Category: Car Storage

If you’re an avid RVer and you live and travel in Canada, chances are climate conditions just don’t permit you to enjoy your RV all year round. When you’re facing cold rainy seasons or deep winter weather every year, getting your RV properly winterized and ready for seasonal RV storage is a necessity.

Once you’ve selected a site where you’d like to store your recreational vehicle, there’s plenty of preparation work to do before you put it away for the season. To help you get started, we’ve gathered some essential tips to help you keep your RV in tip-top shape for RV storage.

Clean and wax your vehicle’s exterior surfaces

Exposure to sunlight can cause a lot of hazards in the long run. It can fade your vehicle’s paint job, and do damage to its rubber and vinyl components. To help prevent this, apply a thorough wash and a good coat of wax to your RV before storing it.

Reseal any tears, cracks, or openings in the body and roof of your RV

It doesn’t take much for the smallest opening to create a world of trouble. If undetected or untreated, water leaks can create mildew formation, and even structural damage to your motorhome. If you discover any suspected openings in your vehicle, seal them properly before putting it in storage.

Remove Food from the RV

It’s important to remove food or spices and such in the RV and because food and spices attract rodents and insects.

Leave rooftop vents open

Don’t like the musty smell of a dank basement? You can eliminate the potential of this unwanted odour by leaving your RV’s overhead vents open, with a vent cover installed overtop to keep the rain out.

Screen or cover any vent or pipe openings to the outside

Overlooking these areas is an open invitation to any pest large enough to infiltrate. Place special fly screens over appliances and gas vents, and pipe ends, to block pesky insects like wasps. Use expanding foam or silicone to plug openings underneath your vehicle to keep out rodents. Don’t forget to leave traps inside the RV, too, just in case!

Pay attention to security when you store your RV

Getting a specialty lock designed for your vehicle type is a smart investment, and acts as an effective theft deterrent. Thieves tend to look for the easiest targets, so make sure your RV utilizes high-quality security devices. Choose a RV storage facility with onsite security features, like surveillance cameras and high-powered outdoor lighting. Additionally, you should also keep appropriate insurance on your vehicle, in case anything happens to it while it’s in storage.

Keep your tires fully inflated to the recommended maximum pressure

To prevent weakening during storage, keep your RV’s tires inflated to the maximum pressure recommended by the manufacturer, and cover them to avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight. Give your tires a good soapy wash to get rid of the build-up they’ve acquired on the road. If possible, especially if you’re storing for the long term, raise your vehicle onto blocks or use lift jacks so that it’s not resting directly on the tires.

Place a wooden plank between the tires and the ground

If you’re not going to be using wheel blocks or jacks, make sure the parking surface you plan to use is firm and even. If the ground is made of asphalt, leave a piece of plywood underneath the tires to prevent surface oils from wearing on the tire rubber over time. You sure won’t want an unexpected blowout next time you hit the road!

Keep your RV covered

If it’s made of breathable material, it’s a good idea to place a cover over your motorhome to protect it from dirt, and from the elements if you’re storing it outside. The breathable fabric will allow enough air flow to keep mildew from growing underneath while you’re away.

Wash your vehicle’s interiors thoroughly

Giving the inside of your RV a good wash not only prepares it for the next travel season, it also rids the vehicle of any residual food particles or odours that might attract unwanted guests. This is also a good opportunity to discover small openings to the outside which can enable any such pests to pass through, such as cracks between wires or cables. When doing your cleaning and inspection, don’t make the mistake of forgetting about cupboards, drawers, and closets. After washing, leave the RV’s interiors as dry as possible to guard against mold.

Close the window shades

Prolonged exposure to the sun can leech the colours right out of your motorhome’s interior fabric, such as carpets and upholstery. Use the daylight shades to shield your vehicle from the sun’s rays, while still allowing light inside. Having at least some light filter in will have the effect of discouraging mold growth.

Keep your cabinets and closets open

You should also prop open your refrigerator door, while you’re at it. Leaving such internal components open will prevent moisture and mould buildup while you’re away. And place a box of baking soda inside the fridge for odour control.

Take out any items from your RV which can freeze

Any liquid remaining in your vehicle can easily freeze over the winter. When it thaws, it can cause damage from bursting inside pipes, and create a huge mess. This can happen to the contents of containers, too, so remove items like liquid soap, water bottles, soda pop, cleaners, etc.

Remove your RV’s batteries

It’s important not to allow your batteries to freeze, so disconnect them and store them safely above ground in a dry, separate area with a heat source. Also, like fuses, dry cell batteries can passively consume power, even if the appliance in question is turned off. Check items like clocks and radios, and remove the batteries from these devices. This also eliminates the risk of battery corrosion, which can occur if such items are not in use for long periods of time.

