6 Facts About Self Storage Auction

Self storage auctions is a great time for customers to snag great deals at a fraction of their original cost. Storage auctions are held when existing customers fail to make prompt payments for a number of month, resulting in the self storage company repossessing the unit, auctioning off the interior contents to hopefully minimise their loss. Self storage are different from normal storage as everything in the unit are personal belongings and can potentially be priceless. Here are some facts about self storage auctions.

See but no touch

To make the most money from the auction and possibly to maintain fairness, there is a see but not touch rule during self storage auctions. Potential customers can only look at the contents and make their own judgement, deciding on the amount to pay for what they think the contents are worth. They may land themselves some great deal if the things are rare. They may also make a loss if the contents are worth nothing.

Information will be published in the media

As required by law, information with regards to the storage auction will need to be published in the media, most commonly in the newspapers. This will allow everyone to know what exactly the auction is about and possibly attracting a large turnout of potential bidders.

Potential bidding war

As the exact contents and valuation of the unit is unknown, expect a number of treasure hunters to turn out for the event to try and snag for something priceless. If they spot something valuable, expect a bidding war amongst each other.

It is completely yours

When you win the auction, everything that is inside the unit is yours. Everything including all the junk and what's not all belong to you now. Before you bid for one, make sure you are prepared for anything that can possibly be inside the unit.

Remember your stack of notes

Do not leave your house without your stack of notes. Storage auctions do not accept cards, they only take cold hard cash. Some will require you to pay on the spot while some allow you to pay at the end of the day.

Possible high returns

There is a possible high return on your "investment". Some storage units may be auctioned off for just $10 but the contents in them could be worth $1000 and you can sell them on eBay. That is a whopping 10000% return on your investment!

Self storage auction is a win-win situation for both the self storage facility owner and you. The owner can recoup some of his losses while you can get a self storage unit for a low price. However, be mentally prepared to clear up the junk left behind by the previous owner but be ready to find some real good treasures in them too.

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Vehicle Storage - Things To Be Considered Before Storing

A vehicle is owned by expending the hard earned money and hence, should be taken care of. You need to apply proper storage methods in order to keep your vehicle safe and sound, if you are not going to use it in the near future. Vehicle storage keeps your car brand new and functional when you bring it back on the road. You need to make a prior preparation for storing your automobile. Here are some things that can be considered while storing your car or other automobiles.

Wash the vehicle It is necessary that you take your automobile for a full detailing. Washing and waxing are ideal means for eliminating the oxidation that might have occurred on the outer covering of the car. This provides you the pleasure of driving a sparkling car after the storage period.

Prep the Gas Tank It is advisable that you pack your vehicle with minimum gas. The amount of gas to be left in the gas tank also depends on the storage period. You can also attach a fuel stabilizer in order to overcome the rusting effects that might be caused due to the gas in the gas container.

Battery Issues Disconnecting the battery from your vehicle is advisable before storing it. If you are not willing to disconnect the battery, you can use a battery tender. In order to keep your battery in good and running condition,you can connect it to the light adapter of your vehicle.This keeps the battery charged and running during the vehicle storage period.

Desiccant bags These bags can easily be found in the department stores, and are effective in preventing the mildews and moisture from entering the automobile keeping it fresh smelling. It also prevents the interior leather components from damaging. Therefore, you need to a get a high quality desiccant bag in order to cover up your automobile.

Indoors or Outdoors The place of vehicle storage also affects the life of the automobile. You need to take care of the fact that your automobile does not come in contact with water or snow and other environmental factors, as they can damage your car to a great extent. If you are planning to go for an indoor space, you can put some sand below the engine compartment that can prevent the flow of fluid into the space in case of leakage.

Storing a vehicle for long term can be a tough task if you do it yourself. There are several vehicle storage providers in the market who can help you in the process.

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Why Choose Sterilite Storage Containers for Your Home?

On many occasions, you feel distressed searching for an item, especially when you are running out of time. Your search is taking long and soon you become frustrated with the failure to get that item. As a result, you mess up things very badly. If you are the home manager, you wouldn't wish to suffer the second time. This is when you finally realize to organize various items using an apt and reliable storing method. Sterilite storage containers are practical and viable solutions to properly organize items in the kitchen and different rooms of the house. This helps in saving space apart from allowing safe and proper storage of essential commodities. The boxes are arranged in the cabinets as per requirements.

