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Boat Storage: a Guide for Self-Storage

Speed boat going fast

We understand that your boat is a significant investment at South Rock Storage. That's why we offer secure storage units to help you protect your investment. Whether you need to store your boat for the winter or you're looking for long-term storage, we have a unit that will fit your needs.

As you prepare to store with South Rock Storage, follow our helpful guide for proper storage to ensure your boat is ready for the next season.

Please note that these are our recommendations. Do your research, and consult your owner's manual for specific instructions.

Clean your boat

To prepare your boat for storage, we recommend cleaning it thoroughly and drying it completely. This will help to prevent mold and mildew from forming. Be sure to clean all surfaces, including the hull, deck, upholstery, and carpets.

If you have a canvas cover, clean it and ensure it is dry before storing it.

Remove all items from the boat

Before you store your boat, be sure to remove all items from the boat, including life jackets, fishing gear, and any other personal belongings. This will help to protect your belongings and prevent them from being damaged during storage.

Drain all fluids

It's crucial to drain all fluids from your boat before storing it. This includes fuel, oil, and coolant. If possible, open all hatches and compartments to allow air to circulate.

Be sure to consult your owner's manual for specific instructions on how to do this.

Use a dehumidifier

If you are storing your boat in an enclosed space, it is essential to take measures to prevent mold and mildew from forming. One way to do this is to use a dehumidifier to help keep the air dry.

Mold and mildew need moist conditions to grow, so by keeping the air dry and circulating, you can help to discourage their growth. Dehumidifiers work by removing moisture from the air, which can help prevent mold and mildew from taking hold. In addition, it is important to ensure that the space is well-ventilated.

Remove the battery

When you're getting your boat ready for storage, one of the most important things to do is to remove the battery. If you leave the battery in the boat, it's likely to leak and cause damage. The best way to avoid this is to remove the battery and store it in a cool, dry place.

If you don't have a place to store the battery, you can always disconnect it from the boat and leave it outside. Just be sure to cover it so that it doesn't get wet or damaged by the elements. Taking these simple precautions can help prevent your battery from leaking and damaging your boat.

Cover your boat

If you're storing your boat for an extended time, we recommend covering it with a tarp. This will help to protect it from the elements and keep it clean while in storage. Tarps and shrink wrap are relatively inexpensive, and they can save you a lot of time and money in the long run by protecting your boat from the sun, wind, and rain.

Repair damages before storage

As the boating season closes, it's important to consider how you'll store your boat for the winter. While some people opt to keep their boat in the water year-round, this can be costly and cause wear and tear on the hull.

For most people, storing the boat on land makes more sense. However, simply putting your boat in storage is not enough. It would be best if you took the time to prepare your boat for storage properly. This means fixing anything that is broken, worn, or damaged. By taking care of repairs now, you can avoid long wait times and higher costs later. Plus, you'll be able to hit the water as soon as the weather warms up!

Double check your owner's manual

Many people believe that their insurance will cover any damage that occurs to their boat. However, most carriers only provide coverage for accidents and acts of God, not damages caused by a lack of maintenance. You could face a hefty repair bill if your boat is not properly winterized or stored.

Luckily, winterizing and storing your boat doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. Taking a few simple precautions can help ensure that your boat stays in good condition all season long. Just be sure to consult the owner's manual for specific instructions on how to winterize and store your particular model.

Prepare your boat to store

While the requirements to store a boat are different in every case, some best practices apply to all. Please consult with the owner's manual specific to your boat, but we recommend the following at a minimum.

Be sure to give your boat a thorough cleaning inside and out. Besides cleaning your boat, this gives you time to discover anything that might need repair before putting your boat away until the spring. After cleaning your boat, apply a rust inhibitor to your steering and control cables.

Choose the right storage facility

Regarding boat storage, there are a few things to consider to ensure your boat is adequately taken care of:

  • First, you'll want to make sure the facility has proper security in place to deter any would-be thieves.
  • Next, you'll want to confirm that the storage unit is big enough to accommodate your boat.
  • Finally, you'll want to ask about the facility's policy on storing boats during inclement weather. This is important to know in case you need to make alternate arrangements for your boat in the event of a storm.

By taking the time to find a storage facility that meets all of your needs, you can rest assured that your boat will be safe and sound until you're ready to hit the open water again.

Being in the business since 2006, South Rock Storage understands the importance of finding the proper storage solution for your boat. That's why we offer secure, spacious storage units that can accommodate boats of all sizes.

