Extend the life of your lawn mower by following these safe storage rules For many of us, we don’t often think about our lawn mower. After all, it’s just a tool that does a job for us. We don’t lay awake at night dreaming of our next lawn mower purchase. &nbsp;It’s precisely because of its utilitarian use, that we should make sure that we are always taking the best care of our lawn mower. We should make sure that we are properly storing our lawn mower to ensure that it does its job the way it was intended for many, many years. &nbsp;That way you can spend your time – and your money – on things you do lie in bed dreaming of! Storing your lawn mower safely can save money Failing to properly store your lawn mower can be an expensive mistake. Like any piece of machinery, you need to take care of it for it to work properly. &nbsp;If you don’t store your lawn mower the right way it can: <ul id=''><li id=''>Rust </li><li id=''>Seize up </li><li id=''>Require replacement parts </li><li id=''>Not work when you need it </li><li id=''>Leak fluids </li><li id=''>Be dangerous to operate </li></ul>Tips for proper lawn mower storage Now that we understand the importance of proper lawn mower storage, how do we go about doing that? Here are some things to consider. ‍Keep your lawn mower in a cool and dry location Extreme weather is tough on anything mechanical, and your lawn mower is no different. So, look around for a place that is protected from rain, wind, and hot temperatures. Cover it up! Invest the money to buy a good cover that goes completely over the lawn mower when not in use. That will prevent weather, bugs, and animals from doing damage to it. &nbsp;No gas! Many people ask if you should store a lawn mower with a full tank of gas. The answer to that is no! Leaving gas in the tank is a recipe for corrosion and other damage. So only put the amount of gas in that you need and make sure it is drained after each use. &nbsp;Remove the battery The same principle applies to a battery-operated lawn mower. &nbsp;Leaving the battery in will cause the battery to lose charge and will reduce the life of it. So, remove the battery and store it in a cold, dry space like a basement. This is especially important when you are storing your lawn mower over winter. &nbsp; How do I store my lawn mower over the winter? Living in Canada, we know that we are going to have to store the lawn mower over the winter. For that, we will need to take extra care. &nbsp;Although the principles of how you store it in the summer and winter are the same, before you put your lawn mower in storage for the year you should do the following: &nbsp; <ol start='1' id=''><li id=''>Remove spark plugs </li></ol><ol start='2' id=''><li id=''>Drain the fuel, if it is a gas mower </li></ol><ol start='3' id=''><li id=''>If a battery mower, remove the batteries </li></ol><ol start='4' id=''><li id=''>Thoroughly clean the lawn mower </li></ol><ol start='5' id=''><li id=''>Inspect the blades and replace any that have chips in them. &nbsp;</li></ol><ol start='6' id=''><li id=''>Sharpen any blades that you are not replacing </li></ol> In terms of where to store the lawn mower, you should look for a place where it will be safe from winter weather. In parts of the country with milder winters, an outdoor shed or garage might provide ample protection. In other parts of the country, you will need to ensure that it is in a heated basement, or a self-storage locker. &nbsp;Like and follow MoveBuddy on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076870735671' target='_blank' id=''>Facebook</a> to be alerted to other household and moving tips and tricks in our Learning Centre! &nbsp;

For many of us, we don’t often think about our lawn mower. After all, it’s just a tool that does a job for us...