Uniformity in color

Sterilite storage containers are white in color. It's a great help in recognizing the items kept inside. You can even keep an eye on the insects, worms and other objects moving in and around. The lids are white in color too. However, a variety of colors run around the edges. These lids are provided with airtight seals disallowing any outside object to enter and ruin the items.

Shapes differ

Another feature which makes Sterilite storage containers stand apart is its availability in different shapes. You can store items in boxes shaped in geometrical and non-geometrical shapes like square, rectangle, round, bowl, oval and uneven ones. Used under the Ultra Seal mark, it is easy to identify which item is feasible for which box. For instance, huge 16'' cup container is exclusively designed for keeping dry food.

Feasible size

The boxes are not only attractive in look and shape but manufactured according to the size requirements of customers. The cup size is considered the most optimized measurement of sterilite storage containers. The smallest one measures at 2.5 cups while the highest one is around 24 cups. The size differs with shape. There is no uniform size for a particular shape and design of these storing solutions.

Multi-usability

Sterilite storage containers are considered the most optimized storing solutions because of its multi purpose use. You can keep the kitchen edibles and drinks apart from using for a variety of other purposes. For instance, you can use the boxes for keeping detergents, clothing accessories like buttons, thread rolls and safety pins. You can also neaten your study room by arranging the stationary in one of the boxes. The heat-resistant material of the container allows its use in microwave too.

Affordability

If you are looking for affordable storing solutions, Sterilite storage containers are precisely what you are looking for. They are available at reasonable rates. The rates are more feasible for your pocket in case you decide to opt for online shopping. You receive attractive discounts on bulk purchase. During festive seasons, you not only receive discounts but gift vouchers and gift items too.

Sterilite storage containers are chosen for its general acceptability. They are good for storing any kind of edible or non-edible, general or special items as per convenience. Finally, don't you think you can keep your home organized and clutter-free and escape from a frustrating situation?

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Advantages and Disadvantages of Various Car Shelters

There are different type of car shelters and garages that you can use for protecting your car. Among these car shelters that are common in many places includes portable and instant shelters. There are also different types of garages that are also used for sheltering cars. They include temporary and instant garages. There are advantages and disadvantages of each car shelter and garage.

Portable shelters are among the most common car shelters. They are also referred to as temporary shelters, thanks to the fact that they are easier to move from place to place. The main advantage of these shelters over other shelters is that, they are easier and cheap to construct. Among the materials needed in order for one to construct these shelters includes tents and steel frames, which are readily available in many stores. They are also convenient for they can be moved from one place to the other, just like their name suggests. Nevertheless, portable shelters too have their own shortcomings. Among them is that they fail to protect the car completely. Therefore, cars that are stored under portable shelters are subject to being damaged and destroyed. The other disadvantage that is linked to portable car shelters is that they can easily be ruined by heavy rains and strong winds.

Instant shelters are much similar to portable shelters, only that the former doesn't need to be a lot of construction work in order to put them up. The main benefits that are attributed to these shelters are that they are efficient and cost effective, for they require less construction work as compared to other shelters. They are also portable thus being easier to move from place to place. Just like other types of shelters that are used for sheltering cars, they also have their own demerits. Among them is that they are less stable, therefore can collapse anytime there is a heavy wind and downpour. They also fail to offer maximum security to vehicles and trucks that are stored under them. Therefore, the vehicles that are sheltered in these shelters are vulnerable to robbery and destruction.

Temporary garages are also used for the purposes of sheltering cars. The benefits of these garages are that, they are easier to put up as compared to permanent garages. They also provide an alternative place for storing cars when a mechanical garage is needed temporarily. However, they also have their own disadvantages with the first one being that they are expensive to construct. In addition to being expensive to construct, they also require a lot of expertise in order to erect them.

Car canopies are also used for sheltering cars and other vehicles. The main advantage is that they provide an ideal way of protecting cars from a wide array of damages. Secondly, they are ideal for preventing vehicle theft and vandalism alongside reducing the costs of car maintenance. The shortcomings are that, they are too expensive to erect, thus hindering many people from using them to shelter their cars and vehicles. They also require a lot of human expertise for one to completely succeed in putting them up.

