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Winter Tips For Your Portable Garage or Carport

Winter is one of the most wildly unpredictable times of the year – especially in some parts of the nation. One day it could be snowing an inch an hour and the next day it may be bright and sunny outside.

Here in the Northeast, we have not yet faced a major storm, for the season – but rest assured at least one Nor’easter and some pretty massive windy days are still on the way in.

Here are things you can do to prepare for a big storm and- don’t forget, your cars and stored items are only as secure as your carport is. When the threat of winter is upon your area of the country, make sure that your portable garages and shelters are as safely secured as possible.

The first thing to do when bracing for a big storm is to begin double-checking how you have secured the legs of your portable garage to the ground. The anchors that you use should be properly screwed into the ground and if you are using the portable garage in a windy area, place cinder blocks, sandbags, or other support around the legs for further bracing. Check for any kind of erosion or rust on the support for your portable garage and/or carport – the last thing you want is for your portable shelter to collapse under the weight of a small amount of snow.

If a snowstorm is anticipated, be prepared to clear any snow, ice, or sleet away from the portable garage covering. Placing inordinate amounts of weight on the top of your portable shelter can compromise the integrity of the structure and can cause accidents. If you use your portable shelter to cover yourself while you work on projects, make sure someone is always around or at least in earshot – in case of an emergency, they can help you out.

This is especially important when tools are involved. Your safety is of the utmost concern, so protect yourself when working in the harsh seasons.

Shop for the best Portable Garages at portablegaragedepot.com

What to Do If Your Garage Is Full of Stuff

Garages tend to accumulate all sorts of things that may or may not be important and useful. Your garage may be filled with tools, supplies for household projects, boxes with odds and ends, and perhaps an extra refrigerator or freezer. That can leave you with little free space.

If your garage is packed with stuff, you can clean it out and make room for a car or truck, but you may not have the time or energy to do that, or you may believe that everything in your garage is important and should stay where it is. In that case, you can set up a portable garage in your yard to shield your vehicle from harsh weather.

How a Portable Garage Can Protect Your Car or Truck

A storage shelter is constructed with a steel frame that can stand up to strong winds and has a polyethylene cover that can resist damage from the sun’s UV rays and moisture. If you keep your vehicle in a portable garage, you won’t have to worry about damage from the sun, rain, or snow. A portable shelter should be well ventilated to allow air to circulate and to keep mold from growing.

A portable garage can protect your car or truck from other hazards, such as objects that might get blown around by a strong gust of wind. The durable fabric can also keep animals and insects away from your vehicle.

Where to Put a Portable Shelter

Storage buildings can be set up virtually anywhere, as long as the ground is level and free of obstructions, such as tree roots, bushes, and large rocks. An anchor kit can keep your portable garage securely in place, whether you decide to set it up on firm or sandy soil, asphalt, or another type of surface.

When selecting a location for your portable garage, consider the overall layout of your property. You need to put the shelter in a place where you will be able to get a vehicle in and out without too much difficulty. A garage with doors at either end can make it easier to maneuver a car or truck in and out.

Order a Storage Shelter

The idea of cleaning out your garage may seem overwhelming. Setting up a portable garage in your yard is a simpler solution that will take much less time. It also means you won’t have to sort through all your stuff and decide what to keep and what to sell or donate. If your goal is to get your car or truck protected from the hot summer sun as soon as possible, a portable garage is a quick and convenient solution.

Portable Garage Depot offers shelters in a wide range of sizes and styles to suit all sorts of needs. Whether you need a space to store a car, a truck, or multiple vehicles, you can find a shelter that’s right for you. Order a portable garage today.

Protecting Your Car’s Paint from the Blistering Summer Sun in 2021

The sun’s UV rays can harm more than your skin. If you park a vehicle outside in an area that isn’t shaded, sunlight can damage the car’s paint. With summer 2021 fast approaching, think about how you can shield your vehicle from the sun and protect its paint.