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As the winter comes, you will more than likely have to take some stuff out of storage as well as put some back in. &nbsp;Lawn equipment, summer clothes, and other summer-related items will just take up space and get in the way, especially if you are taking out your winter gear. &nbsp;When storing things for winter, more precaution is necessary as you are dealing with cold and damp weather that will damage your belongings if they aren’t stored properly. &nbsp; &nbsp;To give you a jump start on your winter storage, we have compiled some helpful tips you can use to ensure you don’t come back in the spring and find your belongings damaged by the cruel Canadian winter. &nbsp;Put Away Summer-Related Items The best place to start is by taking everything you won’t need until the summer. Grab on to summer clothing, beach gear, lawn equipment, and whatever else will be of no use in the winter months and pack it away safely. Choose What Will Stay At this point, you can start making a list of everything you would like to store. You may come across some items that you are certain won’t be used, so it is best to take the plunge and dispose of it, donate it, or give it to a friend. For everything else, get a good idea of what you want to store and what your storage space can handle. &nbsp;Thoroughly Clean Your Belongings Before you decide to store an item, be sure to give it a very good clean. Dirty items can produce mould and even attract pests, so making sure everything is clean will save you a lot of hassle. Give everything a thorough wipe down and make sure they are dry. Make sure blankets and other fabrics are entirely dry before you store them, as they attract mould the most. &nbsp;Decide Where Where You’ll Store Your Items While storing your summer items in the garage may seem like a good idea, you may be taking up space that you will need for winter equipment like shovels, snowblowers, toboggans, and more. Renting a self-storage unit may be your best bet. &nbsp;Most self-storage units allow you to access your belongings at any time and are in secure facilities. Having an additional space for storage will ensure that you aren’t cluttering up your home. To learn more about self-storage, check out our ‘<a href='/post/why-self-storage-pros-and-cons' id=''>Why self storage? Pros and Cons</a>’ article. Protect Your Belongings The winter can be tough on your items so take the time to protect them from the cold and wet weather. Don’t store your items in a place that is sure to get a lot of condensation, and use blanked and furniture covers to prevent dust build-up and dents. &nbsp;Don’t Store Electronics on the Ground Electronics are the most sensitive to cold and wet weather as a small amount of condensation will be the end of most electronics. When storing electronics, try to keep them in a dry area and never store them on the ground. &nbsp;Climate-Controlled Units If you have a lot of electronics and other temperature-sensitive items that you are looking to store, your best bet is to rent a climate-controlled self-storage unit. Climate-controlled units ensure that a consistent temperature is kept throughout the unit, ensuring that none of your items are subjected to mould build-up. &nbsp;To learn more about what items benefit the most from climate-controlled units, check out our ‘Climate-Controlled Self Storage Units and What You Need Them For’ article. &nbsp;These are some helpful tips that will make storing your belongings through the winter breeze. The winter can be cruel, so be sure you properly store your items, so you aren’t forced to part with them come spring. &nbsp;If you are considering using a storage unit outside of your home and want to learn more about all of the variants and their benefits, check out our ‘<a href='/post/different-types-of-storage-units-explained' target='_blank' id=''>Different types of storage units explained</a>’ article. ‍

As the winter comes, you will more than likely have to take some stuff out of storage as well as put some back in

After years of dreaming of the moment, you have finally arrived at this point. It’s a dream to be here, holding them finally. &nbsp;Drinking in that sleek design. The world-class craftsmanship. &nbsp;These cost as much as your first car. They cost about 25 percent more than you told your partner, in fact. &nbsp;But, they are so worth it. &nbsp;After years of working hard, you have finally pulled the trigger and bought your dream set of golf clubs! Some people may judge, but they don’t golf. They don’t understand how precious these clubs will be. &nbsp;You can almost see that extra 20 yards you’re going to get on your drive, the backspin you’re going to put on your chips! These clubs are going to finally see you beat that loudmouth, Doug, too. It’s going to be glorious! These clubs are your pride and joy. &nbsp;Which is why you are going to keep them in…the trunk of your car? What? I thought you said these were valuable? &nbsp;To be serious, a good set of golf clubs can cost upwards of $1,500. Even an entry-level set can cost $500, which is a significant amount of money for discretionary spending for most of us. You want to treat them right so that you can see them last for several years. &nbsp;That means you should store them currently. What does that mean exactly? Here are some tips on what to look for when you are storing your golf clubs: ‍<ol start='1' id=''><li id=''>What was that noise?! </li></ol>Golf clubs are delicate. They’ll break, or bend if they are used in ways that they were not designed for. That most often happens when the club is accidentally smashed or slammed against something. &nbsp;And that most often happens in the place that most people store them – the truck of your car or the back of your truck. &nbsp;You hit bumps when you drive. Things shift in the trunk. So, and we can’t stress this enough, don’t store your golf clubs in your car. The only time they should be in your car or truck is on the way to the course. &nbsp;Instead, put them someplace where they are out of the way and where they won’t be moved. &nbsp; ‍<ol start='2' id=''><li id=''>I swear I left them here </li></ol>The other thing that golf clubs are, is expensive and easy to sell on Kijiji or Craig’s List. That makes them a very tempting target for unscrupulous people to steal. So, don’t store them in a visible (like outside) or obvious (garage or shed) location. It’s unfortunate, but, if you do, they will get stolen eventually. &nbsp;You should put the clubs in a place that is inside and away from a window. &nbsp; ‍<ol start='3' id=''><li id=''>Is that mold? </li></ol>Like any metal product, you’ll want to make sure that they are kept in a dry place to avoid getting rust or mold on the clubs. &nbsp;It’s truly ironic how many golfers will carefully wipe down their clubs after every swing, only to then store them in a damp basement when not playing. &nbsp;‍<ol start='4' id=''><li id=''>Consider self-storage </li></ol>You’d be surprised how inexpensive self-storage is, especially in rural areas close to your home course. So, one great solution might be to rent a small storage space that you can keep the clubs in, as well as other lesser used household items like Christmas decorations, or seasonal sports equipment. &nbsp;Most storage facilities will have temperature-controlled units that will keep your clubs in good-as-new condition and with 24/7 security, you can be assured that the clubs will be there when you need them. ‍Search on MoveBuddy to find a storage solution near you or your course. &nbsp; If you take these steps, you can enjoy your clubs for years to come! ‍

After years of dreaming of the moment, you have finally arrived at this point. It’s a dream to be here, holding them finally. 

