The weather isn't always predictable in Metairie, LA. One minute it's sunny; the next it's raining. The seasons change and bring cold temperatures deep into the South. If you keep your valuables outdoors, it's important to protect them from the elements. Safeguard Self Storage has a few tips on how to prevent unnecessary damage during the colder months.

3 Ways to Protect Your Things in Bad Weather

Invest in a portable shed.

Portable sheds are the ideal option for those who have enough space in their backyards and need to keep their items protected from the elements. They come in many different sizes to shield everything from a lawnmower to a truck. You can select from easy-up sheds with plastic coverings or invest in a metal or resin shed if you have the budget. A shed will keep everything protected from heavy winds, rain and other inclement weather situations.

Use weatherproof tarps.

If you don't have the budget for a shed, nothing beats a tarp for protecting your valuables outdoors. Weatherproof tarps keep the rain off your mower, gardening equipment, and vehicles while allowing the air to flow beneath, preventing mold and mildew from growing on your items. They come in different colors and sizes and sometimes include eyeholes to keep them tied down when the wind picks up speed.

Make temporary space in the garage.

Sometimes you have to bring your items indoors when bad weather strikes. Maybe a hurricane has targeted the area or a cold front has dipped and brought frigid temperatures. You'll want to move things aside in the garage to make room for your outdoor items. You don't want hurricane-force winds to blow away your things or the cold to damage temperature-sensitive equipment. Bring them all inside until the weather gets back to normal in your area.

No Space? Try Climate Controlled Storage Units

If you don't have the space or your budget doesn't allow it, consider keeping your stuff nice and dry in our climate-controlled storage units. Safeguard Self Storage has indoor units that are air conditioned and heated to keep your items at a consistent temperature and protect them year-round no matter what Mother Nature has in store for Metairie, LA.

It's fall again in East Tremont, NY, and that can means that it's time to winterize your motorcycle. You don't want it to rust over when it sits for months on end. Before you follow our tips for prepping your bike, make sure to take a few bike rides this fall. It's a lovely time of year for riding. Once you're ready to park it, check out Safeguard Self Storage for competitively priced motorcycle storage.

3 Tips for Winterizing Your Motorcycle

Fill the tank with treated fuel.

There are two types of winterizers: People who fill their tanks and those who empty them. We recommend filling your tanks with treated fuel if it's going to sit all winter long. Although a full tank can put stress on the petcock, an empty tank causes dry seals. Fill it up, and have a full tank to hit the road in the spring.

Cover it with the appropriate tarp.

Even if you park your bike inside for the winter, it's a good idea to cover it with a tarp or other breathable sheet. After all, you don't want dust or other debris to build up on your investment. Covering it will also protect the paint and exposed parts from scratches if you have kids playing near the bike or if it's parked near tools or the car.

Plug up the pipes and holes.

You know what else likes to hunker down for the winter? Mice. You don't want your bike to become a haven for mice when it's parked for several months. Make sure to plug up areas like the exhaust pipes and the air intakes to keep mice from building nests inside. If you're worried about rodents, our storage units keep out unwanted pests while protecting your bike until spring.

Motorcycle Storage at Safeguard Self Storage

Self storage is the perfect option for keeping your bike protected during the winter. It'll stay inside where it's protected from the snow and bitter elements. Our storage units in East Tremont, NY, are easy on your wallet and come in handy if you lack the space for storing your bike at home.

NOTICE: Motor bikes may not be run at any time while inside of the storage facility. In addition, motor bikes must be free of any leaks before they can be stored inside of a storage unit.

Sometimes, you want something. Sometimes, you need it. Self storage in Darien, IL, is one of those things you often really need. There always comes a time when storage units make better sense than trying to turn the house or garage into a permanent home storage solution.

When Clutter Crowds Your Space

Clutter is a fickle thing. While certain items you own may not bring you much joy, they can still be a challenge to toss out if they hold psychological meaning. Thankfully, you don't have to throw anything away when there's a climate-controlled unit just around the corner. Clear out clutter, and park it until you decide to sell it, donate it, or finally throw it away.

