Surprising Reasons Why Self Storage Is a Great Valentine Gift
Are you looking for a great Valentine’s Day gift for your loved one, but aren’t sure where to start? Self storage is a surprisingly good present for this romantic holiday. Reserve a good self storage area for your sweetheart — and you can do it easily online:
Protect Valued Possessions
Most self-storage areas have security, cameras, and controlled access that protect your valuables. A storage facility can be a better option than a home basement where flooding or an easy break-in will destroy something cherished.
Show You Care
If you love someone, you care for the items they hold most dear. By making it easy to store personal treasures or important documents, you’ll show your Valentine that their “stuff” is valuable to you, too. Don’t forget to help them pack and move everything!
Adaptable And Useful Gift
What is particularly special about self-storage is that the space opened up in your home can be used a variety of ways. For example, your loved one could finally have a rehearsal area for their band, or use it as a private place to create artwork, practice yoga, or write.
More Room To Enjoy Each Other
One underrated aspect of self-storage is how it can reduce or eliminate clutter. If you and your loved one have just moved in together, you are likely to have a lot of mutual items to sort, donate, or store. Self-storage helps give a couple more room to enjoy each other and eliminates potential fights over space.
Peace Of Mind
When your loved one’s belongings are stored in a well-protected and locked self-storage locker, they can have peace of mind. Family heirlooms and priceless possessions are locked away from the prying hands of thieves, or accidental breakage.
Reserve or rent a self-storage locker for your Valentine online at this website or call us at Centron Self Storage: (647) 749-1219. We can provide affordable storage options and create an awesome Valentine’s Day gift your loved one will cherish for years.
Combat Clutter with New Year’s Self Storage
Storage isn’t only for furniture and boxes. It also clears out those bulky holiday decorations that don’t seem to fit anywhere. As you take down Christmas trees, ornaments, wreaths, special napkins, towels and bric-a-brac to begin a new year, organize your home and create a brand new space for yourself.
What can a self-storage unit do for you?
Organizing clutter can reduce stress and help you regain control of everyday life. Have you always wanted to make your basement into a recreational room or art studio? Where will you put all the items stored down there? By renting a self-storage unit, you’ll know important documents, bins, and boxes are kept safely on another site. Clear out closets, rooms, or your attic and keep meaningful items out of sight until you need them. Feel refreshed, energized, organized, and still keep those items available.
If you want more space in your home you don’t have to get rid of special, treasured possessions. Simply look into a small storage unit to house old tax forms, special childhood stuffed animals, or seasonal decorations. A professional facility can help you box up everything and keep it all secure.
Big or small storage needs can be met at Centron Self Storage, where we keep all your treasures locked in a clean unit. With over 25 years of experience, we offer great value and can provide packing materials or a climate-controlled environment for special items. Enjoy the comfort of a clutter-free home and the peace of mind that the extra space provides. Call us at (647) 749-1218.
Absolute Necessities for Document Storage
Great record keeping can be a challenge for the most organized business or individual. You work hard at keeping your records accurate, up-to-date, and secure. Whether you’re a busy student or a growing company, document storage is necessary for important tax documents or other business paperwork. Protecting everything, keeping only what you need, and storing documents where you can easily access them are vital tasks for small and large businesses alike.
Protecting Documents for Storage
A quality, opaque plastic container can help protect your documents from moisture or sunlight. Keep your containers organized by buying the same brand and style so they stack together safely and securely. Add a detailed label to at least two sides of the container to help identify contents. Use categories like “Taxes” or “Home” on labels. If you require a detailed content list, put it on top of items inside the bin.
Rotation of Documents in Storage
Keeping only what you need can be a challenge. To simplify matters, add a “destroy by” date on your container labels to help determine when to purge documents. You can further organize documents in folders within each container with their own “shred dates.” Rotating and purging outdated items will keep costs for document storage to a minimum. Shredding your outdated documents will help ensure your private information is kept secure.
Keep Documents Close
Great record keeping takes time at first, but if you’re organized it will save hours of work in the future. Selecting nearby storage units will also save time, as well as fuel costs. When you can easily access and sort your documents close to where you work or live, you are more likely to keep things organized, up-to-date, and secure.
Centron Self Storage is ready to help. We have several unit sizes to fit any changing storage needs. We also stock a wide array of packing supplies and tools to make it easy for you to organize. Call us today: North York (647) 749-1397.
Make the Best of your Holiday Storage!
There are many places to store your belongings. Whether you store in your attic, storage closet or even a rented storage space, you have to put your precious items somewhere! Wherever you choose to store, space is always limited and holiday decorations can make your space feel especially cluttered.
- Create a Space Dedicated for Each Season
If you have decorations for many holidays, it’s important to pack and store for each separate season. When your decorations and other belongings are not specifically grouped or labeled, it can create a huge mess and make it impossible to find things when you need them. Keep your springtime decorations in one section and your Thanksgiving/winter holiday decorations in another.
