Storage | Lacombe Storage Center

Covered RV Storage Pros and Cons

November 29, 2023/in Recent Posts /by SusanJane Sage

Covered RV storage

Covered RV Storage Pros and Cons
When you hit the open road, an RV can be a fulfilling investment, but when you aren’t out enjoying
nature, you need to consider how to protect and store your prized possession.
Do you opt for covered storage where your RV will be safe from the elements? Or do you choose
outdoor storage, where you can save on storage costs? It’s a tough decision and one that requires
consideration. Here’s a look at the pros and cons of using covered RV storage.

The Pros
Protection from the Environment
Many RV owners consider protecting their unit from moisture and hail, but according to Red Seal RV
Parts Technician Billy Buffin, RV owners need to first consider the damage caused by UV rays. “Both summer and winter UV rays weaken plastic, rubber and vinyl which makes your RV susceptible to moisture and hail. “I’ve seen vent and AC covers crack during light hailstorms that they are designed to withstand all because sun damage made them brittle. I’ve also seen awnings disintegrate after a couple years and tires crack in 5 years because of sun damage.” Billy also cautions that skylights are also made of plastic and after prolonged UV exposure become more susceptible to damage.

Reduced Maintenance Cost
The cost of covered RV may be more than offset by maintenance costs that result from prolonged UV exposure and severe weather.

Higher Resale Value
The rising cost of new RVs has also resulted in the rising cost of used RVs that are in good condition. An RV that has been sheltered when it’s not in use will get top dollar because it doesn’t have sun fade or
worn damaged parts.

Road trip

Cons
Higher Cost
Indoor storage facilities are generally more expensive than outdoor storage options. The added benefits
and protection come at a premium, making it more expensive. Lacombe Storage’s rates for covered RV
start at $180/month and we’ve done our best to make sure our covered RV is competitively priced.

More Information About Storing Your RV at Lacombe Storage

Enhanced Security
Our facility includes surveillance cameras, electronically gated access, and onsite management so your
RV is well protected. You don’t have to be as concerned about theft or vandalism.

Easy Access
Tenants can access our RV storage facilities seven days a week from 6 am to 11 pm using their smart
phone. If you need access outside of yard hours, you can talk to our onsite staff about changing your
access privileges.

Flexible Parking Stall Size
Our covered stalls can accommodate up to a 45 foot RV. This is the same for our uncovered RV stalls. Need a pull though site? We have designed our covered RV, so this is possible. Just be aware you will be paying a premium for this feature because you will essentially be using two stalls.
When it comes to the pros and cons of covered vs outdoor storage, take time to determine your priorities. Is cost a concern or are you willing to spend more to keep your RV protected and ready for the
road for years to come.

Have any questions for Billy? You can reach him at gatorrvparts@gmail.com or on Facebook @gatorrvparts

~ Tamara Traub

A Guide To Summer Gear Storage

September 22, 2023/in Moving Related, Recent Posts /by SusanJane Sage

A Guide to Summer Gear Storage

As the sun-soaked days of summer fade on the horizon, they leave behind the simple joy of outdoor
pursuits, from pedaling along scenic trails, to setting up camp, or gliding gracefully atop shimmering
waters—summer gifts us with a multitude of cherished experiences.
Whether you are a biker, camper, or paddler, summer gives us great pleasure. All these wonderful
activities lead to an accumulation of outdoor gear. What is your plan for storing it during the off-season?
In this guide, we delve into preserving these cherished adventures—cleaning, organizing, and storing
your summer gear. It’s a journey that involves not just safeguarding your possessions but also ensuring
that the magic of summer continues for years to come.

Summer Gear Storage Tips:
1. Clean Your Equipment
After every summer adventure, it’s essential to clean your equipment thoroughly. Use warm water and
mild soap to cleanse your gear, including tents and sleeping bags. Removing any dirt and ensuring
they are completely dry before storage is vital, particularly for preventing mold and mildew.
2. Choose the Right Storage Containers
Long-term storage of tents and sleeping bags should be in breathable mesh bags or cotton bags like old
pillowcases. Loosely fold these items for long-term storage instead of tightly rolling them. This allows
airflow, preventing mold and mildew growth. Remember, compressing a sleeping bag for extended
periods can damage its fill.
3. Organize Smaller Items
Store smaller items like flashlights, matches, eating utensils, plates, cookware, and more in clear storage
containers. This way, you can easily identify and access them when needed.
4. Organize Water Gear
Choose a large container to hold wetsuits, life jackets, water shoes, and other water gear. This ensures
they are kept together and protected during the off-season.
5. Follow Manufacturer Recommendations for Watercraft Storage
Store paddle boards, canoes and kayaks indoors so the winter weather will not degrade fiberglass,
plastic, fabric or specially-coated wood hulls.