How the Sun Can Affect Vehicle Paint

Sunlight transfers energy to an object. That energy can cause molecular bonds to break. In the case of a vehicle, the breakdown of molecular bonds can cause the paint to fade. Some colors, such as red, tend to fade more than others.

Leaving a car parked out in direct sunlight can also cause paint to flake and peel over time. If things get bad enough, it may become necessary to repaint the entire vehicle, which can be costly.

How to Prevent Sun Damage to Your Car’s Paint

Preventing a problem is generally much less expensive than making repairs to undo the damage. That’s especially true when it comes to protecting your vehicle’s paint job from the effects of the sun.

The simplest way to shield your car from the sun is to park it in a shaded area. If you don’t have a garage, or if other vehicles are already taking up all the available space, you will have to store your car somewhere else.

Building a new garage is an expensive project that can take several weeks or months. In addition, you may not have enough free space in your yard to construct a garage.

Purchasing a portable garage is a simple solution that can save you a good deal of time and money. A portable storage building can be set up quickly in a part of your yard where you have some free space. Just be sure to put it in an area where you will be able to get your car in and out easily.

How to Choose a Portable Shelter

Portable Garage Depot sells storage buildings in a variety of sizes to suit our customers’ wide range of needs. You can purchase a small garage to store one vehicle, or you can select a building that’s large enough for multiple cars. If you have a taller vehicle, such as a truck or an RV, you can choose a garage with a high ceiling so you’ll have plenty of clearance.

Our portable garages are constructed with steel frames and durable polyethylene covers. We also sell accessories, such as anchors that can allow you to set up a shelter on a variety of surfaces and keep it secure.

Summer is almost here, and that means the sun will soon be blazing. Act now to get ready so your vehicle won’t be exposed to harsh conditions that can damage its paint. Order a shelter from Portable Garage Depot today.

Why a Durable Metal Carport Can Protect Your Vehicle’s Paint from the Blistering Sun in the Southern States

Anyone who lives in the southern part of the United States knows that the sun can be scorching. That brutal sunlight can cause sunburn on people, as well as damage to vehicles. If you live in the South and you don’t have a garage where you can park your car or truck, a durable metal carport is a good alternative.

How the Sun Can Damage a Vehicle’s Paint

The sun’s ultraviolet rays can gradually break down the pigment in vehicle paint. An oxidation process can cause the paint to gradually dull in color. In some cases, the paint may even peel and flake off.

When a vehicle’s paint is seriously damaged, it may be necessary to repaint the entire vehicle. A new paint job can be expensive, and if you don’t take action to protect your car or truck from sun exposure after getting it repainted, you will wind up facing the same problem again sooner or later. Repeated exposure to harsh sunlight can also damage other parts of your vehicle.

How a Metal Carport Can Protect Your Car’s Paint Job

Many homeowners don’t own a house with a garage, or they own several vehicles and don’t have enough space for all of them in a garage. If you don’t currently have a place to store your car or truck out of direct sunlight, you don’t have to move or spend thousands of dollars to build a garage.

There is an effective alternative that’s much simpler and more affordable. You can purchase a metal carport and set it up on your property. Parking your vehicle in a carport will allow you to quickly take care of the problem of exposure to harsh sunlight, at a fraction of the cost to build a traditional garage.

Where to Order a Metal Carport

Portable Garage Depot sells a variety of outdoor storage shelters to suit a wide range of needs. Our metal carports have all-steel frames that can withstand rain, accumulated snow, and strong winds. They are also resistant to rust, fire, rot, and termites.

We offer metal carports in a range of sizes to accommodate all types of vehicles, including cars, trucks, and SUVs. You can simply choose an appropriate location with a flat surface and set up a carport in minutes, using ground anchors to secure it in place. Look through our selection and order a metal carport that best suits your needs so you won’t have to worry about the sun damaging your vehicle’s paint.

How to Have a Memorable Picnic

Now that the month of September has rolled in and Labor Day is behind us, some have had their last picnic for the season. In some parts of the nation, things are just cooling down enough to spend time outdoors.