<h4 id=''>Keeping that lawn green (ish) and healthy in the Summer </h4>Canada has a lot of weather. That’s a blessing in many cases, but when it comes to maintaining your lawn, it can be a real challenge. &nbsp;A challenge that you’ll want to meet as, beyond the simple pride of doing so, a healthy lawn does wonders to increase the value of a home. And, as the most valuable investment, most of us have, that is something you want to take care of. &nbsp;Earlier this year, we looked at things that you can do to get your lawn ready for the Summer. Now that we are in those dog days of extreme heat, and we are starting to see the wear that the season brings, let's have a look at the ways to keep your lawn as green and lush as possible, even in the harshest summer conditions. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<h4 id=''>I’m hungry. Feed me! </h4>Many people make the mistake of not giving their lawn the nutrients that it needs. They assume that nature will do that for them. &nbsp;Nature doesn’t care about your lawn. Not really, anyway. You’ll need to give your lawn a good feeding every few weeks. Go to your local lawn care store and ask them for the best feed, and then set a schedule that you stick to. It’s the last Tuesday of the month? Lawn Feeding Day! &nbsp; ‍<h4 id=''>CHUG! CHUG! CHUG! </h4>Remember back to your college days when you had a bit too much to drink at that frat party? Yeah? Repeat that, only with water and for your lawn. &nbsp;No, seriously, when you think that you have watered your lawn enough, give it another few minutes  After, find a trowel to check how deep the water got down in there. You’ll want it to be between 12cm (4 inches) to 18cm (6 inches). &nbsp;‍<h4 id=''>The best time to drink is in the morning.  </h4>For your lawn, silly! &nbsp;Why? Breaking news: Summer is hot. Your lawn will lose less water to evaporation the cooler the temperature is. That’s generally in the early morning. &nbsp;So, set the coffee maker. ‍<h4 id=''>Cuts like a knife </h4>You want to make sure that your lawn mower’s blades are really sharp. You see, otherwise, the blades of grass will be chopped ragged, which leads to moisture being lost as the water is less effectively moved to the roots. &nbsp;It may seem like a small thing, but the details are important! ‍<h4 id=''>Weeds are the enemy.  </h4>We know, we know. No one likes to weed, but you have to make sure that you are keeping the lawn weed free. There are lots of healthy/organic pesticides available that can help you here, otherwise…you may need to round up some help to manually remove the most stubborn weeds. &nbsp;Get ‘em by the roots, otherwise, you’ll be right back at it in a few weeks' time. Bottom line, if you follow these easy tips, your lawn will be the envy of the neighborhood, and you will be doing all that you can to protect your important real estate asset. ‍

