The Many Uses and Benefits of Climate-Controlled Storage

In summer, scorching heat, blazing sun and humidity can play havoc with items stored outdoors. Wind can drive rain into cracks and crevices, damaging all sorts of items. Temperature changes can stress both metals and other materials. Sunlight can bleach fabric and dry and crack plastic and rubber.

When winter comes to Ottawa, the temperature plunges and we are quickly blanketed in ice and snow. Fluctuations in temperature, cycles of freezing and thawing, are one of the main reasons for damage to stored items. Conditions like this demand that we pay special attention to our valuables and how to store them. Your valuables deserve as much environmental protection as you can get. Climate-controlled storage means peace of mind. A moderate, constant temperature is maintained in a dry, clean storage unit year round.

What is climate-controlled storage? What does it really mean?

Climate-controlled facilities handle the temperature and humidity to keep the temperature and the moisture levels consistent in the units all year long. This is an option that gives you confidence that your expensive and valuable items will be protected during the harsh Ottawa seasons.

You may ask, do I need climate-controlled storage?

When it comes to valuable and fragile items like musical instruments, antique furniture, or expensive artwork, special care needs to be taken. Changes in humidity and temperature can cause expansion and contraction, which may lead to damage, even ruining objects.

Climate-controlled storage is especially advantageous for items such as:

• Musical instruments
• Antique furniture
• Art work
• Electronics
• Important documents
• Books and magazines
• Classic and antique cars
• Seasonal items
• Motorcycles
• Boats

Precious musical instruments, antiques, artwork, and other irreplaceable items are best kept where moisture and temperature are maintained at a constant and moderate level.

Likewise,  for your special vehicles, like motorcycles, dirt bikes, classic cars, and convertibles, climate-controlled storage is the answer during the off-season. There’s no doubt about it, Ottawa winters are full of salt, snow and ice, and more recently, cycles of freeze and thaw. Keeping your motorcycle, classic car or precious summer car in climate-controlled storage is the best way to ensure that they stay in tip-top shape over the unpredictable Ottawa winter.  Protect your  valuable possessions from the environmental elements.

Large items, such as vehicles, when stored outside at home can be unsightly and can even obstruct your access. Even if covered by a tarp or fitted cover, the wind can shift the cover back and forth, scuffing the finishes. Moisture, mixed with air-borne pollution, and grit can cause surface corrosion, even on chrome parts. Vermin can infiltrate the items and damage the interior and parts under the hood.

Using a storage unit frees up valuable space and, in most of our properties, space is at a premium.  As well, improper storage can actually do more harm than good. That’s why it’s a good idea to consult with the experts at your storage unit and get their advice. That way you can avoid expense and frustration in the spring when you go to start up your prized vehicle.

What are the benefits of climate control? How do I know if it’s really for me?

A few of the main benefits are:

• Constant temperature
• Controlled humidity
• Dust reduction
• Rodent protection
• Security for insurance purposes
• Corrosion prevention
• Protection from UV rays
• Shelter from wind
• Cover against precipitation
• Protection from vandalism and theft
• Protection from falling objects, scratches

Aside from ice, snow, wind, sun and salt, climate-controlled storage also protects against many often overlooked problems and disadvantages associated with storing items:

Mould: Upholstery, fabrics, clothing, and artwork can grow mildew and mould if the environment is humid. Odours and stains can build up and be difficult to remove.

Shrinkage: Furniture, wooden frames, plastics, and rubber can expand and shrink in inconsistent temperature and humidity. Often, these cannot be practically repaired.

Dust: If dust collects, it absorbs moisture and will encourage mould and insects. If dust accumulates on your vehicle, rust can form and cause corrosion. Some dust is abrasive and corrosive and can damage surfaces. Refinishing can be difficult and expensive.

Rodents:  Mice, squirrels and other small animals can find a home in your vehicle over winter and lead to very costly repairs if they chew on wires or damage systems, like hoses, filters, upholstery, etc.

Insects: Can infest your items, even consume paper or fabric, and be difficult to remediate.

Birds: Can nest in stored items or leave corrosive droppings, spoiling finishes.

Additionally, professionally storing your valuables means added security. Vehicles and other valuables are protected from vandals and damage. They are kept under surveillance with alarms.

Valuables will also just be fresher and cleaner when stored in a climate-controlled facility.

What do I need to know before storing belongings? 

Do your items need attention before storage? Is vacuuming, draining, polishing or lubricating needed? In general, items should be meticulously cleaned and serviced before they are put into storage. Any special needs during storage, such as being elevated off the floor, windows left open or closed, tires inflated or deflated, must be taken into account, and will be handled by your storage experts.

It’s worth the peace of mind knowing that in climate-controlled storage, cherished valuables are secure, maintained, and protected from the environment.

Still Have Questions? Talk to Acceptable Storage in Ottawa!

Check out the modern facilities at Acceptable Storage; safe and secure for your valuables, with climate-controlled units available.

When you live in an area like Ottawa with its extreme temperatures, climate control is an important asset to consider when you’re looking to store your valuables.

Regardless of whether you’re sure what your specific needs are, Acceptable Storage can help. If you have any questions, just call us at 613-822-7666, email info@dev.acceptablestorage.com or use the contact form on this page.

We’ll provide all the information you need along with a free quote.