- Organize Each Section
Organize each box/area based on your personal timeline. If you put up a Christmas tree before bringing out the beautiful holiday-themed china that grandma gave you, stack your lights and ornaments above that beloved (well-packed and preserved) box of china. If you decorate for fall using hay, pumpkins, and scarecrows, place Halloween decorations in front of anything you pull out for Thanksgiving.
- Give Every Storage Box a Label
If you have many items for each holiday season, it’s hard to see what is in each box. Sort your items carefully and put a detailed label on each box or bin. If you have a large number of specific items like Christmas ornaments, sort the ornaments and create labels such as “gingerbread ornaments” or “antique ornaments.”
- Rotate Your Storage
When you pull out one season’s worth of boxes and bins, place the next holiday’s storage closer to the front. This allows you to keep everything you need next time more accessible in your storage space and avoid the headache created by trying to find things in your space.
Even with a lot of organization, sometimes your belongings still are too much for the basement, attic or condo “storage cage.” Should you need extra storage space, please give us a call! You can even reserve a unit online. Reach Centron Self Storage in North York: (647) 749-1396.
Canadian Self Storage History: As Varied as Our Land
You need space to live, work and play. As the Canadian population increased, the amount of open space became limited. The self storage industry has grown to fill this void. Learn about the history of the self storage industry:
Self Storage History
Historians believe that both ancient China and 19th-century England had self storage. When wealthy English individuals planned on taking an extended vacation, they could leave their belongings in a secure British bank crate. The Canadian self storage industry has seen tremendous growth since the 1980s, with more advanced computer security, surveillance cameras and climate-controlled units.
As of 2011, there were an estimated 3,000 self storage facilities in Canada. There are about 60,000 self storage units in the entire world.
The rise of self storage parallels the rise of disposable income and mobility. Some houses don’t have basements. Mini storage is ideal for condominium dwellers and homeowners with unfinished basements.
Storage as Reality Entertainment
Storage has even become the focus of a popular reality show: “Storage Wars.” When storage units are abandoned in the Great White North, their (potential) treasures within go up for auction. Entrepreneurs purchase the contents, looking for antiques and other valuables for resale. They are not told of the contents ahead of time, so they either get lucky or they spend money on junk. It provides a fun diversion, watching people purchase contents of abandoned self storage lockers.
Of course, if you have a fully-paid account for your storage unit or have designated a beneficiary, should you become unable to care for the unit, your belongings will never end up on a reality TV show!
Maximize Your Home Space
Self storage is a great way to increase your space. You might not be able to purchase a brand new house or shed to store all your belongings, but still need help. The self storage industry has a wide range of size options, including indoor climate-controlled units.
Our Centron locations are well-lit and fully fenced, providing you with 24/7 access. We have controlled keypad access, surveillance cameras, motion detectors and security guards. Our climate-controlled self storage units are ideal for small- and medium-sized businesses.
Call us at Centron Self Storage to get started today. You can reach our North York facility by calling (647) 749-1397. Add more space with self storage.
Selecting Storage Facilities to Meet Your Needs
Have you shifted to a smaller house or sold your home? Do you just have too much stuff that you do not want to throw away simply because it won’t fit in your house? It’s clear, then: You need a storage facility. How do you choose the best place to store your belongings without breaking the bank? Here are some hints:
Choose Your Size
It is important to consider the items you intend to store and get an idea the amount of space needed. Larger storage units will cost more per month. However, if you have big items or furniture, you’ll require that larger unit. Also, consider the fact that you not only need a unit that fits all your belongings, but one where you can leave space (or aisles) inside for you to access items.
Consider the Location
Just like other businesses, the principles of real estate apply to storage facilities. A facility that is located at the center of the city is likely to cost more because of the cost of land. One that is out of town may have lower monthly fees. If you do not need quick and regular access to your belongings, then you can save some money by selecting a self-storage facility that is further from the downtown core.
Visit the Facility
Once you’ve narrowed your search, take a trip to the storage facility you favour and ask questions before signing anything. North York has many self-storage facilities, so don’t be pressured into a contract until you are satisfied your needs will be met. Ask what will happen if you are late or miss a payment, and consider if those facilities have discounts or rental specials.
Call us (416) 739-0000 for clean, safe, and convenient storage units. At Centron Self Storage, we offer the high-quality service at competitive prices.
Boot Your Belongings with This Storage Solution
When you need extra space, or your home seems like it’s becoming a cluttered nightmare, consider renting a storage unit. Storage has never been easier or more convenient! With a variety of room sizes and affordable rental rates, you can get peace of mind quickly and stop feeling like you’re living in an episode of “Hoarders.”
Packing
Part of keeping your items safe and secure lies in how they’re packed. This goes beyond the tape and cardboard boxes. Before loading up the truck, consider these suggestions:
- Large appliances – Disconnect removable cords to prevent damage during transport
- Furniture – Disassemble (if possible) and remove hardware
- Outdoor Goods/Lawn Care – Patio furniture, garden, and landscaping tools should be rinsed and dried prior to storing over extended lengths of time
- Storage Bins – Avoid “over-stuffing” totes. Lids will easily ‘pop’ or remain open along the edges, exposing the contents
File and Document Storage
If you run a professional office, or even a home business, it’s likely you’re running out of space to store documents and displays you need, but not on a daily basis. Keep these items safe, clean, and dry by renting a storage unit. A professional facility will have internal and external security cameras and other features to protect your valuables. You and only you will have the key.