Keeping that lawn green (ish) and healthy in the Summer

<h4 id=''>Be master of your domain! </h4>You’ve been staring out your window all winter with a wistful look on your face and frustration dominating your thoughts. &nbsp;The white cover of snow taunts you. It prevents you from demonstrating your true purpose in life – your greatest, crowning achievement. &nbsp;The thing that everyone knows you as. &nbsp;You feel lost. Alone. Without purpose. &nbsp;But then there is hope. The Great Melt begins. Soon you will return to your calling. &nbsp;For you are Doug: Master of his Yard! The rest of us can only bow down to Doug’s ability to maintain the perfect, green oasis every summer. It seems impossible to match his ability at maintaining such perfection. Don’t be intimidated, though. You, too, can do the same if you follow a few basic principles. And, it all starts now, in the Spring, with the early work that transforms the yard from the wasteland that Winter left behind to the envy of the neighbourhood. &nbsp;If you follow these simple suggestions, you can be far along the way to matching Doug and becoming Mary: The Magnificent Yard Magician: <h4 id=''>Poke some holes in it &nbsp; </h4>The choice to fertilize or treat your lawn is a personal one and one where there is no right answer. With increased attention given to creating <a href='/post/how-to-properly-dispose-of-hazardous-chemicals-before-moving'>environmentally safer products</a>, there will be options for the green conscious. However, many will still prefer to take things naturally. &nbsp;That might be for ethical reasons or for aesthetic reasons – some believe a more natural look is more appealing than a flat green. &nbsp;However, regardless of your feelings on treating your lawn, there is one thing that everyone can do and that will benefit any lawn. &nbsp;You should aerate in the spring. By turning the ground up, you will allow the nutrients, rain, and sun that the grass and plants need to thrive to get where it needs to.Best of all, this is a straightforward task. It’s really just a nice walk on your lawn with a roller. If you don’t own one, most Big Box stores can rent you one, or a landscaping company can provide the service at a reasonable price. <h4 id=''>Spring Cleaning: Not just for inside </h4>Winter can leave you surprises. The snow can wash a lot of funny things up onto your lawn. Dead grass, clumps of mud, and stones are just a few of the more natural things you can find laying there just waiting to get picked up.Discarded toys, doggie bags (and not the good kind that you bring home from your favourite restaurant), coins, and plastic of all sorts are some of the less natural. &nbsp;No two ways around it. You have to pick it up. Make a game out of it. Send the kids out and whoever picks up the most gets to pick out what’s for dinner! &nbsp;‍<h4 id=''>Sow the seeds of a great summer </h4>Beyond the junk that winter leaves on your lawn, it will also just wreak havoc on the surface. You will inevitably find dead patches and even holes left behind. &nbsp;Don’t fret. You were taking a run to the nursery any way to grab the flowers for the garden. Grab some grass seed and turf while you're there. Then fill in any holes and spread the seeds. &nbsp;A good rule is to put twice as much seed down as you think, as less of it will take than you assume. &nbsp;‍<h4 id=''>Trees and scrubs need love too </h4>Lastly, don’t forget your old friends in the garden and yard. You’ll need to inspect all your trees and scrubs for dead branches and leaves. &nbsp;And then you need to remove them. Even if it seems that you are cutting half the plant away, it will lead to a fuller and more attractive plant later in the summer. &nbsp; There ya go! That’s all it takes to get yourself started to be the Master or Mistress of your yard this summer. Watch this space for more tips throughout the growing season. &nbsp;‍

<h4 id=''>Spring Cleaning’s branding problem </h4>When you think about Easter, many things come to mind. &nbsp;For some, it might be family. Others may associate it with their faith. Chocolate is a favourite of many. &nbsp;Especially those wonderful, gooey eggs with the cream inside. &nbsp;Ummmmm gooey eggs. Ahhhhhhhh…. Wait, what was I saying? Oh, yes, Easter! Whatever it means to you, it is also kind of the unofficial start to Spring in Canada. In most parts of the country, the weather has finally started to warm up* and the Easter holiday can offer an opportunity to reflect and recharge after surviving another Winter. &nbsp;*This being Canada, we all understand that we might still have another blizzard on the way, but we can at least start to hope that the weather is going to start to turn. Some people like to use the end of Winter as a chance to do a deep clean of their space. Spring cleaning is an ominous and dreaded task that promises to eat up an entire weekend. But, it doesn’t have to be like that. &nbsp;You see, Spring Cleaning suffers from a branding problem. Instead of negatively framing it around a chore, let’s look at it differently. Let’s call it Spring Recharging instead! So, what’s a Spring Recharge? &nbsp;Let’s have a look: ‍<h4 id=''>A Nitty Gritty Dirt Plan </h4>Winter is a lot of things. Clean, is not one of them. &nbsp;That’s especially the case in urban areas, where road salt and dirt can get tracked into your home constantly. Even the most diligent of housekeepers can struggle to stay on top. So, the start of Spring is time to finally get all that out of there! We’re not going to lie. This won’t be the most fun part of the Spring Recharge, but think of it like when you get highlights, a massage, or a new tattoo – a little bit of pain up front, leads to a lot of gain at the end. &nbsp;‍<h4 id=''>Out with the old! In with the new! </h4>Stuff happens, man. Things break. One of the best things about your Spring Recharge is that it gives you an opportunity to assess the value of the things in your home. &nbsp;When you’ll do that, you’ll find that there are a significant number of items that simply don’t work anymore, or that have worn out to the point of absurdity (yes, I’m referring to your “lucky” t-shirt, Tyler). &nbsp;Get rid of them. <a href='/post/seasonal-storage'>Or store them</a>. Maybe try to sell them. Regardless, they are just taking up space. &nbsp;Space that can be filled up with new things to love (including a new lucky t-shirt!). ‍<h4 id=''>Refill the nest </h4>Easter is also the time that a lot of students return home for the summer. That is exciting. The house hasn’t been the same since the young one left the nest to pursue that degree in art history that they assure you will lead to a great job upon graduation. &nbsp;It’s also not been the same because you converted their bedroom into a games room. So, you’re going to need to take some time to get the house ready for the summer return of your offspring. You can do that by putting the pool table into the<a href='/ac/self-storage'> storage unit</a> you found through MoveBuddy for the summer and bringing back Tyler’s bed. &nbsp;You should grab your golf clubs while you’re out there, too. &nbsp;‍<h4 id=''>She sells sanctuary </h4>The best part of your Spring Recharge? Time to get that yard, balcony, or patio fired back up. That’s your happy place. The place where you can sit back, relax, admire your garden, and dream about what you’re going to barbeque that night. &nbsp;So, take a trip to the nursery, hang that hammock and replace that propane tank. Sure, the temperatures might be in the single digits for a couple more weeks, but after you finish your Spring Recharge, you won’t care. The end will be in sight! Happy Easter and Happy Spring Recharge! &nbsp;‍