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Top 4 Ideas of Storage Space for Business Uses

Self storage is an excellent method for your storage alternatives and they are not targeted purely at domestic consumers. Self storage companies can cater to needs of various businesses which different requirements. Self storage is still a maturing sector and the improved range of services provided are able to better meet the needs of businesses and can sometimes provide a complete suite of services for them. Some self storage companies may even purely serve the needs of business customers.

Storing for the future

Those who are in the food and beverage industry are huge fans of self storage mainly due to the huge amount of utensils they have to purchase for the running of their business. Since the prices are cheaper if the purchase is in bulk, most restaurants go for that option. With a need to store the excess brand new utensils, they turn to self storage. This also applies to some other things such as the furniture in the restaurant. Some business also purchase commodities such as salt, sugar and flour in bulk to take advantage of discounts from the supplier. Self storage units come with different options for them such as moisture control to ensure that the commodities do not go bad after prolonged storage.

Alternative to a physical store

With an increasing trend in online business and blog shops, most owners turn to self storage not only to store their clothes which they purchased in bulk, but also to double up as a place for dealing and trying purposes. Most customers are still not comfortable with buying things without seeing them and having a place for customers to touch and feel the clothes as well as to try them on will increase the consumer's confidence level.

Flexibility to buy goods in bulk

The aim of any business is to generate profits for the company and one of the best way is to purchase goods in bulk so as to lower cost. However, when you import such a huge amount of product, you need to store them in a safe and well equipped place. Self storage allows you to store all of your things for a reasonable cost every month.

No tying down contracts

One good thing about self storage units is that they do not tie you down to a lengthy period of time and you are able to change the terms freely due to the nature of your business. For example, you may have a huge import of goods this month and the storage space you need is large. The following months, the import is slightly lesser and thus the space required reduces. You will not be penalised for that.

Self storage for business works in the same way as for domestic customers. You are able to determine the storage size you require and pay accordingly, with you having the freedom to change the terms when the need arises. It also frees up space in your office and allow you to access your goods more flexibly.

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3 Things to Check Before Moving Into the Storage Space

There is a high chance that you are not a self storage company's first customer and there were many people before you who used the unit. You have completely no idea what the guy before you stored in the unit and how is the hygiene standard. Not only that, is the self storage unit in an acceptable condition? Before you move into the storage space, make sure that you get all these nitty-gritty details sorted out.

Exterior of the storage unit

The exterior of the storage unit is very important. Are there any cracks or peeling paint on the walls surrounding the unit? Wall cracks if left alone will lead to water leaking into the unit over time. Unwanted pests like cockroaches and lizards can always sneak into the storage unit, leaving behind their faeces and possibly ruining your things. Also make sure that there are no rusting on the metal components outside the unit, such as the door hinges. The metal components may corrode and degrade the structural integrity of the hinges, causing more problems.

Interior of the storage unit

After making sure that the exterior is good, it's time to head inside. Make sure that the interior is in an acceptable condition as this is where you will keep all your things. Are the walls in good condition? Since the interior is protected from the natural elements such as the rain, it should be in an even better condition compared to the exterior. If it looks worse, something is really wrong with regards to the maintenance and you should talk to the owners. Are the metal rollers starting to corrode or are they kept in a pristine condition? Are the rollers able to slide up and down smoothly when you raise and lower them or are they constant jamming?

Roof

Depending on the type of storage unit, some standalone ones may have old and rusty roofs. Roofs are extremely important and poor ones will lead to water leak when there is rain. Old roofs are also vulnerable to break-ins, causing security problems. Try to seek access to the roof when you are moving into the storage unit and make sure that the owner clears out all the junk on it, including dead leaves and branches. Take the time to make sure that the roofs are not corroding and the sealants are still in good condition.

The above 3 points are the most important things you need to check before moving into a self storage unit. You do not want to be faced in a situation whereby you take over the storage space, only to realise that the condition is so bad and everything is falling apart.

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6 Things to Know Before Renting Self Storage

Self storage can be a saviour to those who cannot afford extra space in their homes or offices to store their items. They can be found almost everywhere and offers competitive pricing. While they make look the same, they are in fact not. Some offers only the very basic facilities while others have more advanced ones with temperature and moisture control. What are some things that you must bear in mind before renting a self storage unit?