When You Need Room to Remodel

When it comes to home renovation projects, clutter can be a nightmare. Ensure your belongings are out of the way before demo day to make work easier for everyone involved. Don't worry about the contractor accidentally destroying furniture while he adds on that extra room. Keep belongings out of busy work zones with a temporary move to convenient self storage.

When You're Ready to Live Small

Downsizing isn't just for seniors. It's a lifestyle choice that makes sense under the right circumstances. If you're thinking about living smaller, think about units large enough to handle several rooms of extra furniture. Storage facilities offer a wide variety of affordable options.

When You're in Transition

You're so happy to finally sell the house, but the closing date means you must move fast. Bring that stress level down to earth. Lease a unit between the old and new place. Now, you can transition at your own pace.

When the Semester Ends

Whether you're a student or the parent of someone between semesters, put storage units on the summer break must-have list. They're the perfect place between the dorm and home for storing student stuff. They save the expense of long-distance hauling, too.

When You Run a Small Business

Your home business keeps expanding. Space at the house keeps shrinking. Don't bust the bottom line paying for commercial square footage or warehouse space. Move operations to an affordable unit with plenty of room for inventory, equipment, and important records.

When You Need Extra Security

Valuable antiques prefer climate-controlled environments. Often, your treasures are better protected in storage units than they are at the house. Your favorite things deserve to be surrounded by layers of high-tech security 24/7.

When You Want the Best

When you want the very best storage, we're always ready. When the time comes, just come by Safeguard Self Storage in Darien, IL. We look forward to seeing you soon!

It's not hard to put off a big job like decluttering your home, but this is a project that's actually good for you. Nearby storage units in Philadelphia, PA, make it easy to stay motivated, clean up the house, and enjoy these 10 healthy benefits

10 Benefits of Keeping Your Home Free of Clutter

You're Less Anxious

When things pile up all around you, it feels overwhelming. Decluttering your space creates a calming sense of order. Eliminating visual noise eliminates anxiety.

It Increases Creativity

All the rooms in your cluttered home look like overcrowded storage units. It makes you step back, think, and figure out creative ways to establish control and stay on track.

You Build Confidence

You're making decisions and solving problems. Cleaning up the house puts you in charge of the situation. The work teaches you that you can handle tough jobs.

You Save Time

Imagine not digging through messy drawers for that one important thing. Picture breezing through closets as you reorganize clothes. A decluttered house is a big time-saver.

It's Easier to Concentrate

You don't realize how badly clutter creeps into your peripheral senses until it's gone. A clean home sets you free to concentrate on things you care about.

You Set a Good Example

When you clean up clutter, you're showing the kids how it's done. When you get them involved in the process, you're helping them develop organizational skills.

Everyone Is Safer

Too many boxes on closet shelves turn into avalanches. Kids' toys all over the floor turn into tripping hazards. Decluttering helps your family stay safe.

Everyone Breathes Easier

Clutter collects dust, dander, pet hair, and insect debris. Getting rid of it keeps airborne pathogens out of your HVAC system. You and your family breathe easier.

You Can Do Good for Others

Not all clutter belongs in the trash. Donate items you don't need or want any longer to local charities. Area organizations are always grateful for items like clothes, books, and even old knickknacks.

Feeling Positive Feels Great

You've taken control. You've made a huge difference. Clutter doesn't rule your home anymore. Enjoy the sense of accomplishment. You deserve every ounce of pride you feel for taking care of a very big job.

We're Happy to Help

When you're ready to conquer clutter, our Safeguard Self Storage team in Philadelphia, PA, is happy to help. We're always here for you with storage units sized for every type of clutter cleanup project.

You've both said yes to marriage. You're both ready to clean out your storage units in Holmdel, NJ, and move into a new home together. Before you start the migration from singles with self storage to property co-owners, double-check your budget and expectations. You might want to wait until after the nuptials.