The time has finally come. After years of living with your parents – and living with their rules – and a cramped first year away in your dorm room – you are ready to make the big jump. &nbsp;You and your buddies are a short time away from picking up the keys to your very first apartment! Exciting stuff, right? It is, but it is also stressful to think that a lot of the things that you have taken for granted over the years will be your responsibility now. That’s a lot, and it might even be enough to make you appreciate how much your parents did for you over the years. &nbsp;At the very least, it might make you realize that having your own space isn’t all about having control over the television, not having to turn down your music because your sister is sleeping or planning a big party. &nbsp;The first thing that you’ll need to do – you’ll need to do it before you even move in, actually -- is fill it up with the stuff you need. Fear not, we are here to help you buy all that you need to <a href='/ac/moving'>move</a> into your first shared apartment. &nbsp;Bedroom The bedroom will be the place that you spend most of your time in, especially if you are in an apartment with roommates. So, it’s important that you make it comfortable and a place that you’ll be happy to spend a large amount of time in. &nbsp;You’ll probably have a bed and desk that you can move from your childhood bedroom, but this might be a good time to evaluate whether you want to upgrade these items. Additionally, you should invest in a proper work chair to use at your desk. You might not think that you can develop a sore back or neck from sitting in a poor chair, but, trust us, you can. Spend the money to get a proper chair. &nbsp;You’ll also want to make sure that you have enough storage. Older places may have much smaller closets than you are used to, so an armour or other <a href='/post/find-extra-space'>storage bin</a> might be useful. This is where function, can take priority over style. Most of us are going to have to watch our money. Rather than storing your summer clothes in a closet, think about grabbing a storage bin instead. If you have roommates, plan on making your bedroom an apartment within the apartment. You may want to invest in a mini-fridge and a small smart television. Noise-canceling headphones are also a great idea because, well, roommates make noise that can make it hard to sleep or study! Bathroom Storage is the thing here. You’ll want to make sure that you have a way to distinguish between your stuff and your roommates. Find a small box or bag that can hold all your stuff. &nbsp;Unless you want to share your toothbrush. We won’t judge*. *We will. Don’t do that. &nbsp; Kitchen Don’t assume that you can use your roommates’ plates. Bring your own. &nbsp;You don’t need a lot. Or your grandma’s Fine China. Just grab one bowl, a dinner plate, and a couple of glasses. Additionally, grab a frying pan and sauce pot. The less, the better. It will force you to wash things as you use them and, more importantly, it will prevent the Great Dish War of 2022-23. &nbsp;Many friendships have become victims of previous Great Dish Wars. &nbsp; &nbsp;Livingroom This is where the collective needs to come together. You each will have your own space to do your own thing, so make the living room a fun, study free space. &nbsp;Are you sports fans? Chip in and grab that 72’ TV to watch the playoffs on! Like music? Now is the time to get those speakers. PS5? Yup! But, make sure that there is a plan in place for when someone leaves. Write out a little contract that makes it clear who owns things and what the rules are to use them. If you buy something together, work out in advance what happens when someone wants to move out. Other stuff There’s a lot of other stuff you might not think of. You’ll need tools, brooms, mops, rakes, snow shovels, and a bunch of other stuff. You might not realize all that you need immediately, so work out how you're going to acquire those things as you move forward. &nbsp;A little planning in September can make for less conflict in May and, hopefully, a second year of living together in your very own shared apartment! ‍

The time has finally come. After years of living with your parents – and living with their rules – and a cramped first year away in your dorm room – you are ready to make the big jump

