Out of Space? Try These Attic Storage Tips

Do you need some attic storage tips? Running out of space in the garage or basement? Too broke to rent a storage unit? Rather store your things a little closer to home? Why not head to the rafters? Attic storage can be a viable solution to your dilemma. Still, there are issues that go along with storing things in the attic. Pests, temperature and more can ruin your stored items. What to do?

No light? Use a shop light. Most attics are unfinished. That means no electricity and no lighting. Why not use a shop light to illuminate your attic? Storage will be easier to find when you need it. Just screw a hook into the rafters and hang your light there. An extension cord will solve your wiring problem.

Watch the weight load. We've all seen the funny movies where someone falls through the attic ceiling. In reality, it's no joke. Be sure heavy items are supported by strong beams. Need a bigger surface area? Use thick plywood laid across those beams.

Make it accessible. Using a ladder to access the attic can be tiring. Consider folding stairs. If you plan to make the attic a storage area, you'll want good access. A full flight of stairs may not be an option. Solve this issue by installing a set of folding stairs.

Watch the temperature. Don't store heat or cold sensitive items. Attic temperature can fluctuate to extremes. Be sure your attic has ventilation for warm days and insulation for cold ones. Use caution when storing photos, videos and other memorabilia, which can fade in the heat

Label your boxes. When you first place a box of storage in the attic, you might not think to label it. After all, you put it there so you'll remember what it is, right? Wrong. After several years and several dozen boxes, who knows what's in the attic? Storage should always be labeled for easy identification.

Use a hard hat to avoid low ceiling bumps. This is a neat trick. How many times have you bumped your head while searching for a box in the attic storage room? Why not hang a hard hat at your attic entryway. You'll save yourself from bumping your noggin on those low ceilings.

Hang a clothes rod for winter wear. Why have to rummage through boxes for your seasonal wear? Installing a clothes rack for visible attic storage makes things simpler. Just leave clothes on the hanger for easy back and forth transport.

Don't forget the cedar! Pests abound in attics. One of those pests is moths. They lay their eggs, which hatch and make a meal of your good winter coat. Foil them by hanging cedar balls or placing cedar chips in pockets. You can also purchase cedar imprinted storage bags from your local dry cleaner.

Use tarps for damage control. (Leaky roof, bird droppings, etc.) Store items in plastic bins. Moths aren't the only pests in the attic. Your attic could become home to squirrels, pigeons or other vermin. Use tarps to keep raindrops off. Store in plastic containers to prevent squirrels and mice from nesting.

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Source:

Personal experience