Metal Buildings

Ahh winter. If you’re like most of us, winter is the one season being outside isn’t much fun. Guess what, winter is rough on our outdoor supplies, too. The moisture combined with cold temperatures can take a real toll on our belongings. Instead of leaving them to suffer their fate, bring anything that doesn’t have to stay outside into a garage. Don’t forget these 5 things that commonly get left out! The elements can wreak havoc on them, so save yourself some frustration and put them away for the winter. 

Garden Tools

Whether your garden tools are wooden, steel, or plastic, they’re going to fare better if they’re inside. Rain and snow brings on rot, rust, and mold while freezing temperatures can make plastic materials brittle. Clean and dry them before putting them in storage and they’ll be ready to go come spring. 

Flower Pots

Tempted to just leave the flower pots out on your deck all winter? Don’t do it! Terracotta and ceramic pots are porous which allows moisture to permeate. Then, when freezing temperatures hit, that moisture freezes and your pots can crack. Plastic pots can become brittle in the cold, which can shorten their lifespan or cause cracks. Even wood planter boxes can take a beating from the moisture and cold. To be safe (and save yourself money at the garden store next spring), store your flower pots in the shed or garage. 

Garden Hose

Water left in the hose and spigot can freeze, cracking both. Even if you disconnect the hose and it’s left lying on the ground, there could be water somewhere in the line that can freeze. Plus, even a sturdy outdoor necessity like the hose will show wear over time. Placing it inside during the coldest, messiest time of year will keep it looking nice. 

Lawnmowers

We know sometimes they get left outside because their owners simply don’t have inside storage to park them. But, lawnmowers take a real beating left outside all winter. It’s bad for the exterior. But more importantly, it can damage the engine. The air filter can collect moisture and dirt. Moisture could affect the spark plug. Or, the fuel filter can become clogged. You’ll save yourself a big headache by parking your mower inside for the winter. 

Patio Furniture

Some furniture, like synthetic rattan or all-weather composite, is fine outside all winter. However, some materials can be damaged by moisture or cold. To save your nice patio set from rot, rust, mildew, or cracks, store the following inside:

• Wood furniture
• Natural rattan
• Cushions and other textiles
• Plastic furniture
• Wrought Iron

Follow these tips and everything will weather the winter months just fine. Now, if a lack of storage space is keeping you from protecting your belongings, it’s time for a VersaTube building! And, a VersaTube is quick and EASY to assemble. Winter will be in full swing before we know it, so don’t delay.