7 items you shouldn’t keep in the garage
Are you guilty of turning your garage into a catch-all for gardening tools, DIY gear, and unused furniture? While it’s tempting to use your garage as an overflow storage space, there’s a critical list of items that should never find their home behind those closed doors. Whether your garage is integrated, attached, or freestanding, it often lacks the insulation and heating that your house enjoys. Consequently, the temperature and moisture variations can wreak havoc on your belongings, causing irreparable damage.
Here’s a careful examination of 7 items that might be innocently residing in your garage, but would thrive better elsewhere:
1.Wooden Furniture
Embrace a truth about wood – it’s a living material that reacts to changes in humidity. A cold, damp garage is the worst habitat for valuable wooden furniture. Fluctuations in moisture levels can lead to the expansion and contraction of wood fibres, a recipe for cracked surfaces and eventual deterioration. Proper wood preservation demands consistent temperatures and safeguarding from the elements.
2. Books, Magazines, and Papers
Just as wooden furniture battles humidity, paper products fare no better. Books, magazines, newspapers, and photo albums are particularly sensitive to moisture. In a damp environment, expect curled pages and warped spines. For paper items, your safest bet is a temperature-controlled haven.
3. Paint
The garage might seem like a safe haven for paint cans, but it’s far from ideal. Paint thrives in a cool, dry setting. If your garage experiences extreme temperature swings – scorching summers and freezing winters – your paint’s lifespan will suffer. Insulate your garage before placing paint cans on shelves; never let them touch the floor, as rust can become their unwelcome companion.
4. Foodstuffs
From fresh produce to grain sacks, garages are magnets for pests if food is stored there. Rodents possess a remarkable knack for breaching even hard plastic barriers. Canned goods aren’t immune either; temperature shifts can adversely affect their flavour.
5. Fridge/Freezer
Believe it or not, refrigeration appliances in a fluctuating garage environment consume more energy, leading to higher electricity bills. If temperature control isn’t at your fingertips, this isn’t the energy-efficient path for your appliances.
6. Electronic Equipment
Electronics deteriorate swiftly in damp environments. From vintage TVs to modern gaming consoles, moisture and temperature fluctuations pose serious threats. Condensation can seep into circuits, rendering your cherished gadgets beyond repair.
7. BBQ Gas Bottles
Storing propane gas canisters for your barbecue in the garage is a safety hazard. Well-ventilated outdoor spaces are the only suitable storage spots. Gas fumes, when trapped in the confines of a garage, can ignite unexpectedly.
Discover the art of smart storage. Bid farewell to housing these items in your garage, and explore alternative solutions that safeguard your belongings. For insights into upgrading or repairing your garage door and a diverse range of options, consult CDC Garage Doors. Get a free quote today.