Both Credit Scores Count

Regardless of marital status, a bank or mortgage lender looks at your individual credit scores. Better credit increases the chances of securing a loan with a lower interest rate. Consider these two common scenarios:

• You both have good credit histories - Application as a couple should be successful.
• One of you has a bad credit score - This can negatively impact your application as a couple.

If only one of you can satisfy the lender's requirements, you can take out the loan as an individual. However, you lose the advantage of applying with a combined income. You may want to postpone buying a new house until you've had a chance to get both credit scores on solid ground.

Shared Contributions Work

You aren't used to sharing everything yet. From separate storage units to individual incomes and savings accounts, you have a lot to consolidate. Figure out much each of you can commit towards a new home purchase.

Develop a shared contribution schedule. Factor in all your financial obligations including student debt, credit card debt, and current car loans. Make sure you're both comfortable with the numbers.

Think About More Than Finances

On average, 75% of couples in your position wait until after marriage to buy a home. Still, the two of you are more than statistics and credit checks. Think outside the financial box with these questions:

• Will buying now add to pre-wedding stress?
• If you're not currently sharing an apartment, is that an option?
• Are you both positioned for a smooth transition to a new house?

Take your time. Consider all the possibilities. Don't let outside pressures force your decision. When you and your partner are sure, you'll make the right move at the right time.

Keep Us in Your Plans

Whether you buy before or after the wedding, we're always here to help. Once you've settled in that dream home, we're at your service with the best storage options available. Keep Safeguard Self Storage in Holmdel, NJ, in your plans, and keep your eye on a very bright future together.

Convenient, affordable self storage keeps life organized at home, work, and school. It's the perfect solution for expanding tight spaces until it doesn't work. How do you maximize the room in your unit? How do you make everything fit? Try these packing tips for your Lombard, IL, storage unit from our storage pros.

10 Tips to Pack Like a Pro

Plan Ahead Online

The best storage facilities offer online calculators that let you size up different storage units. These handy digital tools make it easier to figure out exactly what you need.

Declutter Your Clutter

Be honest about what you really want to keep in storage. Don't just move clutter from your home base into your unit. Save that storage space for the important stuff.

Take Things Apart

If you can disassemble it, it will probably fit better in the unit. From bed frames to bikes, this is one of your best packing tips for large bulky items.

Invest in New Boxes

You won't find mold and bugs in new storage boxes. Fresh containers are strong enough to hold heavy loads and stack safely. Most self storage facilities sell a variety of sturdy boxes.

Fill Them Up

Maximize space in the unit by filling up boxes, sealing them with heavy tape, and labeling the contents. Tightly packing boxes gives them extra stacking strength.

Vacuum Bag Clothes

A climate-controlled storage unit protects clothing from mildew and bugs. Add another layer of safety while saving space too by using vacuum bags to compact clothing.

Stack Like a Pro

Maximize vertical space by building stacks of same-sized containers with heaviest boxes at the bottom. This tip also minimizes the risk of unit avalanches.

Bring in Shelving

Keep thinking vertically while you keep fragile things safe. Bring in wheeled shelving units or old bookshelves to extend secure floor-to-ceiling storage options.

Use Hidden Spaces

Some of the smartest packing tips are hiding in empty spaces. Store extra belongings in dresser drawers, under small tables and inside ovens and refrigerators.

Resist Plastic Bags

Plastic bags don't compact very well. They tear too easily and they trap moisture. They don't stack either, so keep them off your list of packing strategies.

Let Safeguard Help

Our teams know all about maximizing storage unit square footage. We're always happy to share ideas that make the most of your space. When you want a little help from self storage pros, you can depend on us here at Safeguard. Rent a unit today at our Lombard, IL, location or one of our other facilities!

Nothing rallies your traveling spirit like the call of a summer road trip. Nothing lets you cruise down the highway like your vacation home on wheels. It's time to get the RV out of your Safeguard Self Storage unit in Philadelphia, PA, and get on your way to one of these must-drive summer destinations.