On a final note, it’s still a good idea to go and check on your trailer or motorhome every once in a while, just to make sure everything is in order. This is especially true if you’re storing outdoors. After all, security cameras onsite won’t be able to alert you to things like a slow tire leak or minor damage caused by a storm. You’ll also want to verify that there are no unexpected moisture leaks or pest infiltration that occurred during your absence, so be on the lookout for signs of chewing, droppings, or water flows inside the vehicle.

By taking proactive storage measures for your vehicle, especially in combination with the occasional check-up, your RV should be just as you left it. You’ll be good to go when the travel season rolls around again!

When it comes to storing your vehicles, whether it’s a car, motorcycle, boat, or RV, self-storage can be a convenient and secure option. However, storing vehicles requires special considerations and precautions to ensure they are protected from the elements and potential damage. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with tips and best practices for vehicle self-storage, so you can keep your vehicles safe and well-maintained while they are not in use.

Choose the Right Storage Facility

Not all self-storage facilities are equipped to store vehicles. When selecting a storage facility for your vehicles, it’s important to choose one that specializes in vehicle storage or has dedicated vehicle storage options. Look for facilities that offer features such as heated units, wide aisles for easy maneuverability, and adequate security measures, such as surveillance cameras and access controls. Consider the location of the facility and its proximity to your home or other desired locations for easy access when you need to retrieve your vehicles. At U-Lock Parksville and U-Lock Burnaby locations, we offer car storage Parksville and car storage Burnaby services. If you have any questions about our car storage services, please contact us and we’ll be happy to help!

Prepare Your Vehicles for Storage

Before storing your vehicles, it’s crucial to properly prepare them to ensure they remain in good condition during their time in storage. Start by thoroughly cleaning your vehicles, both inside and outside, to remove dirt, debris, and any potential contaminants. Consider waxing the exterior and applying a coat of rust inhibitor to protect against moisture damage. Check and inflate tires to the manufacturer’s recommended levels, and fill up the gas tank to prevent condensation from forming. Disconnect the battery or use a battery maintainer to prevent battery drain. Remove any valuable items or personal belongings from the vehicles to prevent theft or damage.

Use Appropriate Vehicle Storage Covers

Using proper vehicle storage covers can help protect your vehicles from dust, dirt, and UV rays. Invest in high-quality covers that are specifically designed for the type of vehicle you are storing, whether it’s a car, motorcycle, boat, or RV. Look for covers that are breathable, water-resistant, and offer UV protection. Make sure the covers fit properly and are secured tightly to prevent wind damage or moisture from seeping in.

Consider Heated Storage Units

If you are storing sensitive or high-value vehicles, such as classic cars, vintage motorcycles, or luxury boats, consider renting a heated storage unit. Heated units offer temperature and humidity regulation, which can help prevent damage caused by extreme weather conditions, such as excessive heat, cold, or humidity. Heated storage can also protect against issues like mold, mildew, and rust, which can be detrimental to the condition of your vehicles.

Follow Maintenance Schedule for Long-Term Storage

Even when in storage, vehicles require regular maintenance to keep them in good condition. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for maintenance during long-term storage, such as changing the oil, replacing fluids, and inspecting critical components. Consider hiring a professional mechanic to perform a thorough inspection and maintenance before storing your vehicles, and again before retrieving them from storage. This can help prevent any potential issues or damage from arising due to extended periods of inactivity.

Visit and Check on Your Vehicles Regularly

It’s important to visit your stored vehicles regularly to check on their condition and address any potential issues. Schedule regular visits to your storage unit to inspect your vehicles, especially if they are in long-term storage. Check for any signs of damage, leaks, or pest infestation. Start the engines and run them for a short period to keep them lubricated and prevent issues with stale fuel. Take the time to ensure the covers are still intact and the vehicles are properly secured.

How you store a car depends on a handful of factors. How old is the car? How long will it be in storage? What is the climate like where you live? The answers to these and more questions will help you maintain the integrity of your vehicle when it is not being driven.

If you need to store a vehicle for the short term, using a storage unit to do so might be an ideal solution. To help you with this process, we answer your car storage questions and provide you with expert advice if you plan to store a car for a year or less.

1. Where Should I Store My Car?

If you only need to store a car without driving it for a month or two during a warm season, keeping your car outside with a car cover won’t do much harm. However, if you are looking to put a car away for three months or more, the best option is to store it someplace indoors and away from the elements, such as our Vancouver and Burnaby car storage or White Rock and South Surrey car storage facility.