Pro Tip: keep a checklist stored with your equipment so you don’t forget anything for your camping
trips. Your list should include all items you will typically want to bring along.
Many of our clients store their summer gear in the garage or a spare closet so they can quickly pack up
the car for a weekend getaway. But if these items are filling your halls and other living spaces self
storage is an option that comes in many sizes to accommodate these items in the colder months.
Call us now at Lacombe Storage where we prioritize your storage needs — 1-855-795-8584

Pro Tips for Spring Cleaning

March 16, 2023/in Moving Related, Recent Posts /by SusanJane Sage

Pro Tips for Spring Cleaning

Spring Cleaning on Your Mind?

But Where to Start?

Experts say spring cleaning has several benefits — a clean home can improve your health and make you
happier. But were to start? Decluttering is the first step, but can be a daunting task. Here are a few
decluttering tricks from the staff at Lacombe Storage to help you get started.
1) Start by decluttering small spaces like a drawer or cabinet and as you gain confidence tackle
bigger spaces.
2) Set yourself up for success by tidying your home slowly in short, manageable spurts. For
example, aim to spend 20 minutes cleaning each day instead of doing it for an entire day or over
a weekend.
3) Honor your natural pace by cleaning as you go about your day. This can look like doing the
dishes immediately after cooking dinner or decluttering your closet while you put away your
laundry.
Do you have a sentimental attachment to items? As such, the thought of decluttering
your possessions may feel overwhelming. Here are some tricks to help you come to terms
with letting go of some belongings:

Tips for spring cleaning

1) Try the one in, one out rule. This principle is simple yet surprisingly effective: For every new item
you bring into your home, something you already own must go.
2) Use the inverted decluttering technique coined by author Gretchen Rubin in her book “Outer
Order, Inner Calm.” Instead of focusing on items you want to keep, identify the worst or least
useful things you own. You’ll find clarity and satisfaction in singling out what no longer serves
you.
3) Take a cue from author Emily Ley and ask yourself if an item is the best, favourite or necessary.
This will encourage you to ditch duplicates, hold on to the necessities, and appreciate the
fabulous stuff you already own.
4) Ask yourself if your possessions spark joy. Popularized by Japanese decluttering expert Marie
Kondo this strategy will help you evaluate whether to keep an item or get rid of it based on how
it makes you feel.
5) Use a cut-and-dry trick like the “90/90” rule. Coined by Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan
Nicodemus of The Minimalists, with this rule you to ask yourself two questions: Have you used it
in the past 90 days? If not, will you use it in the next 90 days? If you answer “no” to both
questions, it’s time to let it go – gift it, donate it, or throw it out.
What tip works to get you started on a decluttering or cleaning spree? Share those tips on our Facebook
Page

Winter Moving Tips

December 28, 2022/in Recent Posts /by SusanJane Sage

Pro Tips for Moving and storing

The trailer or back of the truck typically isn’t the warmest place on a cold day and definitely not ideal for your fragile items or electronics. The transition from a warm to a cold environment can cause things to break. If you are going to move or store anything fragile or any electronics, be sure they are well wrapped in something that is going to keep them from breaking and offer some insulation

Here are some other dos and don’t for moving in the cold:

Do Protect Items from the Cold

Protect your stored items with bubble wrap

Extreme temperatures can make certain items more susceptible to damage. Make sure to use extra wrapping, bubble wrap, thick towels or blankets to protect breakable items and electronics. Remember that containers with liquids can freeze so avoid putting them in the back of the moving truck or into a storage unit. Things like electronics are fine being stored cold as long as you let them cool down and warm up gradually. Consider taking these items with you in the cab of the vehicle to ensure they arrive safely. Check out our YouTube video on packing up breakable dishware.