The Sunshine State

Start in southern California with rock climbing adventures in Joshua Tree National Park. Head north for dry camping at Lake Tahoe. Enjoy the fishing, but save your energy for covering all 1,170 square miles of Yosemite National park.

Sin City Campgrounds

Yes, you can take a road trip to Las Vegas and bypass the slot machines. Think outside the casino as you cross Hoover Dam. Stay in an RV campground on the shores of Lake Mead. If you want to play within betting distance of Vegas, park your rig at a Red Rock Canyon campsite.

Old Faithful's Home

Every family vacation should include cheering on the world's most famous geyser. Old Faithful always impresses. It's just one of the reasons to drive your RV through Yellowstone National Park. Add white water rafting and wildlife safaris to your list of Yellowstone quests.

Historic New England

Upgrade the antique collection in your storage unit with a summer RV trip through New England. Browse historic shops on Rhode Island's shores in Newport. Indulge in luxury RV glamping outside Wolfeboro Falls in New Hampshire. Wrap up your trip with shopping, golfing, and hiking around beautiful Naples, Maine.

Gulf Coast Beaches

Take it easy with Southern style as you take in summer beaches along the Gulf Coast. Start with Padre Island in Texas. Ease on over to Louisiana's Grand Isle State Park. Sail down the highway to Buccaneer State Park in Mississippi and Dauphin Island in Alabama. Finish with a splash at Pensacola, Florida.

The Original Route 66

It's the ultimate road trip for lovers of roadside attractions large, small, and strange. This famous highway between Chicago and Los Angeles slides under the Gateway Arch in St. Louis and past the Texas Cadillac Ranch. Salute the Grand Canyon's glory as you continue on to the City of Angels.

Premium RV Parking

When summer rolls to an end, let Safeguard Self Storage serve as your RV's home away from home, with vehicle storage in Philadelphia, PA, on Rhawn Street and other locations. We take good care of your wheels with parking or a storage unit that perfectly fits your rig. You can always count on us for RV parking regardless of the season. Reserve a unit today!

The semester is finally over, but you're not headed home yet. You're in that wonderful place between school and a well-deserved summer vacation. Still, you have to juggle moving off campus and organizing your trip. You need a little help. You need a convenient, affordable storage unit at Safeguard Self Storage in Marrero, LA.

Self Storage Unlocks Vacation Money

Leasing a unit can actually help keep money in your pocket. You don't have to rent trucks or trailers to haul belongings between home and campus. Share storage space with a friend, and split rental costs in half.

Plan ahead by stashing things in the unit for an end-of-semester sale. Cash in on textbooks, clothes, room decorations, and extra furniture. The proceeds quickly add up to jump-start funding for your trip.

You're Already Ready to Go

Imagine making one quick stop before hitting the road. Picture pulling up to your unit, loading the car, and heading out for summer vacation. A storage facility close to campus makes it easy.

Make it happen by keeping a few pieces of traveling gear packed and ready to go. Luggage and backpacks stay fresh and dry for months in a climate-controlled unit.

You Hold the Keys to Anywhere

A secure storage unit gives you summer break flexibility. Load it up with things you need for destination vacations and seasonal staycations. You can go anywhere or stay put.

• Store camping gear for the great outdoors.
• Keep bikes in shape for cross-country trips.
• Stock up on favorite stay-at-home hobby supplies.
• Cache equipment for coaching local kids' sports.

It's Easier to Come Home

When you run out of vacation time, self storage makes it easier to transition back to campus. Your family enjoys seeing you before the semester starts back up. They're also relieved you aren't moving things in and out of the house and garage at the last minute.

Vacation gear and dorm room stuff coexist well in the unit, so take advantage of that arrangement. When it's time for another break from school, storage makes it easier for you and the people you love.

Plan Your Summer Vacation With Us

Safeguard Self Storage helps students maximize semester breaks in Marrero, CA, and more than 70 other locations across six states. We offer a variety of unit sizes, great discounts, and online account management. It's your vacation, so take control. Unlock the possibilities with a storage unit that fits your needs all year-round.

