Many people are torn between paying for a storage unit and using their loft as a storage space. 
While converting your loft into a storage space may save you some money, there are caveats to this storage solution. For instance, it is impractical, difficult, and downright dangerous to store some items in the loft. Although it might work for some people, this option isn’t exactly recommended, and for many reasons. Outlined below are some of the reasons why self-storage is considerably better compared to a loft.
1. Space
Unless you have a mansion, chances are your loft is tiny. Lack of storage space isn’t, however, a norm in mansions. That said, how big your loft will be is determined by the house’s footprint. There is also a big chance that there are beams and eaves in the same, meaning the space available with have height limitations. This however makes it just the place to store small items you want to keep away, and where you can grab them easily without much of a struggle. Some of the things that will fit in a tiny loft include Christmas decorations, suitcases, and family keepsakes. Larger items such as sofas, furniture, and boxes of clothes cannot fit in most loft spaces. Getting them into the loft hatch is a hassle. A self-storage unit, on the other hand, is big enough to accommodate most of the items you have. These storage units come in different sizes – you can choose the right-sized one perfect for your needs. Self-storage units provide convenience and simplicity for storing large and bulky items. You can usually find a Self-storage unit in most locations, self storage in Hemel Hempstead or all over Hampshire or Surrey.
2. Security
Self-storage units provide better security, especially when it comes to storing your valuables and family keepsakes. This is unlike storing such items in the loft where burglars can find them with ease. Keeping such valuables in your home will only make it a target for robbers, another reason you should consider self-storage units. Among other things, self-storage units are protected by alarms, security systems, locks, and CCTV systems. All these are put into place just to make sure your valuables are well protected.
3. Protection
In addition to security, your items are well protected from the elements as well. This includes weather, flooding, and smoke damage. The loft, on the other hand, is susceptible to weather and debris damage. Most people have their hot water systems and boilers installed in the loft area. Should the boiler start leaking, all your valuables will be soaked within seconds, which will not occur with self-storage units. Smoke damage is another factor you should consider if you are thinking of keeping your valuables in the loft. Storage units keep your items protected from all these risk factors and issues, hence is a much better storage option. In addition to this, you won’t have to worry about pests damaging your beloved valuables. This is because you cannot store perishables in storage units. These units are also protected with smoke and fire detection systems which add another layer of protection.
4. Help
Climbing up and down the loft ladder with items on your back isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. It also puts you at risk of injury, especially if doing it all alone. This isn’t, however, the case with self-storage units. There are always staff around to help get your items in the unit. They also have trolleys and other machines that make carrying heavy equipment relatively easy and safe. Most of the staff will be willing to help whenever possible without demanding money from you. Most importantly, you will be able to access everything you want from the storage units with ease. This is unlike a loft, where you must climb up and sieve through various items to find what you came for.