Storage Unit vs Garage: Which is Right for Your Needs?

The eternal struggle: where to put all the stuff you’ve accumulated over the years. Whether it’s the ever-growing collection of Christmas decorations or that inflatable flamingo, it’s always good to have adequate storage space. But which is better at keeping your belongings safe? A trusty garage or a dedicated storage unit?

In this post, you’ll be diving into the great debate: storage unit vs garage. You’ll see the pros and cons of each, so you can make a better decision.

Purpose of usage

So, what is the difference between a garage and a storage unit when it comes to how you use them? Let’s break it down.

Garages are built for parking your car but often end up being so much more. Many homeowners and renters transform them into workshops for DIY projects or use them for storage. Often times it’s both. While it’s tempting to put old stuff in your garage, it can quickly turn into a chaotic mess. You need to know how to organise your garage before you run out of room for your car.

Storage units are designed to keep your stuff safe and organised. They also come in different sizes and are often equipped with climate control. That’s perfect for long-term storage of items like electronics, important documents, or anything sensitive to temperature changes.

Convenient accessibility

Let’s talk about the all-important factor of convenience. When it comes to accessibility, garages always outshine storage units. And how can they not? You can pop in and out at any time and it’s right next to you. 

However, that convenience can come with a catch. Over time, you tend to put more and more items in there. In the end, you postpone going to the garage because you can never find what you’re looking for.

On the other hand, storage units require a bit more effort, because they’re not close to your home. Some units offer 24/7 access, while others have set hours, so it’s worth checking the fine print. 

The good news? With various sizes available, you can choose a unit size that gives your belongings the breathing room they deserve. No more playing hide-and-seek with your stuff! Everything can be neatly organised and easily accessible without the risk of tripping over that forgotten box of holiday decorations.

Security features

Garages often rely on basic locks, which, let’s face it, might not do much to deter a determined intruder. Unless you’ve invested in some serious upgrades, the security of your garage largely depends on the overall safety of your neighbourhood. Not only that, but garages can become infested, which isn’t exactly ideal if you’re storing anything of value.

Storage units, on the other hand, take security to a whole new level. Most facilities offer enhanced features like surveillance cameras, coded entry gates, and individual unit alarms to keep your items secure. Plus, with pest control measures in place, you can rest easy because your belongings are safe from both intruders and creepy crawlies.

Cost considerations

Let’s talk money. Is storage expensive, how much does a storage unit cost in the UK and things of that nature.

Garages, while seemingly free additions to your property, carry hidden expenses. Though lacking a monthly fee, garages demand their own upkeep and associated costs. From occasional maintenance to potential repairs (hello, creaky door!), these expenses can add up over time. Plus, if you plan to upgrade with security features, that’s another cost to factor in.

When it comes to storage units, the pricing is a bit more straightforward—but it can vary widely depending on what you need. So, is storage expensive? It depends on size, location, and features like climate control. On average, the cost of a storage unit in the UK can range from around £20 to £50 per month for smaller units. Larger ones cost more.

You can check out this handy guide on UK storage costs for more details. Many storage facilities offer discounts or promotions, so keep an eye out for deals that could help you save some cash.

Flexibility and scalability

Garages are fixed in size and location and this greatly limits their flexibility. Simply put, that space can’t be easily adjusted as your needs change. If you need to expand or contract, you might find yourself with either too little or too much space. Additionally, you can’t move the garage along with your other stuff. It’s going to be really difficult to find a new property with a garage the same size or larger than the one you rented previously.

Storage units, on the other hand, offer a range of sizes, so you can find the perfect fit as your needs change. If you need more space, you simply upgrade to a larger unit. Or you can switch to a smaller one. Plus, with multiple locations and options within those facilities, you can move your belongings around with minimal hassle.

Environmental control

When it comes to keeping your belongings in tip-top shape, the environment they’re stored in can make all the difference. Let’s dive into how garages and storage units handle temperature and humidity.

Do garages retain heat? Not really. A garage without insulation or climate control is at the weather’s mercy. Let’s be honest, your garage is probably like that too. You can store some items, like sleeping bags or sofas, but electronics or wooden furniture, you should never. They may suffer from mould or deterioration. Basically, don’t store items sensitive to temperature and humidity swings, like delicate documents or important electronics.

Storage units, on the other hand, often come with climate control options. These keep things cool, dry, just right for storing sensitive items. Whether it’s electronics, documents, artwork, or even a vintage vinyl collection, climate-controlled storage units provide a stable environment. While there are still some things you cannot store in a storage unit (like perishable food or hazardous materials), it’s still way better than the garage.

To summarise it all….

In the end it comes down to how bad you need all your items stored and how much you are willing to pay. If you need the extra space, then it’s storage services for you. If you’re willing to declutter and only leave the most essential items, then you’re fine with sticking to your garage. To sum it all up.

Garage

Pros

Cons

Storage units

Advantages

Disadvantages