Is Climate-Controlled Storage Really Necessary in Northeast Ohio?

Climate Control Storage


Norm Kotoch
June 20th, 2025



If you live in Northeast Ohio, you know the weather is anything but predictable. We experience humid, sweltering summers and frigid, icy winters—sometimes all in the same month. When considering a self-storage unit, many people wonder, "Is paying extra for climate control actually worth it?"

The answer depends on what you’re storing. For items you wouldn't feel comfortable leaving in a garage or shed for a year, the answer is a resounding yes. A standard storage unit offers protection from rain and snow, but it doesn't shield your belongings from the intense temperature and humidity swings that can cause irreversible damage.

Here’s a look at what can happen to your valuables without climate control and why it's an essential investment.


The Damage Done by Humidity and Heat


Our humid summers create the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew. This can ruin upholstered furniture, mattresses, clothing, and important documents. High heat can also:

  • Warp and crack wooden furniture, musical instruments, and antiques.
  • Melt or degrade plastics, vinyl records, and electronics.
  • Yellow and damage photographs and important papers.
  • Corrode the delicate internal components of computers and other electronics.


The Dangers of Freezing Temperatures


Winters in the Solon area bring freezing temperatures that can be just as destructive. The cycle of freezing and thawing can cause:

  • Cracking in wood furniture as moisture inside it expands and contracts.
  • Damage to electronics as screens can crack and batteries can be permanently harmed.
  • Deterioration of leather goods, making them brittle.
  • Ruined artwork, as paint can flake and canvases can shrink.


What Items Need Climate Control the Most?


As a rule of thumb, if an item is valuable to you—either monetarily or sentimentally—it should be protected in a climate-controlled unit. This is especially true for:

  • Wood, Metal, or Leather Furniture: To prevent warping, cracking, rust, and brittleness.
  • Electronics: Including TVs, computers, stereos, and cameras.
  • Media: Such as vinyl records, DVDs, photos, and film negatives.
  • Artwork and Collectibles: To preserve their condition and value.
  • Important Documents: To protect against mold, mildew, and yellowing.
  • Mattresses and Upholstery: To prevent moisture absorption and mold growth.


The Security Self-Storage Solution: Total Protection


At Security Self-Storage, our climate-controlled units are designed to maintain a consistent temperature and humidity range year-round. This stable environment acts as an insurance policy for your most sensitive belongings, ensuring they come out of storage in the same condition they went in.

We take protection a step further. Our facility features interior drive-through access, allowing you to load and unload your vehicle inside the building, completely shielded from the rain, snow, or extreme heat. This means both you and your belongings are protected from the moment you arrive.


Don't Risk Your Valuables


In a region with weather as extreme as ours, climate control isn't a luxury; it's a necessity for protecting your valuables. The small additional investment provides priceless peace of mind.

Have questions about what type of storage is right for you? Contact the storage experts at Security Self-Storage VII today at (440) 636-1655. We’ll help you find the perfect solution to keep your belongings safe in any season.


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