Regardless where on the map you’re located, there are a few key ingredients that will make your picnic a memorable one.

Here are our top 3.

1. Keep it Simple

Picnics are such a fun idea because they’re light-hearted and easy going. You can dress comfortably and come and go as you please. Keep it simple when it comes to food and decor too. Make easy to grab finger foods and stick to the basic staples everyone expects at a picnic.

2. Don’t Forget the Utensils

One thing most everyone forgets when they’re headed out for a picnic are the utensils. When you’re hoping the macaroni salad will stay cold and that you have enough bread for the burgers and hot dogs, you may forget to grab some extra napkins, or even the large knife needed to slice the watermelon. Do yourself a favor and pack them in advance so they’re not missed in the last minute rush to get out the door.

3. Choose the Right Location

Location is such a critical factor in a good picnic. You wan’t an area that’s dry and cool – but not too windy. Somewhere you can have privacy to enjoy the meal together – but not where mosquitoes might congregate. If you will be hosting the picnic in your own yard, it makes sense to set up or make use of a portable garage or canopy for the event. You can set-up tables, decorate and even host a number of people without having to worry if the weather will cooperate.

Portable Garage Depot is your number one source for instant all weather portable garages and portable carport building kits. Our products are available in a myriad of sizes to accommodate anything you may require.

Why You Should Get a Portable Garage Instead

Are you thinking of adding a garage to your home? While it’s probably a good investment for your home, it can be a pricey one. According to Home Advisor’s 2020 cost estimates, the national average cost for adding a garage to your home is $27,496. It might make sense if you’re planning on staying in the home long-term, or you have no problem financing a large investment. If you’re looking for a lower-cost or more flexible solution, however, considering a portable garage.

Portable Garages Are More Affordable

Portable garages are far less expensive than building a garage since fewer materials are required. As there are no traditional walls, doors or windows in portable garages, lower labor costs are far lower, as well. In fact, most portable garages will cost under $1,000…some significantly less than that. In addition, a portable garage won’t raise your property taxes like a traditional garage will, and comes with a manufacturer’s warranty.

Portable Garages Are Faster

Unlike a traditional garage which might take weeks to construct and requires building permitting and the preparation of a site, a portable garage can be installed in a day, nearly anywhere on your property you need shelter for a vehicle.

Carports Are Flexible

Portable garages are available in a wide variety of colors and sizes for all-purpose outdoor use. They’re also surprisingly durable: they feature water-repellant polyester fabric and are treated to resistant to harmful UV rays and even mildew. And the good news is that unlike a garage, your investment in a portable garage can go with you when you move.

Ask an Expert

Portable Garage Depot is a leading provider of all manner of portable garages and shelters for vehicles and other equipment. The shelters and their covers are easy to assemble and use thanks to an easy bolt design that allows you to assemble your shelter with minimum tools in minimal time, without compromising the strength of your new portable garage. View our wide variety of portable garages on our web site, or call us at 800-984-7657 to discuss your storage needs!

Consider Doing a Pre-Winter Check on Your Portable Garage

While it may not feel much like fall yet, wintry weather isn’t far off. If you use a portable garage for your vehicle, your motorcycle or simply household items, it’s a good time to check that the unit is in good condition so it continues to protect your valuable property through the winter months.

Portable garages are great solutions for storage needs. They’re quick and easy to put up, durable, affordable, and can be located nearly anywhere on your property you require storage. With proper care, they can last for many years. If you have one already, take a moment to examine its operating condition.

What to Look for In a Portable Garage Inspection

The first thing you want to look for is how well the cover is holding up and whether it’s properly fitted. It should be tight to reduce the risk of tears. The roof should be free of debris. During the fall and winter, ensure that you remove autumn leaves and snow from your portable garage. To avoid damaging it, be sure to use soft instruments such as a dull edged broom or mop, and avoid shovels, rakes or other implements that could accidentally puncture the cover.