Finding a new job in your own town can be difficult. Adding a major move into the mix makes the prospect even more intimidating. Planning your move and laying the groundwork for the hiring process won't just calm your nerves. It will also increase the likelihood of a company choosing you over a local. Safeguard Self Storage, with facilities in Hollywood, FL, and other locations, offers these tips for landing an interview in a different city.

Prep Your Profile

Keep an updated copy of your resume at the ready. You'll have one less item on your plate when you start your job search. Make sure the info in your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date, too. Turn on the setting showing that you're open to being contacted for new opportunities. Consider writing a relevant, industry-related article and posting it to the platform. You'll stand out as a go-getter who knows his or her business.

To Move or not to Move

Some job seekers aren't able to move without having a position firmly in place. If you have the freedom to do so, relocating in advance could make your search for a new job easier. Of course, if you don't have enough savings in place or aren't willing to do temp work, the financial stress could outweigh the ability to meet for interviews on short notice. Freelancing could be a great way to tide you over financially or even get your foot in the door at a new company. Ease the transition to an unfamiliar locale by learning more about the city in advance. You'll have topics of conversation ready when networking opportunities arise.

Research Your Future Workplace

Make a list of companies where you can see yourself thriving. For each, learn about the corporate culture and the department in which you'd be working. Follow these companies' social media accounts for company updates and job openings. Keep a document with job postings, company contacts, and other relevant info on hand. If your experience is more general, or you're not concerned with working only at certain companies, expand your options by signing up for job alerts connected with relevant keywords.

Safeguard Can Help Your Move Be Successful

When moving to a new city for whatever reason, the logistics of moving your things can be tricky. But self storage can help. Off-site storage units make the transition easier and allow you to ease into a new place or be flexible in searching for a home.

Prevent clutter at your new place or safeguard your belongings while you find permanent digs with self storage. Safeguard Self Storage helps customers in Hollywood, FL, and other cities settle in while starting a new job.

It's not the most expensive model on the street, but it's yours. You ride that faithful bicycle through Valley Stream, NY, every day. Whether it gets you to work or around Hendrickson Park, it's a target for thieves.

Three Tips to Protect Your Bike from the Worst

Keep It Secure

It's not enough to just lock up the bike. Public parking puts it out in the open where it's vulnerable to bike thieves.

These strategies can upgrade your bike protection:

• Double your bike's security with a cable and a U-lock.
• Lock the frame and one wheel to something immovable.
• Avoid smash-and-grab thefts by keeping locks off the ground.

Make the Most of Your Locks

Quality bicycle locks give you extra peace of mind. Better equipment also holds up longer to daily use.

Make the most of your locks with simple security tactics:

• Key holes facing down discourage lock tampering.
• Position a U-lock so that its open area is difficult to access.
• Run a cable from the frame through the front wheel and back.
• Secure the rear wheel triangle to a stand with a U-lock.

Look Before You Leave

Look at where you're parking the bike. If you wanted to steal it, would the location make your job easier? Moving it down the block to a busier spot can make a big difference. Most commercial store fronts have outside security cameras. Take advantage of that public surveillance.

Don't leave the bike outside a place that advertises your absence. Thieves notice wheels parked in front of movie theaters. Do lock up your ride in the middle of a crowded rack. It's harder to access, but that works for you because it works against bicycle theft.

Use Our Bonus Power Tip

Our three tips help keep your bike safe while you're out, but we have one more bonus power tip: Give your ride a secure home in self storage.

A storage unit allows you 24/7 access to the bike. Climate control helps it weather our New York winters. High-tech surveillance ensures your bike's security. You have extra room for riding gear and affordable unit space for sharing.

Keep It Secure with Us

You and your wheels deserve a long future together. Keep it secure with storage solutions here in Valley Stream, NY, and multiple locations across the city. When you want the best for your bike, you can count on Safeguard Self Storage!