Adding a shed can be an excellent way to create additional storage space on your Florida property, but some belongings do not hold up well in unconditioned outdoor environments.

That does not mean an unconditioned shed is only useful for storing a lawnmower. Many durable household items, outdoor tools, recreational equipment and maintenance supplies can be stored safely in a well-built storage building when they are organized and protected properly and the shed is installed to help keep water and ground moisture out.

Lawn and Yard Equipment

Items such as lawnmowers, trimmers, rakes, shovels, hoes, wheelbarrows, hoses, sprinklers and other yard tools are designed for outdoor use and generally do not require the same environmental protection as sensitive household belongings.

However, outdoor equipment should still be stored thoughtfully. Clean grass, dirt and moisture from equipment before putting it away, and avoid leaving wet tools in an enclosed area where moisture can linger.

Keeping equipment off the floor when practical can also help protect it from moisture. Shelving, hooks, pallets and other organizational solutions can make a shed easier to use while keeping belongings elevated.

Outdoor and Recreational Equipment

Camping equipment, bicycles, fishing gear, coolers, gardening supplies, outdoor games, plastic storage containers and certain sporting equipment can generally be stored in a shed when properly protected.

Durable household items that are not particularly sensitive to heat or humidity can also work well. For example, outdoor decorations, empty planters, gardening pots, patio accessories and certain seasonal items can often be moved out of the house and into a storage building.

Durable Household Goods

An outdoor shed can be useful for storing household belongings that are relatively resistant to Florida's changing conditions. Plastic bins, durable tools, empty luggage, certain hardware, cleaning equipment and non-sensitive home improvement supplies may be appropriate.

Sealed plastic containers can provide an additional layer of protection against humidity and dust. Using airtight bins for sensitive smaller items and keeping belongings elevated rather than directly on the floor can add an extra layer of protection.

What About Electronics?

Computers, televisions, gaming systems, cameras, audio equipment and other sensitive electronic devices can be affected by prolonged exposure to heat and humidity.

Condensation and moisture can contribute to corrosion, while extreme temperatures can affect electronic components and batteries. It’s usually best to store high-value electronics and other particularly sensitive items in your home or another climate-controlled storage space.

If you absolutely need to store a less-sensitive electronic item temporarily, keep it in its original protective case or a sealed container with appropriate moisture control.

Paper Records, Photographs and Important Documents

Anything paper is particularly sensitive to Florida's humidity. Family photographs, birth certificates, legal documents, financial records, business records and irreplaceable papers are generally better kept indoors in a controlled environment.

If you need to temporarily store ordinary paperwork in a shed, use sealed, moisture-resistant containers and check the contents periodically.

Upholstered Furniture and Mattresses

Upholstered furniture, mattresses, rugs and other fabric-heavy household goods can be problematic in an unconditioned Florida storage building.

These materials can absorb moisture from the surrounding air, potentially creating conditions that encourage mildew and unpleasant odors.

If furniture must be stored, it should be completely dry before entering the building. Covering items appropriately and keeping them elevated can provide additional protection, but climate-controlled storage is preferable for valuable upholstered furniture, mattresses, antiques and other moisture-sensitive belongings.

Food and Perishable Items

A non-climate-controlled shed is generally not a good place to store food. Florida heat can accelerate spoilage and create conditions favorable to mold, insects and other problems. High temperatures can also negatively affect the quality and safety of many food products.

This also applies to long-term emergency food kits and preparedness supplies. Although these products are designed for extended shelf life, many still have recommended storage temperature ranges, and prolonged exposure to high heat can shorten their usable life or affect product quality.

Paint, Chemicals and Other Special Materials

Some household and maintenance products require specific storage conditions. Paint, certain adhesives, chemicals, batteries, fuels and other materials may be affected by extreme temperatures or humidity.

Always follow the manufacturer's storage instructions rather than assuming an item is safe simply because it is commonly kept in a garage or shed.

Solve Your Storage Headaches With a High-Quality Portable Shed

Need more storage space on your Florida Panhandle property? Contact Bestway Portable Buildings at (850) 747-8974 to learn more about storage sheds and portable buildings and find a solution that fits your storage needs.