Packing up items and placing them in a storage unit can be stressful, especially if you worry about your belongings getting ruined during the storage period. If you live in an extremely humid area of the country, then mold can cause destruction. Keep reading to learn how to best keep mold at bay in the storage unit.

Create A Barrier

Moisture can get into your storage unit in a variety of ways, but it will most commonly seep in through the floor and in the form of condensation on the warm side of the storage unit. To keep the moisture from contributing to mold growth, place a vapor barrier on the floor of the warm side of the storage unit. Vapor barriers are coverings that are used to keep moisture from infiltrating a space.

There are two types of barriers that you can install that include polyethylene sheeting and foil-coated paper or radiant barrier material. Polyethylene sheeting is typically cheaper, but the foil-coated products are beneficial when it comes to keeping excess heat out of your storage space. If you decide to use polyethylene, just make sure that you purchase sheeting material that has a low permeability rating. This will ensure that the barrier allows very little air through that can carry moisture into the unit.

Also, you will want to install the sheeting so it overlaps a small amount around the edge of the unit. Use duct tape or foil backed tape to secure the edges and create a waterproof seal.

Encourage Dry Airflow

Mold requires a calm area to grow where spores can settle and multiply without being disturbed. When your storage unit remains shut for a long period of time, then mold can easily form and grow. However, air movement can reduce mold formation and keep your belongings safe. 

There are a few things you can do to encourage air flow. You can simply open the door of the unit on dry days, or you can purchase a battery-operated fan. Fans are best used for short storage periods or if you intend on visiting your unit often to replace batteries. Solar-powered fans are an option as well if you can secure the solar unit outside the door.

You can also look for storage spaces that are equipped with vents. This is more common in areas that are prone to hot and wet summers. Units that have rotary turbine vents are ideal since these devices greatly reduce the amount of moisture that can get into your storage space. 

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