During your lifetime, you will no doubt gather many important and valuable documents. Unfortunately, it’s not always easy to store these items without putting them at risk for water damage and other unforeseen problems. When storing meaningful papers, there are some steps you should take to ensure their integrity. If you are looking to store files or papers at a high-quality storage unit in Palo Alto, here are some useful tips to consider.
Choose the Right Storage Unit
Paper and similar materials last much longer in environments that are not susceptible to humidity or heat. With that in mind, you may want to find a storage unit rental that has a controlled environment with temperature and humidity regulation. Damp and humid areas are a problem because they attract pests and promote mold growth, which can both damage your papers.
Avoid Well Lit Areas
When looking for a self-storage facility, try to find storage units that do not have windows or a lot of light. Depending on what the material is, documents can easily become damaged by an excessive amount of light, and this damage is impossible to reverse. Inks will fade and the paper itself will degrade, which means it is imperative to store these materials in a place where light will not be a problem. Storing your documents in secure, solid boxes can also help to protect them from damage due to light.
Use Folders and Boxes
This might seem obvious, but one of the best ways to protect your valuable documents is to place them in folders and boxes. Portfolios, envelopes, and standard file folders will keep your files safe from potential damage. Add an extra layer of protection by placing these files into boxes that will keep them safe and protect your paper documentation from deterioration.