Do Chose Cardboard Boxes Over Plastic Totes

Everyone loves plastic totes, but there are some drawbacks to using them especially during colder months. Plastic becomes slippery and brittle in the cold making it more susceptible to sliding and falling. And when it hits the ground, it breaks. Cardboard on the other hand has insulating properties for your breakables and its surface doesn’t change during cold weather. This makes it a safer choice for stacking and storing your belongings during the winter.

Do Seal Your Boxes with Packing Tape Instead of Masking Tape

Some adhesives get brittle and lose their stickiness in the cold and this is especially true of masking tape. Packing tape once applied to the box won’t release when it gets cold so you don’t have to worry about the box breaking open.

Don’t Pack at the Last Minute

Leaving packing and cleaning to the last minute can make the moving day more chaotic for everyone involved. The sooner you can get things organized, the easier and faster it will be on the moving day. A good declutter before packing starts will be a big help to know what you really want to pack and unpack. We have a little video on decluttering a closet on our YouTube channel.

Do Make Sure Walkways are Clear of Ice and Snow

Clearing sidewalks before a move

We make sure that our yards and the entry way to all storage units is free and clear of ice and snow for your safety. You should do the same at home before you start removing boxes from your home. It hurts to slip and fall, never mind having a box land on top of you.

Don’t Move in the Dark

Night comes early during the Canadian winter and moving in the dark can be unsafe for you and your belongings. Try to work out your schedule so you are moving earlier in the day while it’s still light outside. Please also keep in mind that while our yards are lit at night the insides of storage units are not.

Have a safe move and make sure to bring something warm to drink. If you need to warm up you are welcome to stop by the office. We have someone onsite during the day Monday to Friday.

Jumping The Self Storage Line

August 17, 2022/in Recent Posts /by SusanJane Sage

Jumping The Self Storage Line

Self storage businesses across Alberta have been getting busy. So, finding a storage unit at the
last minute has become much harder.

Here’s how to get a leg up on your fellow storage unit hunters.

As soon as you are aware that you need storage, start looking. It costs nothing to look around.

Remember price isn’t everything
Check reviews and also see how the business connects with its customers. Is communication
strictly online? Do calls go to a remote call center? Are staff knowledgeable about storage and
the local community?

Pro Tip:
Is there someone onsite if you need help? Moving and storing your belongings can be stressful
and having knowledgeable help available can make or break your storage experience

Be flexible
Could you take a slightly bigger or smaller unit? Using an online storage calculator will help you
choose the right size for your belongings.

Plan Ahead

Pro Tip:
If there isn’t a storage unit in the size you need ask about making up the size you need by using
two smaller units.

Get your name on a waiting list
A good self storage business will call if you are on a waiting list and a storage unit comes
available.

Pro Tip
There will be times when a unit comes available before storage staff get to people on the
waiting list. That is why keeping an eye on their website can be a huge advantage. Using the
storage company’s online rental platform can help you skip the waiting list, because you can
often move yourself in online before the storage unit is taken by another renter.

Start a conversation with the storage staff
Storage staff can take care of you over email to help you make the most of your time.
Also, don’t be afraid to call the storage office. Most offices don’t mind if you call and check in
from time to time. A good storage operator is there to do what they can to help you!

Storage Tetris – Packing A Storage Unit

July 14, 2022/in Recent Posts /by webdev

How to pack to a storage unit

How do you play? you ask. Well, we’re going to try to explain the best we can.

First rule in this game: When you rent a storage unit make sure to get the right size. Too small or too large will mean your belongings don’t fit or you will wind up paying for empty space. A quick tip hear is to use our storage calculator.

Pro tip: Once you have rented the right sized storage unit put a plastic drop sheet on the floor to protect your belongings from moisture that can come up through concrete floors or underneath the roll up door.

Now it’s time to start packing your unit: Placing items like furniture and appliances should be considered first. The best way to play Storage Tetris is to put appliances and large furniture like couches against the far back wall first. Take the backs off loveseats and chairs (if they are designed to do so). This makes it so these furnishings can be stacked.

Once you have those heavier items along the back wall of your storage unit it’s now time to place things like mattresses along the side walls. A little extra advise we found can be checked out in this Museum blog on packing and storing.

Pro tip: put in mattress in mattress bags to protect them from damage during storage.

Place bigger heavier totes or boxes just inside where the mattresses are leaning against the wall. Next stack lighter weighted boxes onto of the larger ones.

Pro tip: to keep everyone accessing the storage unit safely only stack things as high as the shortest person can safely reach.