No 2 snowflakes are alike

There are many differences between each self storage unit and no 2 are alike despite looking the same on the outside. There are many internal differences like the security, moisture control, climate control, customer service, cleanliness and most importantly, the service and knowledge of staffs. Bear in mind all these factors before deciding on one.

Integrity of staffs

Integrity of staffs working at the self storage unit is one factor that is often overlooked by many. No matter how tight the security at the self storage centre seems with all the alarms and motion sensors, it cannot disrupt an internal theft job by dishonest staffs. When deciding on which self storage unit to rent, always chat with some of the staffs working there and you can tell if they are honest easily.

Double lock facility

At many self storage facilities, thieves often rent a self storage unit of their own to cover up their act. They can then access the storage unit freely whenever they want and find the opportunity to strike when able. Ask around if you are able to double lock your own unit for extra security.

Rental discount gimmick

Some self storage companies offer a rental discount gimmick that lures customer to engage their service, only to raise the rental fees a few months later. Before deciding on which self storage company to use, always ask them for a guarantee to which they will not change the rates. Always make sure to capture this in black and white.

Plan plan plan

Always make sure you plan about what to store and how much space you need to rent before deciding on a self storage unit. Many people often rent more than they need as they failed to plan and this will cause them to spend more money on useless space.

Insurance

Insurance is your best bet against damages or loss of items. Even if the items you store are not valuable, always purchase insurance for unforeseen circumstances. You can often buy insurance from the self storage company at a lower rate or from external companies.

Here are some of the things you need to know before renting self storage. Always know what you need and plan in advance. Do your homework and you can have a fuss free time making your choice.

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Floods and Garages

When floods occur they can cause drastic damage and accumulate thousands upon thousands of dollars in repairs. Garage doors are typically equipped with a rubber seal at the bottom to prevent excessive rainwater from entering the garage. However, with rain amounts that equivocate to floods, this rubber stopper will be no match for the rain. In the event of heavy rainfall you can protect your investments by following a few of these tips as well as be prepared to avoid flood damage in the future. All of these steps combined could ultimately save you time and money when rain starts to pour.

Preparing for potential floods should happen long before the rain comes. Sealing a garage floor is a great way to help prepare for damages that could be costly. Large amounts of rainfall that flood your garage could sit there for long periods of time before water level goes down and can be properly managed, by sealing the floor you can prevent stains and structural damage to the cement.

In the event that you are aware that a storm or heavy rains are on the way, the most important thing you can do is remove all valuable objects from the garage. By securing your investments you can help alleviate the chance of items being ruined that cannot be replaced. By moving objects out of your garage you can also pinpoint where water is leaking through the worst and help alleviate the situation.

Another important aspect to consider when preparing for potential garage floods is how you keep the water out. Well the answer can be as simple as placing sandbags against the garage door walls. This technique has seemingly been around forever and does the trick to keep out heavy flood waters. This technique is cheap and could potentially save you lots of time and money. Using a squeegee broom or any other smooth object to keep the water concentrated is drastically important to keeping the water away.

Keeping your garage and garage door from structure and mechanical damage is crucial during floods. Any effort small or big to help alleviate flood damage goes along way. By following a few of these simple tips you too can avoid being another victim of flood damage. Above all prepare the best you can in advance the cost of repair are drastic and could cause problems for the future. Garage doors are the gateway to our homes and nobody wants a structured foundation. Prepare and invest in garage doors specifically designed for heavy rains, sealed garage doors are available, however are extremely expensive. If you have any questions contact your local garage door company and see how they can help you prepare for the future.

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Difference Between a Bank and Self Storage Space

Are you stuck between choosing a bank's safe deposit box or a self storage unit to store your valuables? Both options offers good security features and comes in different sizes to suit your own needs. But how different are they from each other?