The above tips on preparing your boat for storage are only recommendations. Make sure to consult your owner's instruction manual for specific guidelines on how to prepare your boat for storage.

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How to Choose the Best Storage Unit Facility

There are many factors to consider when choosing a self storage facility. Here's how to find one that's right for you and your situation.

Whether you're downsizing your home or need a place to store extra belongings, finding the best self-storage facility in Wichita, KS, can be tricky. With so many options available, how do you know which one is right for you? Here are some tips to help you choose the proper storage unit facility for your needs. What Is a Self-Storage Facility? A self-storage facility is a popular option for people (or businesses) who need extra storage space. These facilities allow you to rent a unit for a set time, usually month-to-month. Self-storage units come in various sizes, so you can choose one that's just right for your needs. Also, most facilities offer climate-controlled units, which help to protect your belongings from the elements. Choosing a clean, well-lit, well-reviewed facility with security measures in place is essential. What Are the Different Types of Self-Storage Facilities? There are several different types of self-storage facilities, including: Mini storage These facilities typically have smaller units that are perfect for storing a few items. Mini storage units are often less expensive than other types of storage units. Full-service storage These facilities offer a wide range of storage options, making them perfect for storing a few items (like the contents of a bedroom) and more oversized items (like the contents of an entire home). Full-service storage facilities offer additional services, such as packing and moving assistance. Vehicle, RV, and Boat storage These facilities offer secure storage for your car, RV, or boat. Vehicle storage units are typically larger than other storage units and may be more expensive. Climate-controlled storage This type of facility offers temperature and humidity-controlled units, which helps protect your belongings from damage. Climate-controlled storage units are popular for storing electronics, furniture, and other items sensitive to the environment. The Benefits of Using a Self-Storage Facility There are several benefits to using a self-storage unit in Wichita, KS, including: Peace of mind Knowing that your belongings are stored safely and securely can give you peace of mind. Self-storage units are typically more secure than keeping your belongings in your home. Convenience Self-storage facilities are typically open 24 hours a day, making it convenient for you to access your belongings when needed. They're also usually located near major highways, making them easy to find. Flexibility Most self-storage facilities offer month-to-month leases, so you're not stuck with a long-term commitment. This gives you great flexibility as you store your belongings. What to Consider Before Choosing a Facility Now that you know what a self-storage facility is and the available different types, how do you choose the perfect one for your needs? Here are a few tips: Your needs What do you need to store? How much space do you need? Do you need climate control? Answering these questions will help you narrow down your options. You can also ask friends or family for recommendations. Price Once you know what you need, compare the prices of different self-storage facilities. The right self-storage facility can save you lots of money, so check out the offers and ask for a free quote before making your final decision. Self-storage facilities charge by the month, so be sure to factor that into your budget. However, some facilities do not disclose pricing information online, so contact them directly. Location When looking for a self-storage facility, finding one conveniently near you is essential. This will make it easy to access your belongings when you need them. Size When it comes to self-storage, size does matter. Renting a unit that is too small will not give you the storage space you need and could end up costing you more in the long run. The best scenario is that you have a large enough unit for all your items with a little extra space. Here are a few things to keep in mind when deciding on the size of your self-storage unit: How much stuff do you need to store? What type of stuff do you need to store? How often do you plan to access your belongings? If you are unsure which size unit is right for you, most self-storage facilities offer free consultations with staff members who can help you determine which size best suits your needs. Security You want to know they're secure when you're storing your belongings. Ensure the facility has adequate security measures, such as 24-hour surveillance and gated access. Reviews Once you've narrowed down your options, take the time to read reviews of each facility. This will help you get a better idea of each facility's quality. You can also ask the facility for references. Climate control feature Climate control is an important feature to consider when renting a storage unit in Wichita, KS. The feature helps to regulate the temperature and protect belongings from weather-related damage. Climate control is not as important in climates where it is warm year-round. However, climate control is a must-have feature in areas like Wichita, where temperature can change drastically. Customer service You should feel comfortable with the staff at your chosen facility. Be sure to ask about their policies and procedures to get a better idea of their customer service level. Choosing the best self-storage facility doesn't have to be complicated. By considering your needs and comparing prices, you can find the right storage unit facility for your belongings. And don't forget to read reviews and ask for references to get a better idea of the quality of the facility. Choose the Best Storage Unit Facility in Wichita If you're looking for the best storage unit facility, look no further than South Rock Storage. We've been in business since 2006, serving the diverse storage needs of our happy customers. Call us at 316-618-8282 or contact us through our online form.
Hand held up to the camera in a stop motion

Sorry, You Can't Live in a Storage Unit...and Other Prohibited Items

You can't live in a storage unit as it differs from an apartment. Here's also a list of common prohibited items in storage units.

