Are you in need of a storage unit? If so, you may be weighing the pros and cons of using an indoor or outdoor unit. While an indoor unit has climate controls and other features to help keep your belonging safe, it is also more expensive to rent per month. If this has caused you to lean more towards an outdoor unit, be aware of some of the challenges that you can run into.

Water

Outdoor storage units are essentially a garage with a padlock on them. The door may not form a completely tight seal along the bottom of the door, which means there is always a chance of water getting into the storage unit. This means you need to be proactive in case this were to happen, since a strong storm can cause water to be pushed under the door or create local flooding.

It is best to avoid putting things directly on the floor that can be ruined by water. You can raise items with pallets, place items on blocks of wood, or use plastic bins that are completely sealed. All these things will help ensure water doesn't get your belongings if they somehow get in.

Moisture

Even if water doesn't get into a storage unit, moisture is still an issue that you need to be aware of. The air inside an outdoor unit doesn't have the benefit of being dehumidified by an HVAC system, so hot and humid days will cause the air in your storage unit to be the same way.

You can be proactive to fight this problem by protecting certain items. Would should be covered with a furniture polish that will help seal the surface and prevent moisture from getting inside. You can do the same thing with leather items by coating them with a protective spray. For electronics, you can place them in a box with silica gel, which will absorb the moisture rather than letting it collect on metal components and rust.

Pests

There is always a chance that pests can get into a storage unit while you are away. You'll want to keep fabric items in sealed plastic containers, since some pests can chew through cardboard boxes. Consider setting out traps to catch pest that enter the unit, and contacting the owners of the storage facility if you notice pests in the area.

If these seem like issues you would rather not deal with, consider renting a climate controlled storage unit instead. The unit will be indoors and at the proper temperature, avoiding all of those possible challenges.