Bank safe deposit boxes

Most banks provides the option for customers to rent safe deposit boxes with them. The safe deposit boxes usually come in 5 different sizes from XS to XL with the smallest ranging from 5'x24'3' to the biggest at 16'x20'16'. As such, the amount and size of things you can store is thus restricted. Bank safe deposit boxes are purely meant for storing valuable items such as jewellery, gold bars, precious paintings and even family heirlooms. The security features of safe deposit boxes are top notch; 2 different keys are required to open the deposit box with one in the hands of the client and the other from the banker. Although the banker will be present when you access your items, your privacy is not compromised as there is a partition that shields your items from the banker, offering you some privacy. Safe deposit boxes in the banks typically charges you a fee per annum, meaning you have to rent it for a minimum period of a year. However, you can only access your items during the bank's operating hours, making it less flexible as compared to self storage facilities.

Self storage

Self storage on the other hand offers solutions for almost everything. They come in all sorts of sizes and even provides features such as climate and temperature control. In terms of security features, they offer round the clock CCTV surveillance, high perimeter fences, controlled access and some even biometric features. Since self storage units come in many more sizes, you are able to store many more things through them as compared to the banks. You are also able to access your items round the clock at anytime convenient to you and you will be the only one required to open your unit, providing you with total privacy. Self storage facilities typically have short contracts of even a few months, so if you are intending to only use it for a couple of months, it is more ideal for you. However, most self storage companies refuse to allow valuables to be stored in the premises due to their high values. Some may allow you to store them provided you provide them proof of a 3rd party insurer, removing them from liability if they get stolen or damaged due to accidents.

Although both self storage facilities and bank's safe deposit boxes appear to be the same on the outside, they are targeted at different customers with different needs. If you are intending to store purely your valuables, you should consider the banks. If you need to store a variety of things, you should consider self storage units.

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Things to Remember While Buying Shipping Containers for Sale

The shipping containers for sale are not only focused on transporting goods to different destinations but storage and warehousing as per customer convenience. These containers have solid and sturdy exteriors with best possible interiors for keeping goods. It is important to depend on the best and most experienced company which deals in shipping containers for sale.

· Quality

While opting to buy shipping containers for sale, it is important to check the quality. You should make sure about the construction of unit in good metal, most probably, anti-corrosive steel. Make sure there are no cracks or holes in any part. When you are planning to ship your belongings either out of city or shifting to the facility, assess the units in advance. There are many companies which allow the customers to visit their premise and containers before putting the sale on paper. This also helps buyers get a general idea about the total exposure and use of each unit.

· Applicability

There are a lot of containers which have multi-purpose use. Make sure you get the measurements of the unit to accommodate your belongings. Most of the companies having shipping containers for sale give a limited or bigger use of facility. You can buy the space as per need. You don't need to pay for the unit. Also, make sure the time period of use of this container. The companies have different terms and conditions for the use. Generally, the self-storage implies getting the unit on fixed lease. Sometimes, the loading and unloading at the company premise is possible in another destination where goods are kept under security removing to the customer's premise.

· Affordability

The internet provides several options for several types of shipping containers for sale. The best way to know about the cost is through the free obligation quotes. Once you send in your requirements, you can get an idea about the right price in the transportation and storage of goods. Make sure to work out the price of the unit which done for you. You don't have to pay for the entire unit. Also, look for options where you can get quality containers at affordable rates.

· Accessibility

If you wish to keep the goods in the container at the company premise, make sure you understand the terms and conditions in advance. If you wish to get an idea about accessing your belongings, ask the seller about the number of visits and best timings. There are many companies that give the facility to access the goods at any hour of the day.

· Safety

One of the primary issues while buying shipping containers for sale is the safety and security of belongings. You should know about the company, get information about its reliability, use and reputation before opting to buy one. The containers should give most safety against pilferage, weather and water. If they are on lease, make sure to carry out thorough assessment of the inside and outside of container. Also, verify the credentials of the company before using its services.

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Reality TV Shows Promote Self Storage

Sometimes, homeowners do not want to let go of their old personal possessions. They keep them until they grow old which results in more stuff to keep at home.

But thanks to the self storage facilities, people now have a safe place to store their treasured items for as long as they want. Whether it's art pieces, antiques, books, furniture and appliances, these rental spaces prove to be useful.

Some people, however, are not so knowledgeable about these self storage facilities. They may have heard about it but not very familiar about the ways to rent a unit and store their personal items there.

Fortunately, there are now reality TV shows that have helped in raising public awareness on how these rental spaces operate and their benefits to consumers.