No, you can't live in a storage unit. This is probably the most common rule, and for a good reason. Self-storage is a great way to store your belongings and essential moving supplies when you don't have the space. It is not meant for human habitation. That's just one of the many items prohibited by most self-storage providers.While each facility has its own list of prohibited items to protect its clients' safety and security, some general rules apply to all. Hence, when selecting a facility, it is crucial to be aware of the list of commonly prohibited items, which may be a deal breaker for some people.This article will discuss commonly prohibited and limited things at a storage facility.Why You Can't Live in a Storage UnitSome people think they can live in a storage unit, but this is not the case. You cannot live in one mainly because they are not designed for residential purposes. There is no running water, no kitchen, and no bathroom. While some people may try to make it work, it is not ideal.These facilities are typically designed for long and short-term storage, meaning people will store their belongings for a while. Such an environment is not conducive for living, as you need a place where you can stay with acceptable living conditions.Additionally, these facilities are often closed off from the public, meaning that you would not have access to the same amenities that you would if you were living in a traditional apartment complex, home, or other legal housing option.You can't live in a storage unit. Same with your petsMany self-storage providers do not allow pets, and those that do allow pets have restrictions on the size and type of pet that can be stored.Pets are prohibited for a variety of reasons. The most common reason is that pets can damage property. They can scratch or bite the furniture, walls, and doors in the storage unit.Pets can also track in mud and dirt, damaging the storage unit's flooring. Some facilities also have rules against leaving food out and attracting pests like rats and cockroaches.Some facilities are in shared residential areas, and landlords do not want tenants with pets because they may cause noise or odor issues.Things to Avoid for Self StorageBelow are some items people mistakenly believe they can store in a self-storage unit. While some places, including South Rock, allow for the storage of some of these items, there may be restrictions.Hazardous MaterialsSelf-storage providers prohibit dangerous materials to protect their customers, employees, and the general public. Self-storage units are not designed to store hazardous materials like gasoline, oil, or pesticides. They are a closed environment, which can be dangerous if hazardous materials are present. For example, if a fire started in a storage unit with hazardous materials, the smoke from the fire could be toxic, and everyone in the vicinity could be harmed.Many facilities are located near residential neighborhoods, so it is essential to keep any potential dangers away from these areas.ChemicalsSome types of chemicals can damage the contents of a storage unit, and in some cases, it isn't even possible to store them. This includes bleach, gasoline, and other flammable or poisonous liquids.Chemicals are prohibited because they can corrode and damage the property stored in the facility.Chemicals can also be harmful to people and cause respiratory problems. To protect the safety of their tenants, facilities prohibit the storage of many chemicals.PerishablesSelf-storage is not the best place to store perishable items like food, beverages, and flowers. These items can become spoiled in a very short time, and the unit may never be able to be rented out again.There are a few reasons why most facilities prohibit perishables. The first reason is that it's challenging to keep track of what's in each unit when food items are present.The second reason is that food can attract insects and rodents and infest the entire facility. Many facilities have rules against storing perishable and unpackaged food to keep their units clean and pest-free.Batteries and Electrical ItemsIf you're looking for a safe place to store your belongings, a non-climate-controlled facility is not the place for batteries or electrical items. Some facilities don't allow these items due to their fire hazards. Not only could a battery start a fire, but it can also release harmful fumes that can be dangerous to both you and the other tenants in the facility.Battery-operated devices like video game systems, computers, tablets, and cell phones can also create a fire hazard. If one of these items were to malfunction or become damaged, it could quickly start a fire. Because of this fire hazard, many electronics and battery-operated devices should be stored in climate-controlled units, no matter their size.AppliancesSome units may allow the storage of appliances such as stoves, microwaves, and refrigerators. However, all appliances must be checked with the facility to ensure they are safe to store.In general, most facilities have restrictions or rules on appliances because they can create a fire hazard. Some appliances contain oil or gas that can easily ignite, leading to a dangerous fire.Many appliances take up a lot of space and can be challenging to move, which can cause problems for other tenants in the storage facility.Some appliances can also damage the property in the storage unit. Aside from cases where appliances have caused fires in these facilities, there is also the potential for water damage if a refrigerator leaks or a washing machine overflows.Illegal Weapons and SubstancesThe reasoning behind this rule is simple: self-storage businesses are a public place, and as such, illegal weapons and drugs cannot be stored on their property. In addition, by prohibiting these items, the facilities can help protect their customers and employees from potential harm.While it may be inconvenient to leave illegal weapons or substances at home, it is essential to remember that the safety of everyone involved is at stake. So if you're looking for somewhere to store your belongings, make sure you check the list of prohibited items first.Types of Self-Storage UnitsThere are many different types to choose from. You can rent storage space by the month or year, and there are many different sizes of units to choose from. The most common type is a traditional self-storage unit, a room or garage-sized unit you can rent by the month.These units are typically climate controlled, meaning they are kept at a steady temperature and humidity level to protect your belongings.Other popular types include:Vehicle StorageVehicle storage can be a great solution when you need to free up your garage or driveway space. Self-storage facilities offer indoor and outdoor parking spaces perfect for storing cars, trucks, motorcycles, boats, RVs, and other vehicles. You can typically rent a space by the month or year, and many facilities offer discounts for longer-term rentals.When choosing a self-storage facility for vehicle storage, be sure to ask about security features like locked gates and security cameras. You'll also want to ensure the facility is well-lit and has easy access so you can get to your car when needed. If you're looking for a climate-controlled environment, be sure to ask about the temperature and humidity levels in the facility's parking spaces.Vehicle storage can be a great way to keep your car safe and secure while freeing up space in your home or garage.Climate-controlled storage unitsThese units may be smaller than some of the larger traditional self-storage units available, but they offer all the benefits of climate control. They're perfect for storing documents, furniture, or any other items that need to be kept in a controlled environment.Final ThoughtsWhile storage units can be a convenient and affordable option for short-term storage, they are not suitable for long-term living. The lack of privacy, space, and amenities can make living in a storage unit uncomfortable and impractical. If you are looking for a place to live, please consider other options.Self-storage is a great way to store your belongings, but make sure to check with your local company to see what is and is not allowed. Contact South Rock Storage today. We are an award-winning self-storage facility in Wichita, KS! We have been in business since 2006 and have an excellent reputation for providing affordable, secure storage.We offer storage units as well as expert storage solutions for the entire area. Our clean, safe, and secure facility offers a variety of storage unit sizes to accommodate your needs.
Your life, safely stored.