2. Do I Need Climate Control for Vehicle Self-storage?

The majority of cars are stored in a non-climate controlled environment. We do not have extreme weather in general in Greater Vancouver so the need to store a vehicle in a climate-controlled car storage is very low.

3. How Much Does It Cost to Store a Car?

For information about the fees of storing your vehicle at our Vancouver and Burnaby car storage or White Rock and South Surrey car storage facility, please contact us for rates.

4. How Safe Is Car Storage?

Keep in mind that you are responsible for the contents of your self-storage unit, and you will need to lock it up tight to be certain that you will be the only person with access. You can rest assured, though, that our Vancouver and Burnaby car storage or White Rock and South Surrey car storage facilities are secure and well-maintained. We take the security of our customers’ property very seriously.

5. Is Working on a Car in a Storage Unit Allowed?

No; unfortunately working on a car in a storage unit is prohibited. Working on cars on site creates issues with oil and fluid spills. Besides the lack of electric power, noise, smoke, and odors are all factors that affect other customers. You should get all engine maintenance done off-site before storing your vehicle in a storage unit.

6. How Do I Prepare a Car for Storage?

There are a few things you should do before storing your car in a storage unit. For storage under a year in length, review our recommended steps to prepare your vehicle below.

1. Perform Basic Car Storage Maintenance

Before you put your vehicle into storage, do some basic maintenance to protect your investment.

• Fill the tank with premium high-octane gasoline to help prevent condensation. With a full tank of gas, the chances of moisture forming in the tank or lines are greatly reduced.
• Add a fuel stabilizer to increase the longevity of the fuel in your tank for up to 12 months. Be sure to read any manufacturer specifications before adding.
• Remove the vehicle’s battery to prevent acids from escaping and damaging the car. Most batteries do not store well during the winter and all batteries discharge over time.
• Change or top off the oil, brake fluid and antifreeze before storing.
  

2. Protect Your Car’s Finish and Avoid Pests

Many people underestimate the importance of this next step. Placing a dirty, unkempt car into storage is risky in that you could damage the car’s finish or attract unwanted critters. Take the time to do the following to your car before storage.

• Wash and wax your vehicle. Do not forget door jambs and under the hood.
• Vacuum and dust the interior and apply a conditioner to any vinyl surfaces. This will not only protect your vinyl from drying out, but it can also help prevent any foul odors from developing and thus deter rodents and pests from taking up residence. If you plan on steam cleaning, do so far enough in advance for the interior to completely dry.
• Give the car’s exterior a final wipe down once it reaches its storage location. This step eliminates any final traces of dust, debris or salt.
• Use a car cover to further protect the car’s exterior finish while in storage.

3. Prevent Tires From Flat Spotting

Tires can be the first thing to cause issues when storing a car for an extended period. Flat spotting occurs when a tire flattens over time due to contact with the ground. If you plan to store a car for more than a month, consider resting the vehicle on blocks or jack stands.

If you are looking for a Vancouver and Burnaby car storage or White Rock and South Surrey car storage facility, please call or visit U-Lock Mini Storage and inquire about our car storage facilities and rates!

If you plan to store your car in a storage unit for longer than a month, you are going to need to do a few things to get it ready. Otherwise, you will have flat tires, a dead battery…and that is just to name a few of the problems that you will encounter. 

Here are tips you can follow to prepare your vehicle for storage.

Wash and Wax the Exterior of Your Car

If you do not clean and protect the paint of your car, any dirt or contaminants left on it will cause corrosion, and turn into rust.

Clean and Vacuum the Interior

Again, dirt and debris can cause damage if left to sit for an extended period of time. Place a pan of mothballs inside the vehicle after vacuuming it to keep bugs away.

Top Off Fluids

A full fluid reservoir will leave no space for condensation to occur.

Change Oil and Filter

Old oil will become acidic and eat away at the inside of your engine. However, fresh oil will take much longer to break down. By changing the oil and filter before storing, your engine seals should remain in good condition throughout the storage period.

Grease Steering and Suspension Components

A full grease service will keep the seals and rubber bushings in your suspension from drying out while the car is in storage.

Disconnect the Battery in Older Vehicles

If your battery is left connected, its charge will completely deplete, causing one or more of the inner cells to go bad.

Place Battery on a Trickle Charger in Newer Vehicles

Most newer vehicles are equipped with advanced computer systems, which require a constant source of power. Without a trickle charger, the computer will have to be completely reprogrammed.

Top Off Fuel Tank and Add Fuel Stabilizer

A full tank means that there is less room for condensation; fuel stabilizer will keep the gas from breaking down and evaporating.

