Have you decluttered your attic and assigned the keepers into dedicated zones? If so, you will now want to set up storage systems, so that you can STAY organized in the attic. Here are some unique attic elements to consider when creating sustainable attic storage systems.

One entrance
Most attics have only one entrance, so if the area immediately inside that entrance gets clogged, it will sabotage your entire attic storage system, right out of the gate. Leaving that area clear is the key to keeping the rest of your attic organized, so resist the temptation to stash stuff in that open spot at the top of the stairs. Keep an open pathway throughout the attic, so that you can more easily find and access what you put up there. After all, what’s the point of keeping something if you can’t find it?

Floor structure
Some attics are structurally better for storage than others. Multiple vents and pipes can make it difficult to stack or shelve items. Lacking a floor makes it difficult too. Many attics floors are just open rafters and insulation. A product that I like for this problem is the Lock & Rollin Flooring Solution. It’s easy to install, it can fit through the narrowest entrances, and it can increase your storage options 100%!

Limited height
One of the advantages of stockroom space is that you can take advantage of vertical space. The problem with attics, however, is that the height tends to be pretty limited. Still, it is worth setting up three or even two level shelves to maximize space and accessibility. Modular shelves like the plastic ventilated storage unit from Home Depot are a good inexpensive solution, for small to medium bins.

Dirt
Attics, off course, tend to be very dusty and no one is in the habit of cleaning them. You may have the option of storage things in open baskets in your closets, but not in your attic. It’s best to go with clear plastic bins with LIDS. I like the 12 gallon flip top totes, because you never lose your lid and they fit perfectly, 2 per shelf, on the shelves mentioned above. Clear bins keep the contents easier to identify.

Temperature
The attic sees a range of temperatures, even more extreme than the garage. So you need to think twice about what you store up there. While the attic tends to be one of the best places to store keepsakes, it is best to make an exception for photographs and film. They can be destroyed if it gets too hot.

The attic is more out-of-sight, out-of-mind than any other room in the house, but it is a mistake to think of it as the place to hide things. By working with its limitations, you can maximize your storage systems. You can ensure that you won’t waste hours looking for things and won’t waste money, buying things you already already have, but can’t find.

It’s a big project, so if you’d like some help, be sure to take advantage of The Attic Attack Special that we are offering this month.

#atticstoragesystem