Book your unit today!

If you are looking for an affordable storage facility with a clean atmosphere, top-notch security, and a friendly staff you've come to the right place.
FAQ

You have questions, we have answers.

When can I move in? 

If there is a storage space available that meets your specific storage needs you can move in anytime.

How much notice needs to be given before I move out? 

All contracts are month-to-month. However, we do require a 10 day notice before you move out.

What type of documentation do I need to provide in order to rent a space? 

We require a government issued photo ID (example: driver’s license, state ID, or passport)

How do I make a payment? 

VISA, MasterCard and Discover (credit / debit) are the preferred method of payment. We also accept checks or money orders.

Are there any items that I am not able to store? 

Liquids, explosives, flammable liquids, toxic materials and perishables. Please contact us if you have any questions regarding a specific item.

Does there have to be someone to let me through the security gates? 

No. At the time of signing you will be given your own security pass code that will allow you convenient access to your unit.

What forms of payment do you accept? 

For your convenience, we suggest signing up for automatic payments – using your valid credit card (VISA, Mastercard, or Discover) or debit card. There is no additional charge for this convenience and it avoids late fees. We also have a drop box for after hour payments.

Do I need to sign a long-term lease? 

No, we rent on a month-to-month basis unless the customer requests otherwise.

Do I need to bring my own lock? 

No. As part of the Move In process, a INSET lock is included with the small admin fee. This type of lock is nearly impossible to breach – and only you will have a key for it. In addition, you may double lock the door, if you prefer.

What are the office hours? 

Tuesday - Friday: 9AM – 5PM
Saturday: 9AM – 4PM
Monday, Sunday: CLOSED

We're conveniently located in Wichita, KS

8282 East Oak Knoll St.,
Wichita, KS 67207

Contact us

We're here to help you find the perfect unit.

Our team is standing by,
ready to assist you.

Office Hours
Monday: CLOSED
Tuesday: 9AM - 5PM
Wednesday: 9AM - 5PM
Thursday: 9AM - 5PM
Friday: 9AM - 5PM
Saturday: 9AM - 3PM
Sunday: CLOSED
We look forward to speaking with you!
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