Work toward the center of the unit flowing forward. Remember to put items you will not be needing toward the back and items you will frequently need toward the front of the storage unit. As in the game of Tetris, fill gaps with similar shaped items to create tight stacks that maximize the space. Shelving units can be used to store boxes. This also helps free up the floor space for more awkward shaped items. The “Tetris” effect is a great read from a company called You Move Me.

Pro tip: make sure to leave yourself a center isle.

Pro tip: Try not to place cardboard boxes near the front of the unit as rain and/or snow can leak in. Once you’ve got the unit loaded cover as much as you can with a dust cover to keep it clean and ready to use.

Now you are ready to pack and store your belongings successfully. Remember heavy items at the back along with items you won’t need any time soon and lighter or frequently needed items at the front. If you something you need that we don’t carry, please check out our friends over at Nowco Home Hardware.

Once you are ready to go, head over to our rental page and secure your spot!

Protecting Items In Storage

June 6, 2022/in Recent Posts /by webdev

Protecting Items with Dust Cover

You’ve made the decision to place your items in storage and now that you have everything
ready go, here are some simple tips to protect what you are storing:

Confounded Condensation
Depending on the weather extremes and humidity in your area, it is possible for condensation
to build up on your stored goods which can cause water and mold damage. A good option to
avoid damage from prolonged moisture exposure is to put a plastic drop sheet on the floor of
your storage unit before placing items in the unit. Using pallets to put your belongings on is
even better, especially if you are storing goods for longer periods of time. Also, leave some
‘breathing space’ (about two finger widths) between stacked items so fresh air circulates
between your belongings.

Man with moving boxes

Don’t Over Stack
When placing boxed items in storage, the temptation is to stack as high as you can reach. Boxes
are only designed to take so much weight and over time might give way under the stress of
over stacking. This can result in entire stacks toppling over. If the items in those boxes are
fragile… well, you get the point. You also need to consider your safety. For this reason, stacks
should only go as high as your natural reach…or the natural reach of the shortest adult
accessing the storage.

Dreaded Dust
Nobody wants to open their unit and find that everything inside is now dust covered. All that
cleaning you did to prepare your goods for storage has been potentially wasted – and let’s face
it: dust is inevitable. So why not use a couple of inexpensive plastic drop sheets to help protect
your items? Drop sheets should be draped loosely around items to encourage air flow but offer
protection from fine dust.

By using these three tips, your stored goods should remain intact, dry and dust free. Be sure to
check out the retail items available for purchase
at our locations to assist with your packing needs. We are here to help you through every step
of your rental process.
You can access more information on our blog site such as the importance of cleaning before you store, as well as make use of our handy
storage calculator to determine the correct unit size for your needs.

Extra Help

This YouTube video has a lot of good information on storage for you as well.

Ron Heizelman – Site Manager, MHS

Preparing Belongings For Storage

May 26, 2022/in Recent Posts /by webdev

Before you pack your belongings into storage, you need to get them ready. From cleaning to taking inventory, here’s how to best prepare.

Purge

If you haven’t used something in a while or no longer want an item don’t waste money storing it. Sell it or donate it to someone who will make better use of the item.

Clean everything that’s going into storage

Before you put things into storage make sure they are clean. Why is this important? If you store something while it’s dirty, it’s only going to be worse for wear when you unpack it two, four, or twelve months later. Over time things that are stored dirty can acquire a musty smell, and stains can damage fabrics. A thorough cleaning will ensure that items don’t deteriorate while in storage.

Pro tips:

Wash clothes and linens then store them in plastic bags to prevent mold and mildew.
Vacuum out the crevasses and wipe all furnishings then use an appropriate protective spray on leather and fabric upholstery. Wax wood furniture.
Wipe the inside and outside of appliances. If applicable, run a final wash cycle with vinegar. If you are storing a washer, make sure all tanks and hoses are drained. For fridges and freezers add a moisture absorbent substance like charcoal to help prevent odors. Check your local appliance stores for any other help or suggestions. https://bit.ly/3MPScxa
Wipe all sporting goods and kids’ toys including plush toys. Store plush toys in plastic bags.

Inventory what you’re storing

While you are cleaning your belongings, write down what’s going to be stored. Why is this important? An inventory will help you determine what size storage unit you need and how to organize that storage unit.

