Just about every homeowner would prefer more storage space. After all, if you can neatly store everything, then you’re far more likely to end up with an organized space you can love. And, when it comes to really maximizing storage potential, your basement might feel like it’s ripe for the picking. Unfortunately, not every basement is suitable for the storage quest.
Frustrating as it can be, you’re best off keeping those overflow boxes out of certain basements for a wide range of reasons. In this article, we’ll consider what those reasons are and why your basement might fall into that storage-free category.
# 1 – Underlying Issues
You probably don’t think about your basement that much. It’s dark, perhaps dingy, and you might only head down there to get rid of a little more household overflow. Unfortunately, this ongoing lack of basement oversight can leave key underlying issues unchecked. Most of which could end up damaging any items you have stored here.
Damp is by far the most common basement issue. This is generally caused by a lack of airflow and can lead to mold growth on any items in storage, especially clothes, as well as any leather or other susceptible surfaces. Equally, you may find yourself facing basement foundation issues, which can make themselves known through cracked walls and uneven flooring. This can again let dampness seep into storage, and it can also increase the risk of rodents moving in and doing damage.
Solutions to basement issues might include dehumidifiers, vent installation, and foundation repairs, but you’ll generally want to keep this space storage-free both during improvements, and for some time afterwards to be on the safe side.
# 2 – Space Setbacks
Most basements are relatively spacious, but you still might want to rethink storage if your basement is a unique shape or has limited free floor space for any reason. After all, there’s no point filling this area up if you can’t actually get down there! Not to mention that an excessively loaded basement is far more likely to fall foul to mold.
On the plus side, smart storage solutions and well-organized shelving here could help you to elevate the space and overcome at least some of this problem. That said, if you’ve taken these steps and are still struggling to step around those endless boxes, then it might be worth rethinking your approach to basement storage in general.
# 3 – Wasted Space
Let’s say there are no underlying issues in your basement, and there’s plenty of space to play with – you’re free to enjoy basement storage all day long, right? Or not, considering that there are far more valuable uses for a problem-free, sizable basement than just storing your odds and ends.In this instance, it’s at least worth looking into potential basement renovations, which could provide you with everything from an additional living space, through to the hobby room of your dreams. All of which simply wouldn’t be possible if you kept clogging the space up for the sake of storage.
Meg is an author at Cinnamon Hollow. She writes on a variety of topics sharing tips and ideas for daily life.
