Many adults have hobbies or hands-on projects that they want to take part in, but they can often clutter up a home or residential storage space. A garage can fill up with tools and supplies quickly, and a home office can become hard to navigate or find small materials needed for crafty projects. Utilizing a storage unit as a workshop is often possible, depending on the work that is being done. In many storage facilities, your unit can be utilized for tools, materials, boxes, totes, and more, but some facilities may limit what can be stored or projects that can be conducted inside a unit.
Features You May Need For A Workshop
Before you book a storage unit to use for woodworking, crafting, painting, or automotive work, you should consider what features and amenities you will need. Some storage units won’t feature the electricity needed to run power tools or the climate control needed to protect fragile materials.
Working with the manager before renting a unit will help you understand what work can be completed in their storage facility and what amenities they offer. Some storage units may allow loud noises like saws and different tools, while others may not. If a storage facility doesn’t offer the features you need for your workshop, you may be able to find a better option.
No matter what workshop you choose, ventilation is the most important part if you want to protect your projects and supplies. Any kind of work that produces dust or fumes needs to have ventilation in order to avoid airborne bacteria or respiratory damage while working in a small area. Natural airflow makes it easier and more comfortable to work in the space.
Legal And Safety Concerns
A storage facility still has to adhere to legal and safety standards when renting to those utilizing the unit as a workshop. This means that light activity like woodworking, crafting, music, or art may be permitted, but other activities that produce high heat, heavy fumes, or significant fire risk will not be permitted. Other things that will not be permitted when using a storage unit as a workshop include using it as a storefront, meeting place, office, or anything that encourages customer traffic.
Storage Insurance
Having storage insurance is essential if you are creating products, have high-value tools, or want to ensure that your materials are protected in the event of theft. Depending on the value of your tools or materials, you may need additional coverage than what typical storage insurance can provide.
Different Types Of Workshops That Fit In A Storage Unit
Wondering if your hobby or creative side job can take place in a storage unit? Here are some common workshops that can work well in a self-storage unit.
Woodworking is a common hobby that works well in a storage unit. Larger tools like table saws and lumber storage can take up a lot of space around your home or in a garage. A storage unit can be a great way to limit clutter while still sticking to your hobby. When it comes to dust and debris, make sure to find a way to collect excess dust, keep brooms handy, and ensure your tools have enough space to operate to ensure a safe workshop. A 10×20 self-storage unit is the recommended size for wood workshops.
A quiet painting space or dedicated art studio is a great way to utilize a self-storage unit. Art studios will need to have temperature control and ventilation to prevent paint or clay from drying out and help projects dry quicker. Climate-controlled storage units protect your paper and canvases from deterioration and mold growth, slowing your progress or preventing the pieces from being sold. 10×10 or 10×15 storage units are recommended for storing easels, storage racks, or shelves for drying.
Automotive work is another great way to utilize your storage unit. A drive-up storage unit is necessary for this kind of workshop so you can pull in vehicles and drive them out easily. A 10×20 drive-up unit provides enough room for you to walk around the vehicle, slide underneath, and store tools around the perimeter as well. For auto work, using protective mats on the flooring will prevent oil and chemicals from staining the concrete.
Storage Options From 700 Block Storage
Our Salt Lake City storage facility is perfect for your creative hobby or storing your hobbyist tools. Many of our units are climate-controlled, and all are secure and safe. We also offer drive-up units for those wishing to store vehicles, work on them, or who need easier access without using an elevator. 700 Block Storage can make your life transitions easier through quality storage. Start renting today and see the difference self-storage can make!