<h4 id=''>Hey Tiger: Get these out of my way! </h4>Some people just can’t understand. They want the laundry room to be a place where you do, well, laundry and nothing else! They do not seem to appreciate that you are just a few practice swings away from realizing your lifelong dream of winning The Masters…which is what you call the Masters’ Division of the Big Oak Golf &amp; Country Club annual Spring shotgun. You were so close last year. You just know Earl cheats! But, yet your partner complains about having to negotiate around your golf equipment every time they must do laundry. And another thing: It is not like they are any better. You’ve been trying to figure out what exactly that smell is that is coming out of the front foyer. &nbsp;It’s like a weird mix of sweat, stale popcorn, and if you didn’t know better, lager. It is especially bad when the 12 hours or so after they get back from the arena. &nbsp;Also, there was that time the dog grabbed one of the hockey sticks and ran through the house causing havoc. &nbsp;If only there was a better way to store sports equipment. I mean, not everyone has a garage. &nbsp;‍<h4 id=''>Storage: Not just for your bachelor apartment couch you cannot bear to throw out </h4>When most people think of storage, they have an image of either really old and outdated furniture that has been stuffed into a square room and forgotten about or a chaotic room full of cobwebs and newspapers from 1986. You can do that with your storage unit if you want – it’s your space – but the reality is that there are plenty of ways to use a unit in a day-to-day fashion. &nbsp;Rather than a place to put things you can’t use, consider it an extension of the space you live in. It can be a place where you put things that you only occasionally use, like golf clubs or smelly hockey equipment. &nbsp;With locations across Canada, you can bet that you will never be far away from that equipment when you need it without it being in your way in your living space. ‍<h4 id=''>Not everyone likes Winter </h4>We Canadians talk a big game when it comes to Winter. &nbsp;We’ve earned it. This country thrives on ice and snow. Just look at our Winter Olympians for evidence. And even if you’re not winning medals, you’re probably out skiing, snowshoeing, ice fishing, playing shinny, etc., all Winter long. &nbsp;You are Canadian. Winter is just the time of year when the ice at the lake is frozen. However, your summer sports, gardening, lawn, boating, etc. equipment isn’t so tough. And, since you want that equipment to be as good as new when the snow melts, you’ll want to make sure that it is stored safely over the colder months. &nbsp;That’s where a heated storage unit can come in handy. Rather than throwing your summer equipment into a cold shed or, worse, under a tarp in the backyard, keep the in a safe, secure, and toasty storage unit you find on MoveBuddy.com. ‍<h4 id=''>The constellations reveal themselves one star at a time… </h4>Whether you call it a cottage, camp, cabin, or chalet there’s something very Canadian about a beautiful summer weekend out on the lake. &nbsp;It might be because those days are so few that we find them so precious. As stated, we embrace our Winters, but that doesn’t mean that we don’t appreciate our Summers. We often go all out to make sure we have all the best equipment needed to make sure the memories we create are happy ones. &nbsp;But realistically, we can only fully utilize our weekend lakeview escapes for about ¼ of the year. The rest of the time, we’ll need to find a place to safely keep our equipment so that it’s ready to go when you open it all back up after the thaw. &nbsp;So, when you’re done enjoying Winter, it’s switcheroo time. Move the Winter equipment out of storage and into the garage, and the Summer replaces it in the storage facility. &nbsp; &nbsp;‍<h4 id=''>Movin’ on up! </h4>Your deluxe apartment in the sky is a lot of things, but big is probably not one of them. As more and more of us move into condos that are in the core of this country’s biggest cities, we find ourselves with less and less space. &nbsp;You can purchase storage in most condo buildings, but it’s very expensive. It can often add as much as $25,000 to your mortgage. &nbsp;So, why not rent from one of the multitudes of <a href='/post/self-storage-vs-portable-storage'>storage options</a> that you’ll find on <a href='https://movebuddy.com'>MoveBuddy.com</a>. You’ll be surprised to find out that many locations are located right downtown in all of Canada’s biggest cities! Whatever the problems in your living space are, it’s likely that having more space can help! &nbsp; ‍

<h4 id=''>Your guide to the fun and exciting world of storage! &nbsp;</h4>So, you’ve made the decision to become a storage person. Awesome! This is a momentous moment in your life and one that should be celebrated. &nbsp;There are few moments in life as exciting as this, so let’s start off by just saying CONGRATULATIONS! You understand that storage solutions are a safe and convenient way to store your belongings during a transition in life, or when you simply require extra space. By making this choice you have demonstrated how smart, thoughtful, and good looking you truly are. &nbsp;But there are still choices to be made. You need to decide what type of storage you want, and we are here to guide you through this crucial decision. &nbsp;‍<h4 id=''>Innie or outie? </h4>Your choice is going to come down to what you need out of the storage solution. You have two basic choices. We’ll break them down for you here. &nbsp;Are you a portable person or more into self-storage? That’s the question. Are you an innie (the home) or an outie? &nbsp;‍<h4 id=''>Let’s talk about portable storage containers! &nbsp;</h4>Imagine for a moment that you have all the convenience of <a href='/ac/self-storage' id=''>self-storage</a>, but right at our doorstep! That’s portable storage. &nbsp;With<a href='/ac/portable-storage' id=''> portable storage</a> you have large, mobile units that are brought to your home where you fill them with your belongings. Once you have filled the container, the company providing the container will transport it to your new home or to a secure storage facility for safekeeping. Amazing, right? Portable storage containers are excellent for a DIY moving and storage solution as well as for temporary renovation disruptions. They allow you to<a href='/post/tips-for-packing-a-portable-storage-container'> pack at your own pace</a> and, by virtue of them being literally on your property, you have access to them at any time of day. &nbsp;The one thing to consider is space though. They’re pretty big and your neighbors may not appreciate the sleek beauty of them as much as you do. For some, self-storage is the answer. <h4 id=''>Road trip to the storage unit! </h4>Who doesn’t like a road trip? And with our listings of more than 300 locations across Canada, you will have plenty of options to pick from if you choose the self-storage option. &nbsp;With convenient hours – many 24/7 -- self-storage units are safe and effective.Many self-storage units are climate controlled, so you don’t have to worry about your golf clubs freezing during those long winter nights. &nbsp;Whatever your choice you can’t go wrong. Now that you’ve joined the storage revolution, you’ll never understand how you lived without it before! ‍

