Winter Garage Storage: 13 Critical Items to Keep Inside for Safety

Update Understanding Winter Garage Storage Risks As winter approaches, homeowners often find themselves reassessing their garage storage methods. Garages can easily turn into catch-all spaces, but understanding what can and cannot be stored is crucial for safety. When temperatures drop and humidity rises, certain items can deteriorate quickly or even pose dangerous risks. Experts like Minnesota home inspector Ruben Saltzman emphasize that a garage functions much like an unheated shed. Therefore, anything that cannot withstand freezing conditions should either be stored indoors or moved to a climate-controlled environment. Some surprising items that are not suited for garage storage during winter include: What You Shouldn’t Store in Your Garage Items like propane tanks and oily rags top the list of hazardous materials. Propane tanks, often overlooked in garage storage, are highly flammable and prone to gas leaks if stored improperly. Instead, ensure these tanks remain outside and away from ignition sources. Similarly, oily rags can result in spontaneous combustion if allowed to sit in a pile. Gasoline is another dangerous item to store in your garage. Due to fluctuating temperatures, gasoline can deteriorate in plastic containers, creating fire hazards and potential engine problems when spring arrives. A good practice is to empty the fuel from gas-powered tools before winter sets in. Painting a Clear Picture Not many homeowners realize that paints and solvents are not winter-ready. Cold conditions can cause them to separate or become unusable. Water-based paints, in particular, become thick or even freeze. In fact, experts recommend keeping these items in a warmer area, like a closet or basement, until the temperatures rise. The Risks of Cleaning Supplies Cleaning chemicals can degrade in a garage setting, leading to leaks and potential fires. As tempting as it is to stack partially used bottles of cleaning supplies in the garage, experts suggest relocating them to a cooler, dry space. Remember, pests that invade the garage to escape the cold could also get into food supplies that aren't properly stored elsewhere. Increased Safety Measures Home improvement experts suggest that creating effective storage solutions within your garage can allow you to maximize space while ensuring safety. Installing shelving systems and cabinets keeps dangerous items like paints and fuels organized and out of reach of children. Moreover, at the start of winter, consider implementing insulation methods to protect valuable tools and equipment. Check all storage items for their condition before winter hits. This includes ensuring your power tools are properly drained of any fuel or liquids. Common issues like brake parts and hoses on pressure washers can freeze and crack. Assessing your equipment can save costly repairs when spring rolls around. Creating a Safe and Functional Garage Environment The holiday season can bring a plethora of decorations and electronics. Many Christmas lights and gadgets don’t fare well in freezing conditions, leading to potential misfires or malfunctions when the holidays come to an end. Before winter hits, move your electronics inside to ensure they remain in top shape. It's also advisable to avoid leaving food storage in the garage, as canned goods can burst if frozen. Properly storing your supplies indoors not only preserves their quality but also enhances your overall organization. Actionable Tips for Winter Garage Storage Use Insulated Cabinets: Insulated storage options for paints and chemicals can protect them from extreme cold. Evaluate Temperature Control: If you’re storing sensitive items, consider investing in heating elements or insulation for your garage. Check Safety Equipment: Make sure fire extinguishers are functional and readily accessible in case of accidents. Avoiding common garage storage mistakes not only promotes safety but also preserves your valuable items for use in the new season ahead. Stay Proactive This Winter By taking steps to safeguard your garage environment, you can ensure that it remains a valuable part of your home through the inclement winter months. Implementing simple storage solutions will make managing equipment and tools easier, while providing peace of mind as the temperatures drop. As you prepare your home for winter, don't forget to regularly maintain your garage. A well-managed garage is a key part of keeping your home safe and functional throughout the colder seasons.