If there is one room in the house that is used as a dumping ground, it’s more than likely going to be your garage. It can be a really convenient storage space, but is it best utilised to keep those old electronics, the kids bikes and other bits like tools, half cans of paint etc!
We’ve analysed the pros and cons of storing your possessions in your garage compared to a dedicated storage unit. And we’ll give our advice on what is the best option for you.
The Pros Of Using A Garage
1) It’s a cost-effective solution
Possibly the most obvious reason! Choosing to store your belongings in your garage isn’t actually going to cost you any extra. It’s likely to have been already paid for when your purchased your home. So you might as well make the most of it while you have it. Your home insurance will also likely cover the belongings you keep in your garage as well, meaning you won’t have to fork out for extra insurance cover.
2) It’s convenient
The benefit of storing in your garage is you can basically access it whenever you need. It’s part of the house! There is no need to hop in the car and drive anywhere, as it’s right outside. You don’t even have to worry about opening time or access hours. If you are wanting to have a late night sort out, you can. Which makes a garage really convenient for your needs.
The Cons Of Using A Garage
1) Garages are valuable
A garage with a lot of space can add a lot of value to your home. If you are planning on selling, make sure to tidy and clear it! Storing your car in your garage can help to reduce the cost of insurance. It’s actually really beneficial to use it for it’s intended purpose, keeping your car safe! So you arguable don’t want to waste the precious storage space on something of little value.
2) Its a slippery slope
As previously mentioned, the convenience of using a garage as a storage space can be your downfall. If you have somewhere in your house where you can put absolutely everything you can’t find a place for, you’ll never do any decluttering. And you’ll find you will never actually get rid of any of your belongings.
3) It’s not a secure space
This may largely depend on your garage, but we bet it’s not the most secure place to keep your valuable possessions. It’s likely there isn’t CCTV in operation, to keep an eye on your belongings 24/7. Or an alarm system. The chances are, there’s a better alternative, especially if you are wanting to store stuff of sentimental meaning or high value.
The Pros Of Choosing A Self Storage Space
1) Access your belongings whenever you need them!
While the storage space may not be directly connected to your home, there are a lot of conveniently located storage facilities. It’s worth checking access hours, as some facilities only operate during office hours.
At RedSpot, you have 24 hour access, 7 days a week. Meaning if you have the sudden motivation to do some late night decluttering, no one’s stopping you.
2) Your possessions couldn’t be safer
Self Storage facilities must have top range security measures in place, otherwise no one would store their belongings with them, and they would go out of business.
At RedSpot, we have a number of different measures in place to help keep your belongings safe and secure…
- 24 Hour CCTV
- High -security fencing
- Lighting
- Insurance
3) A cost-effective solution
When you store with us, you only pay for the amount you use. There are no long term contracts or commitments. And when you’re ready to move out, all we need is 2 weeks notice! It’s that easy.
The Cons Of A Self Storage Space
1) It’s not free
Storing in your garage is free. There’s no two ways about it. Using self storage does come at a cost. However, you are paying for the added security measures that will keep your belongings safe. You can also take advantage of long-term discounts too!
2) You’ll be forced to declutter
Although this could be seen as a positive. Not everyone finds it easy to sort through their possessions and decide what to keep, store and throw away. If you find yourself needing a helping hand, check out our decluttering blog, which has some great hints and tips.
3) It’s not attached to your house
Whenever you want to move some of your stuff into your storage unit, the chances are you’ll have to get into your car to do so. Which is always a bit of a faff. Then you have to deal with locks and pin codes etc which can take up time you may not have.
Our Final Thoughts
To round up… Both garages and self storage units have their benefits. They are both practical, and great if you are wanting to clear come space in your home. If you have a lot of sentimental items you need looking after, a self storage space is definitely the better option. Although it may cost more, all those security measures you can benefit from will help to keep your belongings safe and sound for as long as they are in storage.
