The saying goes, “All good things must come to an end,” and as we say our good-byes to the warm, summer months, we must also plan for the colder days ahead. It’s time to begin the process of preparing any of our summer toys and items for storage. From gardening tools to golf clubs, it’s time to figure out where everything is going to be stored, safely and out of the way this winter.
If you are lucky enough to have a shed or boat house, that extra space can certainly help alleviate overflow from your basement and garage. At Garage Décor and More, we can make the most out of any storage space you have, and as the seasons change we find it’s the BEST TIME to get organized!
Typically, sheds do a decent job withstanding the changing temperatures we see in the Midwest. It’s still important to prep your outdoor garage or shed prior to the harsh winter days ahead. If you are using your outdoor shed to store items of value, it’s important to keep your investments safe all year long! There are ways to winterize your shed now so when spring arrives, your items are intact and ready for warmer weather.
A thorough cleaning of your shed can happen now, while the summer days are coming to a close. The weather is cooler and more accommodating for an outdoor undertaking! It’s time to organize those outdoor planters no longer in use, your fertilizers, garden tools and more. Are things broken? Now is the best time to dispose of those items and keep a running list of what you may want to buy now or first thing next spring.
Secure any unused potting soils, mulches, or fertilizers in individual bags or containers. This keeps rodents from using your shed as their winter home, potentially damaging any of your personal items…and surprising you as you open the door in the spring! Think about installing a StoreWALL system in your shed, placing items off the floor and organized for ease. The system is waterproof and rugged, offering spots for your tools, garden hose, and more.
Sweep the floor and remove cobwebs, getting rid of insects as best you can to prep your shed for the winter months. While you’re at it, clean your tools as well and store them in plastic for good results. Interested in installing cabinets for your shed? We offer the Workbench line of cabinets that are heavy duty and suited for garages, sheds, and basements. This way, all of your personal items have an extra layer of protection.
If you own a leaf blower or lawn mower, make sure to remove oil and gas from those items. And even though they will be in your shed during the colder months, it is also smart to cover the equipment with a tarp to cut down on any dust or moisture that may seep in. Also, make sure you dispose of any oil, thinners, fuel and paint safely. Many municipalities have certain days for collection of these items in a safe, environmentally-friendly manner. Contact your city office for more information.
Once you organize the shed and clean it out, it will be easier to inspect for any damage. Maybe it’s time to consider a better floor for your shed? Reinforce the flooring with our Lock-tile product, an effective way to protect any items you may be storing directly on your shed’s floor. If you see any holes or damage, use caulk to fill them in and this will keep pests from accessing your shed. Repairing your shed or outdoor garage now is the best way to prevent further damage from happening.
After assessing your existing storage space, determine what may need to be improved. Do you need to make better use of its layout? If so, contact Garage Décor and More for a free, personalized consultation. We will come to your home and help you create a personalized plan for your storage. Check out all we have to offer online at www.garagedecorandmore.comor give us a call at (618) 789-7969.