Everybody knows unused attic space can make a great place to store items you don’t need at the moment. However, there are some things to keep in mind before you fill your attic space with all sorts of items. In order to prevent damage to your personal possessions and the infrastructure of your home, make sure you avoid making these 5 most common attic storage mistakes.
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Keep Your Attic Food-Free
It may seem obvious, but it’s worth repeating it - never store your food in the attic. Not only will the lack of ventilation and extreme moisture reduce its shelf life, any food will also attract rodents and can lead to serious infestation. -
No Electronics
Your valuable electronics will not only suffer from the extreme temperatures and moisture, but may also keep any rats, mice, and squirrels entertained as they chew on the wires and tiny pieces. -
Do Not Store Sensitive Fabrics and Important Documents
Attic conditions aren’t very friendly towards sensitive materials. Moisture and extreme temperatures don’t provide for the safest environment when it comes to your rugs, fine linen, and paperwork. The growth of mildew and mold can damage improperly sealed furniture beyond repair, and same goes with artwork, files, and photos and books. -
Storing Of Flammable Liquids
Cleaning products, paint, gasoline, turpentine, and other flammable chemicals should be kept away from your attic. The fluctuating temperatures may cause these liquids to expand and contract and lead to combustion - a chemical process wherein the fuel reacts with oxygen, producing heat. Therefore, storing flammable liquids in your attic is not only a health hazard (as the reaction gives off the toxic carbon monoxide) but is also a serious fire hazard. -
Heavy Items Could Fall Through
You’ve got all these heavy boxes and furniture that you no longer need and are wondering where to put it? While your attic space may seem like the most logical solution, beware of stacking too many items together as attic sometimes do not have a full floor. This increases the risk of the load falling through the flooring and harming you and your family members.
Now that you’re aware of the most important precautions to have in mind when storing your possessions in the attic, you’re ready to make the best use of its space. A little preparation can go a long way to a safe and secure storage.