Make Sure the Parking Brake Is not Engaged

If your vehicle sits for an extended period of time with the parking brake on, the brake pads can rust to the rotor/drum, causing the wheel to seize. Instead, use a set of wheel chocks to keep the vehicle in place.
If you have further questions about car storage or want to book a car storage unit, please contact us at the U-Lock Mini Storage Burnaby location and our staff will be delighted to help.

Adding storage space to a garage is a great way to organize your garage and create more room. Before you begin adding anything new to your garage, you will first need to organize it by sorting your things and drafting a floor plan. Once your garage is organized, you can build some shelving and install other vertical organization systems. You can also free up some space by hanging things from the ceiling or placing them in cabinets and plastic bins.

Build Shelving

One simple way to maximize the space in your garage is by adding some shelves. You can build some floating shelves on your walls or install premade shelving. Shelves are a good choice because they are inexpensive, easier to access, and they let you take stock of your items.

• If you buy ready-made shelves, make sure that they are raised so that you can easily clean underneath them.
• If you want to be thrifty, consider installing second-hand kitchen cabinets in your garage.
• If you have the space, consider installing some hooks on the underside of your shelves to hang lighter items.

Buy a Pegboard

A pegboard is easy to install and relatively inexpensive. The flat piece of particleboard with evenly spaced holes can be attached to most walls. You can also paint it whatever color you want and alter it to fit a wall space of any size. A pegboard is perfect for storing lightweight things like hand tools or sports equipment.

• You should be able to find pegboard and hooks at your local hardware store.

Install a Panel-based Vertical Organizing System

This high-end system allows you to maximize your wall space. Each wall in your garage is finished with slotted plastic panels that hold and lock in hooks, shelves and cabinets. However, the system is expensive and, in most cases, it has to be installed by professionals.

This system is a great option for those who want to get the most out of every inch of wall space in their garage. It can handle lightweight and heavy items.

You can go online to find local professionals to install the panels in your garage.

Put Together a Track-based Vertical Organizing System

In this system, shelves, hooks, cabinets and other organizers hang from tracks that are affixed to the garage walls studs. This system is relatively cheap, extremely versatile and capable of handling large and heavy loads. However, it can be difficult to install. You will need to make sure that each track is level with the ones next to it so that the shelving hangs straight.

• You can find tracks and shelves at most hardware stores.
• If your garage is not plumb, you may have a difficult time getting your tracks and shelves level. Using a level, you should check the level of your garage before you install the tracks.

There is quite a difference between not using your car for a couple of days and not using it for six months. Understanding how to prepare your car for long-term storage by following simple maintenance and service is integral in keeping your vehicle in top condition. Here are eight tips for preparing your vehicle for long-term storage.

Check Your Paperwork

Renew your registration beforehand if it is set to expire while your vehicle is in storage, or set a reminder to do so when it is due. Additionally, contact your insurance company to inform them that you will be storing your car and confirm that your car is fully covered by your existing insurance policy.

Service Your Car

It is important that your engine and fluids are in good shape before you store your vehicle for a long period. Otherwise, your car might not start when you are ready to use it again.

• Change or top off fluids, which may contain sediments, as appropriate. This includes oil (synthetic oil breaks down more slowly over time, which makes it a preferred option for storage), coolant, transmission fluid and brake fluid.
• Empty out windshield washer fluid in regions susceptible to freezing to protect spray hoses from freeze-thaw cracks.
• Fill your car with gasoline, as it leaves less airspace for moist air to enter the engine and form condensation (or ice), and add a fuel stabilizer, available at any hardware/parts store.
• Check belts, filters, hoses and other components of your engine. Ensure that all are in working order and clean.

Lubricate the Car

Oil the hinges of the hood, doors and trunk. Use a graphite-based lubricant for locks. Coat rubber parts of the doors and tires with silicone or white lithium grease. This will help prevent them from freezing shut.

Clean the Interior

Throw away any trash. Vacuum seats and floor mats to prevent damage. Do not use chemical protectant (i.e. Armor All) on leather, vinyl and other fabrics as it may stain or cause excessive chemical damage to surfaces. Wash the inside of your windows. Getting the interior of your car in shape before storing it will prevent smells and potential damage from the sun or heat, if you are not storing your vehicle in a storage unit.

Care for the Exterior

Wash, buff, and wax your car. Have the vehicle detailed, if possible. Make sure to clean the underside of your car – anything stuck to the bottom of the car acts like a sponge, trapping moisture that could lead to the creation of rust. Remove wiper blades or lift them up so they do not become deformed or flat. Ensure all leaves, pine needles and any other debris have been removed from the engine compartment and the windshield wiper cowl.

