Living in Morgantown, we’re no strangers to the beauty of four distinct seasons. From the landscape around Dorsey's Knob Park to the snowy winters that transform Mountaineer Field into a winter wonderland, our temperate continental climate is a significant part of our identity. But, as any long-time resident of Monongalia County will tell you, those warm, humid summers and chilly, below-freezing winters can be tough on more than just us—they can be brutal on our belongings. This brings up a question that many of us face when we're in need of extra space: is it worth paying for climate-controlled storage?
For many in the 26508 area, the answer is a resounding "yes." With average yearly temperatures hovering around 52°F, approximately 42 inches of rain, and about 25 inches of snow, the fluctuation in temperature and humidity can wreak havoc on sensitive items. Before you decide, let’s go through a checklist to see if climate-controlled storage is the right choice for you.
If you’re planning on storing any of the following items, a climate-controlled unit should be at the top of your list:
Wooden Furniture: That antique dresser from your grandmother or the beautiful oak dining set you’re not using right now can be severely damaged by changes in humidity. Wood expands and contracts with moisture, leading to warping, cracking, and splitting.
Electronics: From that extra TV for the WVU game day basement party to your old computer with precious family photos, electronics are highly susceptible to damage from extreme temperatures and moisture.
Important Documents and Photos: Birth certificates, legal papers, and irreplaceable family photos can be ruined by humidity. Moisture can cause paper to yellow, ink to fade, and photos to stick together.
Clothing and Fabrics: Natural fibers like wool, cotton, and linen can be a breeding ground for mold and mildew in a damp environment. A climate-controlled unit keeps the air dry and prevents that musty smell from setting in.
Artwork and Collectibles: Whether you’re a collector of local art or have a stash of valuable comic books, these items are incredibly sensitive to temperature and humidity. Protect your investment with a stable environment.
Musical Instruments: That guitar you’ve had since your West Virginia University days or the piano that’s been in your family for generations needs a consistent temperature and humidity to stay in tune and in good condition.
Understanding the science of storage is key to protecting your belongings. Fortunately for those of us in Morgantown, we have a great local option. Johnson's Climate Control Storage, conveniently located at 3679 Grafton Rd, offers a variety of climate-controlled storage and self-storage options to fit your needs. Whether you need a small 5x10 unit for some personal items or a larger 10x20 unit for the contents of an entire apartment, they have you covered. They also offer Boat Storage and RV Storage, perfect for those who love to explore the beautiful West Virginia landscape but need a secure place to keep their recreational vehicles during the off-season.
While it’s true that a standard storage unit will be cheaper, a climate-controlled unit is an investment in protecting your valuables. Think about the cost of replacing your items versus the monthly cost of a climate-controlled unit. When you consider the sentimental and monetary value of your belongings, the extra expense is often well worth it for the peace of mind. So, the next time you're decluttering your home or in-between moves, take a moment to consider what you're storing. A quick drive past the Don Knotts statue and the WVU Coliseum to Johnson’s Climate Control Storage could save you from the heartache and expense of damaged possessions down the road.
