We all know our garages can rise to scorching temperatures in the summer. What we often don’t think about is how the heat can affect items that are stored. Some items when left out in that kind of climate with little control or reprieve can create problems like mold, mildew, pests, or other health and safety issues. Our list of 5 things that should not be stored out in the heat will provide a starting point when you’re ready to do your next garage clean out.
Propane Tanks, Flammable Materials, & Paint
Propane tanks can leak and ignite causing a scary situation. They should be stored out of the garage in a well-ventilated area away from sparks.
Be cautious with flammable and hazardous materials. Store gasoline in approved containers off floors and away from children or possible sparks. Properly dispose of hazardous materials you no longer need.
Oil-soaked rags that are stuffed away are at risk for spontaneous combustion and should never be stored in the garage. Take proper care to manage these types of rags to avoid risk of fire.
Temperatures in a garage can fluctuate drastically and that is not good news for leftover paint. Extreme heat and cold can alter a paints formula. Additionally, cement floors cause rust stains on paint cans.
Electronics & Fragile Items
Electronics do not do well under extreme temperatures and humidity. Moisture in the air and temperature fluctuation can cause computers, TVs, and other electronics to short out.
Pictures & Documents
The last thing you want are precious memories destroyed. Photos exposed to extreme temperatures and moisture may stick together or even start to grow mold. Store these items indoors to avoid water damage.
Moisture can do some serious damage to paper. Do not store any important documents in a garage. Water damage can quickly damage papers that are difficult to replace. Keep them safely indoors, preferably in a fireproof box.
Clothing, Bedding, Rugs, & Carpets
Clothes, bedding, and sleeping bags can quickly become breeding grounds for mold or little rodents and pests looking for a new home. Fabric is easily affected by temperature and humidity. Fabric items should always be stored inside the home.
Rugs and carpet are perfect little spots for pests like insects or mice to burrow. Fibers in these flooring materials can also be very vulnerable to moisture in the air leading to possible mold or other types of water damage.
Food & Wine
Storing food for your family or pets in the garage puts you at risk for uninvited rodents, pests, and insects. Food stored in uncontrolled climates can also decrease in overall shelf life and quality.
Oxidation of wine can occur with fluctuating and extreme temperatures. This can alter the taste, composition, and color making it undrinkable.
We all know how easy it is to stick things in the garage and forget about them. While it is convenient, there are items that are better suited for inside climate-controlled areas of the home or perhaps not worth keeping at all.
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