Homeowners who have limited space can struggle to find sensible storage solutions. With the right tools and some clever strategies, though, you can maximize your available space, whether you store items under your deck, invest in a shed, or start to organize your attic space. Read our guide below for tips on how to organize your home safely and according to local regulations.
Safe Storage is the First Priority
Prioritize safety when you start organizing your belongings. Consider the points below.
- Keep flammable materials away from heat sources: Store items such as gasoline, oil, paint products, and aerosols far away from furnaces, water heaters, and other potential ignition points.
- Properly store equipment with fuel tanks: Remember that items such as lawnmowers contain flammable materials in their fuel tanks.
- Regularly inspect storage areas for leaks or spills: Address potential hazards promptly to prevent accidents and keep your home safe.
- Secure poisonous materials: Place cleaning products, solvents, and other hazardous items out of the reach of children.
Focus on Security For Personal Records
Consider the tips below when you’re storing sensitive documents, digital media, and any other personal information:
- Choose out-of-sight locations: Keep sensitive items in private places to deter potential thieves.
- Shred discarded documents: Destroy any papers that contain personal information before disposing of them.
- Use a lockable file cabinet: Store important papers and digital storage devices in a secure, lockable cabinet.
- Wipe old electronics: Remove personal files from your computers and devices before donating or recycling them.
Consider installing software that can offer real-time alerts for potential breaches, too, and make sure your digital storage devices are encrypted.
Factor in Environmental Conditions
Keep environmental conditions in mind when you’re storing certain items. Don’t store paper records or important documents in damp areas such as basements, crawl spaces, or any other areas that are susceptible to moisture. You should also avoid storing these items in the attic, which can get too hot for some items.
Store temperature-sensitive items such as water-based finishes and wood glue in areas that won’t freeze over time. Keep chisels and saws in dry environments to prevent rusting. Consider climate-controlled storage solutions for items such as wine or vintage clothing.
Consider Accessibility and Structural Stability
Factor in safety and convenience when you begin organizing your storage spaces. Read more below.
- Consider weight distribution: Be aware of the weight capacity of your storage areas, especially in attics and on shelves.
- Know your attic’s limits: Attics that feature dimensional lumber joists typically have a weight limit of about 20 pounds per square foot. If your attic floor is made of two-by-four trusses, you should store your items elsewhere.
- Prioritize frequently used items: Store everyday essentials within reach to improve efficiency and reduce the risk of accidents.
Consider using mobile storage solutions such as rolling shelves to maximize accessibility and distribute weight more evenly.
Using a Shed for Storage
If you plan to store items in a shed, make sure the structure is sound and can support your items safely. Read more below.
- Check local regulations: Consult your building department about permits and setback requirements before you begin construction.
- Choose the right foundation: Use pressure-treated posts or concrete blocks to construct smaller sheds. Larger sheds may require poured concrete slabs.
- Consider assembly options: Decide whether you should complete construction as a do-it-yourself project or hire professionals to handle it. You can also invest in pre-fabricated shed models.
- Plan for delivery and placement: Make sure you can deliver your supplies to the area you have planned for the shed.
Consider how much insulation and ventilation the shed needs, especially if you plan to store temperature-sensitive items inside it. Add shelves, hooks, and pegboards to organize the shed’s interior more efficiently.
Under-Deck Storage
You may be able to store items under a deck that has sufficient clearance underneath. Assess the area first to make sure the ground is reasonably level, and that there is adequate height for storage. If there is, you can create a floor using crushed stone. Enclose the space using siding or lattice to protect items from the elements. Consider adding a water diversion system such as corrugated plastic or metal sheeting under the deck to keep everything dry. Finally, install an access door so you have easy entry to your new storage space. Complete the construction by adding security features such as locks.
Attic Storage
Attics are ideal places to store certain items, so long as there aren’t severe temperature fluctuations. Keep the tips below in mind:
- Install proper access: Follow guidelines if you’re installing pull-down attic stairs, and use the recommended fasteners. Make sure you maintain any required fire barriers.
- Perform regular maintenance: Inspect your attic stairs annually. Tighten any loose hardware and check for signs of wear.
- Prioritize garage attics: Use the attic space above your garage to avoid disrupting your home’s insulation.
Use labeled storage bins to keep the attic organized. Store heavier items on lower shelves or close to access points to prevent injuries.