Preparing for the Rainy Season: Tips for Protecting Your Stored Items in Legal, Alberta
As the rainy season looms in Legal, Alberta, taking proactive steps to safeguard your stored items from moisture and potential damage is essential. Whether in a storage unit or a shipping container, proper preparation is key to avoiding problems like mold, mildew, and rust. In this blog, we provide essential tips on moisture prevention, using the right packing materials, and employing moisture absorbers to ensure your belongings stay in top condition.
1. Moisture Prevention: The First Line of Defense
Moisture poses a significant risk during the rainy season, leading to mold, mildew, and other damage. Here’s how you can combat moisture:
• Inspect and Seal: Check your storage unit or container for any leaks or gaps before placing items inside. Ensure that all doors and windows are well-sealed. If you’re using a shipping container, adding a rain guard above the door can help prevent water ingress.
• Elevate Items: Keep your belongings off the ground to avoid water damage from potential flooding or condensation. Utilizing pallets, shelving, or robust plastic bins can help elevate and protect your items.
• Ventilation: Proper ventilation is crucial to prevent moisture buildup. If your storage space allows, ensure it has good airflow. For containers, consider installing vents or a dehumidifier to manage humidity effectively.
2. Proper Packing Materials: Protecting Your Belongings
Choosing the right packing materials can make a significant difference in protecting your items:
• Waterproof Containers: Opt for waterproof plastic bins or well-sealed boxes, especially for storing sensitive items like documents and electronics.
• Bubble Wrap and Furniture Covers: Wrap fragile items in bubble wrap for cushioning and moisture protection. Use waterproof covers for larger items like furniture to shield them from dampness.
• Desiccant Packs: Incorporate silica gel packs or other desiccants within your boxes to absorb moisture. These are particularly beneficial for electronics, clothing, and leather goods.
3. Use Moisture Absorbers: An Extra Layer of Protection
Employing moisture absorbers can effectively control humidity levels inside your storage unit or container:
• Silica Gel Packs: Excellent for absorbing moisture in confined spaces, these can be placed in boxes alongside sensitive items.
• Calcium Chloride Absorbers: Ideal for larger spaces, these absorbers attract and trap moisture from the air.
• Charcoal: As a natural moisture absorber, charcoal can be used by placing a few pieces in an open container within your storage space.
4. Regular Maintenance and Monitoring
Frequent checks on your stored items are crucial for preventing damage during the rainy season:
• Inspect Periodically: Visit your storage unit or container regularly to check for leaks, dampness, or mold. Catching these issues early can prevent extensive damage.
• Air Circulation: On dry days, open your storage space briefly to let fresh air circulate and help reduce moisture levels.
• Update Packing Materials: Replace desiccant packs and other moisture absorbers as necessary, particularly if they become saturated.
Choose the Right Storage Solutions with Legal Self Storage
At Legal Self Storage, we prioritize the safety and integrity of your belongings, especially during the challenging rainy season. Our storage solutions are designed to offer a secure and dry environment for your items. Whether you need a robust storage unit or a versatile shipping container, we provide options equipped to protect against moisture and other environmental factors.
Contact us today at 780-961-4050 or via email at info@legalselfstorage.com to learn more about our storage solutions and how we can help you effectively prepare for the rainy season.