Storage Wars is a production of A&E Network in the U.S. Aired in 2010, this reality TV show basically focuses on how contents in a rental unit are sold through an auction after failure of the tenant to pay his rent for three consecutive months. The show follows professional buyers of self storage auctioned items who normally decide to place their bid after a five-minute inspection of the boxed or unboxed items when the unit is opened by the operator.

The buyers are then faced with the challenge to resell the things they bought from the sale and gain profit. The show is not on its fourth season and can be viewed from all around the globe.

The main hosts of these shows -- father and son team Darrell and Brandon Sheets, Jarrod Schulz and Dave Hester -- all have experienced in auctions and buying rare treasures. Darrell Sheets, for instance, has been involved in storage auctions for 32 years and has somehow influenced his son to be in the same trade.

Auction Hunters, a Gurney Production, also began in 2010. Similar to Storage Wars, it is now running on its fourth season. But unlike its close competitor, this reality TV show has actors as the main hosts. Allen Haff and Ton Jones are involved in, again, self storage auctions mostly in the South California area and sometimes, in other parts of the U.S.

The format is similar to A&E's show in that the two actors normally search for self storage auctions wherein they can take part. Then they bid for the items and when they win, they have to have the things appraised to determine their value. For items appraised with a high value, they need to sell them to either collectors or experts.

The producers of both networks launched these reality TV shows after discovering the auctions that take place in self storage facilities when units are not paid for several consecutive months. They're out to prove that there's money in abandoned and sometimes trash items of other people.

Somehow, these TV programs are also teaching consumers a lesson that if they value their personal belongings kept in self storage, they should find a way to pay for their monthly rent or face the consequence. These facilities are affordable and secured alternatives and if you're bent on keeping your stuff there for the long term, then do not forget your responsibility to pay the rent.

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Steel Storage Sheds For Sale - Why You Need One!

The steel storage shed. I know, I know.These days it's nowhere near as popular as the frequently purchased "plastic" shed. But that's not what bought you here to this article, is it? You want to do something a little different, right? You don't want to have the same cookie-cutter shed that everyone else in the neighborhood has, right? You're leaning toward a steel storage shed and you want me to push you over the edge, right? OK, consider yourself pushed my friend! I will give you some very good reasons why you should buy a steel storage shed instead of the neighborhood standard "plastic" shed.

First of all, let me reveal the obvious to you. Those so-called "plastic" sheds are not really plastic. They are a chemical construct called high density polyethylene, or HDPE for short. It's a pretty good chemical mixture because they have continued to make all kinds of things with it, including storage sheds. It won't chip, break, or peel. And that's a good thing because you wouldn't want your new shed to do any of the above. (I know I'm not making a good argument for the steel shed yet. Just bear with me.)

The so-called "plastic" shed is built to withstand the best thing that Mother Nature can throw at it. From the extremes of the Winter cold to the heat of the Summer. It's designed with you, the customer in mind. They have plastic sheds with fake windows installed. They have plastic sheds that are so nice they can double for an outside house. As a matter of fact, there is one featured on Amazon.com that was furnished to look like an apartment. It's very nice... But what does all of this have to do with steel sheds?

Nothing. Those plastic sheds may have all the bells and whistles. But there is something that they are missing. Want to know what that is? It's quite simple my friend. Those plastic sheds are missing personality. You can put all the bells and whistles you want on a HDPE-chemical construct. But it won't have the personality of a steel storage shed. It won't have the look of a steel shed. It won't have the feel of a steel shed.

Still not a believer? Need something a little more concrete than just "personality and looks"? ( I feel like I'm setting you up on a date! Lol!) How about price? Although those plastic sheds are really nice and they have a bunch of shiny things hanging off them. They cost a whole lot more than a similarly equipped steel storage shed. Why? Because the plastic ones are in demand! So many people are buying them that the manufacturers can raise the price to whatever they want and still make a profit!

Now take a 5x6 steel shed and put it next to a 5x6 plastic one. I guarantee you that the plastic one will cost at least TWICE as much! Maybe that's the one thing that you need to sway you in the direction of the steel shed my friend. The most important thing in this day and age... PRICE! Steel storage sheds for sale is not just a statement! When compared to the price of a plastic one, you can see why they seem like they are on sale!

