Turning your unused attic space into a storage area gives you plenty of room to keep furniture, clothes and home goods. However, committing these attic storage mistakes can cause damage to your personal possessions and home infrastructure. Visit our blog to learn about what you should never store in your attic.
Mistake #1: Storing Food
Although it may go without saying, you should never store extra food supplies in your attic. With inadequate ventilation and extreme temperature fluctuations, moisture and heat can quickly compromise the shelf life of canned and dry food. Not to mention, rats, mice and other rodents may find your food stash, which can lead to a serious infestation.
Mistake #2: Storing Delicate Fabrics and Important Papers
When it comes to attic storage, moisture is your worst enemy. Even if there are no signs of a water leak, humidity promotes the growth of mold and mildew and can damage any stored furniture that is not properly sealed. Upholstered furniture, rugs and fine linens may also be susceptible to a moth infestation. Plus, attic conditions can cause discoloration and staining of important documents, photos, books and artwork.
Mistake #3: Storing Flammable Liquids
Paint, turpentine, cleaning products, gasoline and other hazardous chemicals should never be stored in your attic space. Because temperatures fluctuate, the expansion and contraction of these flammable liquids can cause combustion, a chemical process in which a fuel reacts with oxygen and gives off heat. In the case of an incomplete combustion, toxic carbon monoxide may be produced, which can cause dizziness, vomiting and even death. In complete combustion, the flammable liquids ignite and rapidly burn, causing extensive property damage as flames spread throughout your home.
Mistake #4: Storing Electronics
Extreme heat and moisture can wreak havoc on even the most well-made electronics. Not to mention, if a rodent infestation occurs, your stored electronics and electrical wires may become chew toys for mice, rats and squirrels.
Mistake #5: Storing Heavy Items
It might be tempting to stack up heavy boxes or unused furniture in your attic, but be cautious about piling on too much weight. Some attics do not have a full floor, and heavy objects could eventually fall through drywall, compromising your ceilings, and endangering the household members who are living under the attic space. Even when flooring is present, avoid overloading any areas to ensure safe storage.
Besides keeping the abovementioned items out of your attic, you should also make sure the space is kept clean and pest-free before storing seasonal decorations, housewares and other belongings. Fortunately, Atticare provides attic cleaning and rodent exclusion services to residents throughout the San Francisco Bay Area, Greater Los Angeles and Northern and Central New Jersey. To get your attic storage-ready, contact us today.