Ensure that the Battery is Fully Charged

Electronics can quickly drain the power of your battery, so make sure it is charged before you store your vehicle. You can also consider using a trickle charger. Disconnect your battery if you are storing your vehicle for more than 6 months and take the disconnected battery someplace temperate and dry.

Deflate Your Tires

Deflate your tires to 10psi less than the manufacturer’s recommendation and place the vehicle on jack stands if you are storing your vehicle for more than 6 months. This allows the rubber to relax and prevents cracking while allowing you to still drive on them when you remove the vehicle from storage. There are accounts of “flat spots” if a vehicle is stored on the ground, but newer tires are engineered to prevent this and any flat spots will be worked out while driving within 160 km or so.

Cover Your Vehicle

Vehicle covers protect your car from sun damage, dust and minor dings. Try to find a vehicle cover designed for long-term storage – these will not trap moisture, but they will allow your vehicle to breathe.
If you have any questions about car storage, please contact U-Lock Mini Storage and our staff will be delighted to answer any questions you have!

Classic cars are beloved investments that should be kept in mint condition through the year. One of the best ways to keep your classic car in top condition is by investing in seasonal or long-term car storage (visit our Burnaby and Vancouver car storage and White Rock car storage pages for our car storage solutions). Using car storage assures that your classic car is stored in a safe and secure location and the temperature in the facility is suited for keeping a car in top condition.

Before storing your classic car in a car storage unit, you have to prep your car to assure that it is ready for long-term storage. Here are five tips to prep your car for long-term storage.

1. Fill the Tank & Change the Oil

Fill the tank with premium gasoline and add a fuel stabilizer per the manufacturer’s instructions. The fuller the tank, the less chance excess moisture will build up in open spaces, which can cause the tank to rust.

The fuel stabilizer will prevent the fuel from hardening and gunking up. Make sure you drive the car around for a few miles after adding the stabilizer so it can work itself throughout the system. Then top the tank off before leaving in storage.

Along with fresh gasoline, make sure the oil has been changed and the oil filter has been replaced. Leaving dirty, old oil in your classic car can lead to premature rusting within the engine. Remember to drive the car a few miles immediately following the oil change.

In addition to an oil change and refueling, remove the spark plugs and lubricate the cylinders before long-term storage. You can replace the spark plugs after lubricating the cylinders or keep them in a safe place if you don’t want anyone taking your car for a spin while it is in storage.

2. Get the Car Detailed & Prepped

This step may seem unnecessary and counter-intuitive, but it is important to store a clean and waxed car. Any dust or debris left on the car in storage can scratch or damage the exterior paint, while dirt and crumbs in the interior can attract unwanted pests and create undesirable odors. Before storing your classic car, give it a good, thorough cleaning and apply a protective wax finish on the exterior.

After the car wash, prep your classic car even further by doing the following:

• Add a box of baking soda to the interior of the car to absorb unwanted smells.
• Block off the exhaust using steel wool or aluminum foil to deter pests.
• Lubricate door and hood hinges to keep them from jamming up.
• Don’t forget the wheels! Make sure they are cleaned and dressed before storage.
• Use a breathable cloth car cover instead of plastic. Plastic covers can trap condensation that can lead to rust.

3. Fill Tires with Air & Put the Car on Jacks

It is important to properly maintain your tires in storage because they can be very expensive to replace. First, fill up your tires to the maximum suggested PSI. Then, if you don’t plan on driving the car for a while, jack the car up using jack stands. This relieves the weight from the tires and suspension. The added support will also prevent tires from flat spotting.

Quick Tip: If you are storing your car on a dirt or stone surface, be sure to add plywood or another hard surface below the tires. This will protect the tires from ground rot.

4. Address the Car Battery & Fluids

If you plan on storing your classic car long-term, remove the car battery entirely. If the battery terminal is corroded, carefully clean it with a mixture of baking soda, petroleum jelly, and distilled water. Store the battery off the ground in a climate-controlled environment above freezing temperatures.

If you will be starting your car every now and then, consider a battery tender (or trickle charger) to keep the battery functioning over long periods of time. However, this option will only work if you have a power source in your storage area.

Do a quick inspection right before storage and make sure all the fluids are topped off, including antifreeze, brake fluid and transmission fluid.

5. Choose the Right Storage Location

Under ideal circumstances, a classic car should be stored in a clean, dark, and dry space. While it may be tempting to keep your car stored in an inexpensive old barn, the dirt floor and light exposure can be damaging. A garage attached to your home is not ideal either because the constant access exposes your car to the elements.