Pest control should be the responsibility of your facility's owner, but there are times when small pest problems can be more quickly and efficiently handled on your own. If bugs seem to enter every time you open the storage unit door or if your property brought in a small infestation, it's time to get a few traps and sprays.

Each insect type may need a specific killing method, but starvation needs to be at the top of your list. Especially in the case of termites or other pests that could damage wooden property, you'll want to completely seal off your belongings. It may be a big task, but you can contact pest control specialist to begin treatment on the furniture and the storage room. A moving company can vacuum seal wooden furniture for added protection.

When the wooden property is sealed, you can monitor the area for any other pest outbreaks before removing the seal. Contact a personal storage professional (such as one from Sentry Mini-Storage Inc) to discuss any other control measures you may need to make to keep your belongings safe.