INSIDE VS. OUTSIDE: WHERE SHOULD YOU STORE YOUR STUFF?

Climate Control Storage


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July 12th, 2019


SHOULD YOU CHOOSE CLIMATE-CONTROL OR DRIVE-UP?


Admit it: Your home or office is in dire need of decluttering. You know it’s a big chore, but you have decided it’s time to bite the bullet and rent a self-storage unit. But, do you know what kind of storage unit you need? Inside…or outside?

If you give Modern Storage a call, one of our storage experts can help you choose!

Both indoor and outdoor storage options are available to you at our Arkansas self-storage facilities, and we also have an abundance of amenities to go along with it all:

  • On-site managers
  • 24-surveillance cameras
  • Perimeter fencing
  • Controlled-access gates
  • Moving supplies
  • And more!

We can’t clean out your house and pack your stuff for you, but we can certainly steer you in the direction of a unit that will fit your needs.So, let’s review your options…

Outside Self-Storage Units

Outdoor self-storage units are typically drive-up or walk-up access. This type of storage unit is very popular because they are affordable and easy to load and unload. You can drive up to the door, unpack your stuff, and call it a day!

If you need to store large or heavy items, an outdoor unit would be much easier for you than an inside unit. You don’t have to worry about navigating an unending series of doors or hallways to reach your stuff.

Outdoor units are also especially useful if you need to store some stuff, but don’t have a garage (or overstuffed your garage) at your home. The concept is the same: you leave your stuff outside in a covered area, roll down the door, and lock it up tight.

(PS: We also sell storage unit locks if you need one!)

What Can I Store Outside?

If you are storing a boat, car, truck, trailer, or RV, and outdoor storage unit is always the perfect go-to. You can rent an outdoor parking space or vehicle storage unit from a storage facility like Modern Storage and be all set!

There are a few other items that can also be stored outside without any problems:

  • Lawnmower
  • gardening tools
  • bicycles
  • canoes or kayaks
  • camping gear
  • holiday decorations
  • and more.

Basically, anything you would feel comfortable storing in a garage would hold up just fine in an outdoor storage unit.If you are storing something that’s a bit more sensitive, you may need to consider other options.

Cons of Outside Storage

There are a few cons to outdoor, drive-up access storage units.

First, you should think about the fact that you are exposed to the weather and elements. If it’s raining, don’t forget to bring an umbrella! If it’s sunny, prepare to get sweaty!

Most outdoor storage units do not have a temperature-control option. If your belongings are susceptible to extreme heat, bitter cold, or excessive humidity, a drive-up unit may not be the best option.

Outdoor storage buildings are typically made of metal, so the inside of your unit can get very muggy in the summertime and potentially melt or warp some items. Likewise, it can get cold in the winter and freeze. Valuable wooden furniture exposed to temperature changes can expand and contract, causing cracking and warping.

How does this option sound so far? Not the best for you? Let’s look at some benefits of choosing an inside storage unit.

Inside Self-Storage Units

If you choose an inside vs. an outside self-storage unit, you will enter a building to access your stored belongings.

That means if it’s raining outside, you will be nice and dry as you rummage through your boxes to find what you need. You can take your time when you move and sort your items in a comfortable environment that is well lit and out of the elements.

If you have items that are sensitive to weather, an indoor self-storage unit provides better protection than an outdoor, drive-up storage unit.

At Modern Storage, we also offer indoor, climate-controlled units. While a little more expensive than outdoor storage units and indoor storage units without climate control, this option is the best option if you are storing important personal belongings.

What Can I Store in a Climate-Controlled Unit?

When a storage facility like Modern Storage offers indoor storage units with climate control, this means that the unit maintains a temperature between 55 and 80 degrees. These units are typically available with enclosed, indoor access to ensure the utmost protection from the elements.

Considering how hot and humid Arkansas can get, a climate-controlled unit is a smart choice in most storage situations.

Our storage experts recommend you rent a climate-controlled unit if you plan to store any of the following items:

  • Collectibles
  • Antiques
  • Artwork
  • Stamp collections
  • Record collections
  • Wine and spirits
  • Appliances
  • Family heirlooms
  • Photos and albums
  • Plastics
  • Electronics
  • Clothing
  • Upholstered furniture
  • Wood Furniture
  • Mattresses

These types of items are sensitive to issues like cracking, fraying, mold, mildew, rust, and pests and could be ruined if kept in an uncontrolled environment.

Cons of Inside Storage

There are a few drawbacks to choosing an inside vs. outside storage unit.

If quick and easy convenience is important to you, you cannot just drive up, unlock the door, and reach your stuff in an indoor unit.

Plus, if you have awkwardly shaped items, you must find a way to maneuver them through hallways and around corners.

To make the moving process easier, we do offer a free moving truck, dollies, and push carts for all new storage customers. Trust us, it helps!

Inside vs. Outside: What’s Your Decision?

So now that you have a better understanding of your storage options, do you know which one to choose?

If you still have some questions, the Modern Storage would be happy to help you. Contact us today to start storing now!

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