Your guide to the fun and exciting world of storage!


<h4 id=''>Summer is R.V'ing up! </h4>Canada is known for many things. &nbsp;Hockey, politeness, Mounties, the list is endless. But, one thing stands out above all else. &nbsp;Nature. &nbsp;Lots and lots of nature. We are overflowing with clean water, beautiful mountains, impressive wildlife, and endless plains. &nbsp;It’s that beauty that draws Canadians out of their houses and out into their natural surroundings. &nbsp;Canadians love to explore and, for many, that will mean loading up the R.V. and hitting the road this summer. &nbsp;However, before you can get back out on the road, there is some work to do to get that R.V. road-ready for the 2022 season. &nbsp; &nbsp;‍<h4 id=''>Spring Cleaning </h4>It’s most likely that you parked your R.V. in an <a href='/ac/self-storage'>outside storage location</a> for the Winter. Even though paid storage facilities will endeavour to prevent the harshest aspects of Winter from harming your R.V. There will still be work to do to make sure that there isn’t any weather damage. &nbsp;You should take the time to carefully inspect the interior of your R.V. particular attention should be given to the roof, where snow may have piled up. &nbsp;‍<h4 id=''>Inner beauty </h4>Don’t forget to inspect the inside of the R.V. as well. Dust can cause issues, and it’s possible that rodents or insects found their way inside (we will help you prevent that in a blog we publish this Fall). &nbsp;If that has happened, call a professional. &nbsp;If not, give everything a good wipe down! &nbsp; ‍<h4 id=''>Time for a drink  </h4>The next order of business is to check all the R.V’s fluids. Even if you parked it when it was fully topped off, it’s possible that evaporation has taken the fluids down to a level where a quick top-up is needed.   Once you get it back on the road, you should make sure that you get the R.V. to be serviced professionally as soon as possible.   Road trip!  ‍<h4 id=''>You can’t comb over your tires  </h4>It can be easy to ignore early-onset baldness. Just pretend it’s not happening, right?  Unfortunately, you can’t put a hat on your R.V’s tires. Or do a comb-over. And, unlike your hairline, a balding tire isn’t just a sign of maturity, it can also be deadly.   The time when you put the R.V back on the road is also a perfect time to evaluate the state of your tires and, if needed, replace them.    ‍<h4 id=''>Preparing is cool  </h4>R.V. parking space is at a premium, especially in Canada’s biggest cities. So, you’ll want to start planning for next Winter as soon as possible. &nbsp;If you have winter recreational vehicles such as 4-wheelers or snowmobiles it might make sense to maintain the parking space year-round, but if you do not have use for it in the Summer, ask your local storage provider if you can put a deposit down to make sure you’re not left wanting when the cold weather comes back again. &nbsp;   ‍<h4 id=''>Get out and discover Canada! </h4>There are few places on Earth that can offer the diversity of beauty that this country does. And, an R.V. is the perfect way to get out and see it! &nbsp;‍

