storage
Tips For Managing Your Home’s Storage Area
In this post we will look at a great way to increase the storage area in your home. Many people have accumulated lots of “stuff” and it can clutter your house which is annoying. With this scenario, we want to be sure that those items are not damaged as it wouldn’t be very nice to find out later that the contents have been damaged by water or moisture.
One place that many people overlook for storage is their garage. Usually the garage is more vulnerable to water damage so if you are concerned about that then you can put down some pallets on the ground or get some garage flooring mats.
If you have an attic that isn’t currently functional, why not made some small changes so that it can handle some storage needs? Often times it can be as simple as just putting some plastic down.
Be careful putting your storage in confined areas like the shed in your backyard. If there isn’t enough airflow and there is more exposure to dampness in the air then you will likely be a victim of mildew. It’s amazing how quickly clothing can rot, even tough materials like boots.
Unfinished basements are similar to garage floors, you may want to put down some pallets or you can also use the garage flooring mats if your floor is concrete. Basements don’t get as hot during the summer so you’re not as likely to find mold.
In any case one of the most important things you should do is make sure a couple times a year you visit your storage and open up the bags and boxes for a day to air out. This will make a big difference towards keeping them from rotting with mold or mildew.
Of course, the other option is downsizing via throwing things out or donating items to thrift stores. Many people throw out too much though and end up needing things later. It’s tricky to know sometimes what you will actually use later and what will just sit around collecting dust.…
Custom Homes – Storage Space Can Make Or Break a New Home Design Or Home Addition
Where are we going to put everything? That’s a common question when looking at buying a new home that doesn’t have adequate storage or space. People love their stuff but hate clutter. It’s a problem that is best solved at the design stage.
As the population ages and home sizes trend smaller, storage space becomes infinitely more important when designing a new home or home addition. Even if you don’t see the need personally, it’s best to keep your home’s resale value in mind.
People love to save! And over time, people’s stuff accumulates and they grow more attached. They won’t buy a home without the storage space they need.
Give a Clear Message to Your Designer or Architect
Over the years of working with people as they get their new home or home addition concept out of their minds and onto paper, I’ve learned that it’s often difficult to convey their real needs to an architect. Their desire for space and tidiness gets trumped by the “glitter” of more visible and tangible aspects of a home’s design.
You must get specific about what you want. Don’t leave storage space up to the designer without making it very clear what you want and why. Then let your designer use her creativity to bring it about.
Specific Storage Considerations
I hope you’re convinced about the value of creating ample storage! Here are several ways to solve storage problems in your home’s design.
CLOSETS:
Both the size and number of closets are critical. Walk in closets where possible are best. Hallway closets are always desirable. Consider interior closet designs as well that really maximize the storage and use capabilities of the closets.
KITCHEN PANTRY:
The size isn’t as important as the value of having one. But the smaller the pantry, the greater the need for excellent design of the space. Separate rooms are desirable but cabinet pantries can also work.
LAUNDRY ROOM:
The laundry is not often considered as storage space but usually ends up as a storage room! For this reason, designing the laundry with storage in mind is wise.
GARAGE:
Cars, boats, RVs, and other recreational vehicles can really clutter up your property without providing for their storage. Great design can make these “toys” almost disappear. Also, with forethought, you can design in extra storage for other items at the same time.
ATTIC & BASEMENT:
Many newer homes and certain markets do not have basements and attics. If you’re designing a new home or addition, look for ways to utilize these as they can be very valuable for storage. And be sure to design in easy access to them.
Convenience and Resale Value
Keeping storage space high on your priority list will keep a great home design from going sour on you. If left to an afterthought, it’ll become all you think about later on. Don’t let that happen to you!…