Pro tips:

Our storage calculator web page allows you to enter an inventory of your belongings and calculates what size storage unit you need. You can also email this list to yourself right from our storage calculator page.
Add a brief description including the item’s brand, serial number, model number, and if there is any damage to your inventory list.
Email a copy of your inventory list to your property insurance agent and advise them that you are putting these items into storage. This will help ensure that you have coverage for these possession’s and speed up the claims process should disaster make this necessary.

Make sure you get the right size of storage unit

Our easy-to-use storage calculator does the math for you. Once you’ve entered an inventory of your possessions into the calculator the graph on the right side of this web page tells you what size storage unit you need. You can then go ahead and book your storage unit either by clicking on the Rent Now button on our website, or if you need help you can call us and talk to someone in our office.

Pro tip:

Right now, we are experiencing high demand for storage units and have a waiting list for many sizes. Renting online allows you to quickly see and rent any size that is available. This is kind of like a gamer’s cheat code for self-storage. If the size you want isn’t available don’t give up. People come and go from self-storage units daily. So, call our office and get on the waitlist right away.

Now you will need to pack your belongings. How you pack an item determines how well it survives a move, storage and then being unpacked.

Head over to our YouTube channel to see us packing up Sues china into the properly made boxes and inserts.

Watch for our next blog — How to pack your belongings like a pro so they are in good condition when you take them out of storage.

Porch Pirates, Are They Real?

November 24, 2021/in Recent Posts /by webdev

Porch Pirates

Keep Your Packages Safe
Pirates have always been something that appear in story books. But lately piracy has become
very real for a lot of online holiday shoppers. The name Porch Pirates sounds cute and maybe
you’re thinking of all the kiddies showing up on your doorstep at Halloween, but these are not
your neighbor’s children in costume. Porch Pirates steal packages from door steps and porches.
Sometimes these thieves will even follow a delivery vehicle and scoop the package right after
it’s been dropped on the doorstep.

As of Sept of this year, nearly one quarter of online shoppers have felt the sting of porch piracy.
The average value a stolen package is about $113.

Some shoppers that have fallen victim to Porch Piracy before have taken it upon themselves to
fight back. People are putting out boxes full of glitter, dog poo or the cat litter to “be taken.”
While we admire people’s creativity why even give thieves a chance?

Between 2010 to 2017, there was a 581% rise in reports of packages stolen off doorsteps. With
porch piracy on the rise, we’d like to offer a solution for keeping your packages safe.
Our office is insured to receive your online orders and we offer this service free of charge to
everyone on our community. It’s our way of helping you have a happy holiday season. For other Self Storage ideas and happenings check out our Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/lacombestoragecenter/

How Do You Use This Free Service?
Step 1
When you are online shopping use our office address as the shipping address for your package:
Lacombe Storage: 4014 52 Avenue, Lacombe, AB T4L 2J7

Step 2
Call our office and let us know your name, your phone number and when the package is
expected.
Lacombe: 403-782-1455

Step 3
When the package arrives, our office will text you a pic of the package, text back an day and
time when you can pick it up.
Need to keep the package away from prying eyes? No problem, we can hold the package until
you need it. Just let us know how long you need us to hold it. (Please keep in mind our holiday
hours).

If you are looking for other holiday ideas or hacks check out another one of our Blogs https://bit.ly/3l8mzCZ

Christmas Storage Hacks

December 29, 2020/in Recent Posts, Uncategorized /by webdev

It seems as though Christmas has only just arrived, but here we are thinking of ways to organize your decorations as you put them away.

Of course, our first answer would be to send it to us for safe keeping. But we know not everyone can do that, so we are happy to share some holiday storage hacks we use in our own homes. Read more

Posts

Covered RV Storage Pros and Cons

A Guide To Summer Gear Storage

Pro Tips for Spring Cleaning

Winter Moving Tips

Jumping The Self Storage Line

Storage Tetris – Packing A Storage Unit

Protecting Items In Storage

Preparing Belongings For Storage

Porch Pirates, Are They Real?

Christmas Storage Hacks

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WE LOVE TO HEAR FROM CUSTOMERS WHO ARE HAPPY WITH THEIR SELF-STORAGE EXPERIENCE

Lacombe Storage Center

Drayton Valley Storage

Medicine Hat Storage

WE LOVE TO HEAR FROM
CUSTOMERS WHO ARE HAPPY
WITH THEIR SELF-STORAGE
EXPERIENCE