Our space is shrinking. &nbsp;That’s the reality of this modern time. Whereas many of us grew up in a time when space was easy to find, today we see the rising in housing costs pushing us into smaller and smaller condos and homes. &nbsp;That can cause issues when it comes time to find a place to put valuables that we inherited, are gifted to us from an older relative, or when we ourselves look to downsize our living arrangements. &nbsp;These are things that we may not have space for, but that we don’t want to get rid of because they have high sentimental value, or that they are simply just worth a lot of money, and we have yet to find a buyer for. That’s where storage comes in. Here are some tips on how to properly store your valuable antiques and memories. &nbsp; <ol start='1' id=''><li id=''>Take a good look </li></ol>The first step is to evaluate what it is that you have. Inspect everything and clean it before starting the process of moving it to storage. In some cases, you may find that there has been damage done that cannot be reversed. In that case, you can look to dispose of the item rather than having it take up space. In other cases, you’ll find that giving the item a good clean can make the difference from something being old to it being a valued antique! ‍<ol start='2' id=''><li id=''>Look for the right storage space </li></ol>Not all <a href='/ac/self-storage'>storage facilities</a> are the same. Look to see which ones offered climate-controlled units, have 24/7 security, and that offer support moving in and out of the facility. You are trusting the companies to take care of your belongings. It’s important to do your homework in finding the right fit. &nbsp; This is where MoveBuddy can help. You can search through with the knowledge that all companies listed on MoveBuddy are fully vetted and selected for listing because they are the best of the best. &nbsp; <ol start='3' id=''><li id=''>What is it worth? </li></ol>You need to know what your treasures are worth. Hire an independent evaluator to appraise the value of your collection. That will allow you to better decide what items you wish to hold onto, which you might consider donating to charity, and what you want to sell. &nbsp; It will also allow you to properly insure your belongings. &nbsp; <ol start='4' id=''><li id=''>Pack it right </li></ol>Once you know the value of your belongings, it’s time to get them ready to put in storage. Double check to make sure there is nothing on the items that may cause mold to form or attract rodents. &nbsp; <a href='/product/bubble-wrap-12-30'>Bubble wrap</a> is your friend. Wrap things in it to prevent damage from when items settle or fall in the unit. Lastly, make sure that you have all the help you need to safely move the items into the storage. &nbsp; You may wish to hire a professional mover to do that. You can check MoveBuddy to find the right one! <ol start='5' id=''><li id=''>Don’t be a stranger </li></ol>Finally, once you have put the items in to storage, you should make regular visits to the unit. Once there, you should spend some time cleaning the unit from dust or debris. That way you can rest assured that when it comes time to retrieve things they will be in the exact shape that you left them in! ‍

Our space is shrinking. That’s the reality of this modern time. Whereas many of us grew up in a time when space was easy to find, today we see the rising in housing costs pushing us into smaller and smaller condos and homes

<h4 id=''>Time to get your summer on! </h4>As we approach the most Canadian of holidays – our sacred celebration of the end of yet another Winter. &nbsp;Yes, we’re talking about the May long weekend. It’s known by many names -- Patriots' Day, Victoria Day, May 2-4 – but it’s generally celebrated the same. That is with friends, a beverage of your choice, and under the stars. Even if it’s still sometimes a bit too cold yet, Canadians make sure they are enjoying the outdoors during the weekend. &nbsp;And, for many, that means one thing: it’s time to re-open the Chalet, Camp, Cottage, or Cabin. &nbsp;After a long winter, there will be several things you should do to make sure the re-opening goes smoothly. &nbsp;Here are some things you should do: &nbsp;‍<h4 id=''>First some Adulting! </h4>Before you get down to the fun at hand, you have to be responsible. You need to do things like get the power back up, change the batteries in the smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors, have a peak at the roof to look for weather damage, make sure the water is on and ensure that the septic system is working because everybody, well, everybody needs a working septic system. &nbsp;In fact, you should probably get your septic system and roof inspected by a professional. &nbsp;‍<h4 id=''>Ensure your insurance </h4>We know. Not the most exciting thing, but it’s important. That’s especially the case if you have some new toys, like ATVs, Jet Skis, boats, etc. &nbsp;It’s also important if you’re planning to rent the property during the times you can’t use it. &nbsp;So, give your insurance agent a call and get it sorted. Pronto. &nbsp;‍<h4 id=''>Take a run to the storage unit </h4>Now for the fun stuff! Ok, well, the almost fun stuff. A couple of days before you are set to make the first trip back, take a run to your <a href='/ac/self-storage'>storage unit</a> to have a good look at the equipment that you stored over the winter. If you stored it at a heated facility, the equipment will have escaped the Winter without damage, but you may want to upgrade to newer versions of some of it or sell some that you did not utilize the summer prior. &nbsp;Make a list of what you need and spend the next couple days shopping. Then pack what you’ll need to start having fun on your weekend getaways! Bonus: you’ll free up space in the storage unit to put your Winter toys way for the season. &nbsp; ‍<h4 id=''>Last looks </h4>Once you’ve arrived at your summer home, you should hold off unpacking just a few more minutes to make sure everything is ready to go. Walk around the perimeter of the building to look for weather damage and make a note of anything that might need attention. Then do the same inside, paying particular attention for mold, mildew, or damage from rodents. &nbsp;‍<h4 id=''>Sit back, drink and relax! </h4>Your next task is the most important of all – hang the hammock, pull out something cold and start enjoying your first Summer day of the season! &nbsp; &nbsp;‍

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