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Wooden Sheds And Outdoor Storage

When it comes to wooden sheds and outdoor storage, some people have a very narrow view. What do I mean? I mean that these words usually don't mix. What words am I talking about? These words: Wooden sheds and outdoor storage. Let me explain.

First of all, when most people think of the term "outdoor storage", they don't necessarily think about wood. I don't know if it's the maintenance involved with wood, or the prevalence of other more popular materials. But most people do not associate "wood" with being one of the best materials to use for outdoor storage. Why?

Let's be honest, when you think of the outdoors, you think of all the different extremes of the weather. You think of the rain, the snow, the wind, and everything that comes along with that. Wood is vulnerable to all of those things. That's a good reason why most people that need outdoor storage usually stray away from wood and consider what they think is more durable. The ever popular "plastic" outdoor shed.

But is it really more durable than wood? The so-called "plastic" outdoor shed, I mean. First of all, it's not "plastic" per se. Most of the time it's a material that goes by the name of high density polyethylene. Or HDPE for short. This material is a man made material, as you might imagine. It is basically a chemical construct made to withstand the forces of nature. That means that it won't bend, break, warp, or burn, unlike wood. But what does wood have that HDPE doesn't?

One word, my friend. Beauty. That's it. There's nothing more beautiful than something made from pure wood. And I'm not talking about that pressed together crap either! I'm talking about real wood! Real wood does something else that HDPE doesn't do. Real wood ages. It get's stronger as it ages. HDPE just sits there. Real wood has a beauty that HDPE can never duplicate. It can beautify any place in or out of your home. Can you say the same thing about HDPE? (When's the last time you saw a kitchen floor made from HDPE?)

Don't get me wrong, I have a shed made from HDPE. Me and everyone on my block. But there is one neighbor that lives down the street that opted out of the cookie cutter sheds that they sell at the local hardware store. He chose wood, and his shed is the best LOOKING shed on the block. It works just like the rest of the other sheds on the block. It houses the same tools that everyone on the block has. It just looks better. That's it.

So the choice is yours. You can join the millions of people in the world who decided that HDPE is the way to go. Or you can have something UNIQUE. Something that no other person in your neighborhood has. Wood. If I had the chance to do it all over again, I would choose wood. How about you?

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How To Maintain A Green Environment In Self Storage

As the emphasis on preserving the environment remains crucial these days, people who use self storage facilities can also practice the green habit. In fact, apart from the three R's (reduce, reuse, recycle) that we often hear being talked about by the experts, there are other R's that you can do to help maintain a green environment when you're storing items in rental units.

It's okay to store personal belongings in a rental unit for indefinite periods of time. Sometimes, it can benefit you to keep them safely somewhere accessible for awhile because there may come a time that you will still be able to use them again or find a better way to dispose of them.

If you're decided not to dispose of some items, do keep in mind that you can reuse them at a later time. Furniture and cubicles, for example, can be re-upholstered or refurbished to make it look like new. You should consider contacting companies that refurbish items and even provide warranty. When you do this, you don't need to buy a new one therefore letting you save money. It's all about being creative.

You may also recycle other items. There are manufacturers who provide recycling services and who knows, you may even earn from it. Companies that make electronic appliances, for instance, normally give tips on the proper recycling method for their products so if you still have your old devices, you can contact the manufacturers and find out about this.

In this case, another R or research is essential. Whether you'll be recycling or perhaps planning to buy a new furniture or appliance, it would be a good idea to do a green move. Certain parts of old furniture made from durable materials can be used to make another item such as a stool or table.

When buying a new one, on the other hand, you can now choose raw materials sourced sustainably and those that are non-toxic. Having enough knowledge on the condition of our present environment, you need to avoid items that easily wear and tear after just a year of use as they only contribute to waste. It is better to invest in a more expensive item that you can be sure will last for a long time.

Reselling your old items is one of the other R's. If you have some furniture that you have refurbished and you no longer want to use, you can always sell them again at a higher price. Conduct a garage sale in your place and who knows, furniture dealers may just be interested in them or somebody looking for a cheaper furniture may just spot them.

People who are concerned about the environment can help in the green movement by making use of their old items instead of dumping them in a self storage unit and forgetting all about them moving onwards. What's important is you find the time to do the several R's mentioned here to be able to contribute to environmental preservation and help make the Earth a better place to the next generation.

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