Vehicles and Large Items
Is your garage is getting so crowded you can’t find your gardening tools or lawn mower? If you’re holding onto a treasured ’67 Chevy (or other classic car), or an appliance you’re saving in case a friend or relative might need it, storage spaces up to the size of a car garage are available. Some units can be easily accessed from a vehicle or moving truck, and a reputable location can provide carts and dollies so loading and unloading is a breeze.
Centron Self-Storage wants you to be fully prepared for the process. Check our page on storage solutions for more helpful hints. North Yorkers can call (647) 749-1398 to speak with one of our friendly associates, or swing in to your local Centron Self-Storage to discuss options suited to your needs. An ideal space is waiting for you to reserve and rent now!
Surprising Ways to Protect Your Items in Self-Storage
Are you interested in self-storage, but are worried you might make mistakes that could ruin your precious belongings? There are a wide variety of useful hints and tips to keep in mind. Keep your items safe from damage, and make your self-storage experience pleasurable.
Charcoal in a Tin Pan
If you live in an area with high humidity or are worried about moisture damaging items in your storage center, place a small tin pan in your storage center and fill it up with charcoal. Why? Charcoal will absorb the moisture in the air and keep the room free from excessive humidity. For best results, change the pan at least once a week.
Dryer Sheets in the Corners
To keep insects and spiders away from the items in your storage center, place dryer sheets in each corner and in each box. Insects and spiders are not only repulsed by dryer sheets, but the sheets will also help make the room smell fresher. Ideally, replace them once a month and make sure to clean out any dead pests you find.
Cardboard Boxes (not plastic)
While there are a wide range of materials available for storage boxes (including the always popular plastic), cardboard is probably your best bet. Why? Cardboard, unlike plastic, can breathe (i.e. let oxygen in and out of your boxes).
Airtight boxes might seem like a better bet here, but they can actually trap moisture and cause serious damage to your items. Excessive humidity and moisture will degrade the quality of your items, and can cause boxes to expand and contract when the temperatures change.
Don’t Pack Your Storage Space to the Limit!
If you fill your storage unit up completely, allowing items to touch the walls, you are increasing growth potential for mould. Storage units need ventilation to breathe and to decrease moisture and humidity in the air. Keep a space of at least two feet from the wall and your items.
You can also help avoid mould by placing pallets under your boxes/items. This will create breathing room underneath and reduce the risk of developing mould. It’s also a good idea to throw a sheet or some other covering item over your boxes to keep them protected.
If you need help with more self-storage tips like this, call us at Centron Self Storage. We can help you avoid making the kinds of mistakes that ruin a lot of people’s storage experience. Call our North York office (647) 749-1397. Make an appointment with one of our storage specialists to learn more. We can help you rent now or help you prepare for renting later when you’re more certain of your particular storage needs.
Storing School Supplies in Innovative Ways
Anyone that teaches school, has a student in school, or supports the educational system knows how many school supplies kids can go through in a month or even a week, much less an entire year. Schools can get big discounts on supplies if they buy in bulk. However, sometimes schools don’t have the storage space available on campus to keep all the supplies they need. Many school officials find themselves in a situation where their supplies are kept several miles from campus, making it difficult for them to get access to items they need when they need them.
The Need for School Supplies
Obviously, school supplies have to be available to our young people in order for them to get the best possible education. Classrooms without proper supplies are unable to complete important projects in a timely fashion. With overcrowding in some school systems, many modern campuses are trying to make every square inch of space count, thereby minimizing the amount of space available for storage. This can create something of a perfect storm where students and teachers alike need supplies, but cannot reach them without significant delay.
Availability Is Key
When supplies, additional furniture, or other critical products to educators, their difficult job can become more frustrating. The challenge is to find a nearby place that allows schools to safely store supplies without worrying about them being ruined or stolen. They place these precious commodities in the hands of someone else, and it is critical they can get to those supplies quickly and know that they are safely and securely stowed.
Using Self Storage Units
One of the most effective methods to store school supplies off site is to use self-storage units. There is a great deal of versatility involved here, as supplies can be stored in another location that is completely dedicated to storage. In an innovative, new move, some storage facilities provide individual storage units that can be moved directly to school grounds. These units give teachers access to supplies at a moment’s notice. The best part is that when this type of storage is utilized, the contents inside of them can be kept safe and secure indefinitely on campus.
If you have the challenge of properly storing supplies for your educational program, and often find yourself without the items you need, contact Centron Self Storage. We have more than one location serving Ontario, Canada, and our professionals can help you decide which type of setup is best for you. Instead of worrying about supplies, call Centron Self Storage at 416-739-0000 and remedy the situation today.