Engage in a Little Gentle Elbow Grease

It’s worth taking a moment to clean your portable garage before bad weather begins. To do so, use mild soap and water, and avoid anything harsh (like bleach) or abrasive cleaners, which could damage cover. During the fall and winter, remove leaves and snow from the base of your portable garage to discourage a build-up of moisture that could lead to mold and mildew, or water leaking in and damaging the items you store there.

If your portable garage is in less-than-optimal condition, you can consider replacing the cover (rather than the whole set-up).

How to Choose a Replacement Cover for Your Portable Garage

A portable garage is designed to provide many years of protection for your vehicles, lawn care equipment, or other belongings. With strong frames and covers designed to stand up to rain, snow, wind, and the sun’s UV rays, a portable garage can be a relatively inexpensive long-term solution to your storage needs.

Even though portable garage covers are tough and durable, after years of wear and tear, a violent storm, or an accident, they can tear. If that happens, but the frame is still in good condition, you can simply purchase a replacement cover, and your storage shelter will be as good as new.

How to Choose the Right Material and Size

When shopping for a replacement cover, choose carefully. Many companies offer replacement covers, but they vary in terms of the materials used and the quality of manufacturing. Some may last years, while others may rip quickly.

Polyethylene is a good choice for a portable garage cover. It is designed to protect a shelter’s contents from water, which could cause major damage to vehicles, especially motorcycles, and equipment. Sealing out water also prevents the growth of mold, which could not only damage the garage and its contents but could also cause health problems in people.

In addition to its water resistance, polyethylene is commonly used to manufacture portable garage covers because it offers protection from the sun’s UV rays. Sun can cause the paint to fade and peel, seriously detracting from a vehicle’s appearance. Repainting a car can be expensive, so it’s better to do what you can to avoid sun damage.

Portable garage covers come in a wide range of sizes. If you aren’t completely sure of the size of your portable garage, take out a tape measure and check. That way you can order the right size replacement cover the first time and not start the process of attaching the cover only to discover that it doesn’t fit and have to send it back.

Replacement covers are designed to be easy to install. You should be able to complete the job with the help of another person, or maybe even by yourself if you have a small portable garage.

Where to Order a Replacement Cover

Portable Garage Depot sells storage shelters in a wide range of sizes, as well as replacement covers. Our covers are made from polyethylene that can protect your valuable belongings from damage caused by a variety of weather conditions. With a new cover, you can easily extend the life of your existing portable garage and save money. Look through our selection of replacement covers and order one today!

Should You Store Your Motorcycle Under a Canopy in the Summer?

While we like to think of our motorcycles when we’re out in the summer having fun riding them, we probably give less consideration to them when we’re not using them. Many people leave their motorcycles out in the summer. After all, it’s not winter…right? After all, the weather is mild.

Leaving motorcycles out in the open, however, leaves them exposed to dirt, dust, rain and UV radiation. If you care for your bike, you’ll want to protect it, even in the summer. If you don’t have space in the garage (or don’t have a garage at all), you can find portable solutions that will protect the investment you have made in your motorcycle and the enjoyment you get from it. It will also save you time having to clean your bike.

Portable canopies are a great solution for protecting motorcycles as well as ATVs from summer’s hazards. These canopies are affordable, sturdy, protective and come in a variety of colors and sizes. They blend easily into your yard and look attractive, and their bright interiors help with visibility inside. The fabric canopies are easy to assemble (so you can put them up and take them down easily or move them to another part of the yard).

During the winter when your motorcycle is in deep storage, you can use the canopy for seasonal equipment, snowblowers, furniture, household items, workshop materials or anything else you need quick access to. Alternatively, if you have no deep storage, a portable shelter can also protect your bike from damage from winter weather conditions.

In Connecticut, Portable Garage Depot is a leading provider of all manner of portable shelters for motorcycles as well as other vehicles. The shelters and their covers are easy to assemble and use thanks to an easy bolt design that allows you to assemble your shelter with minimum tools in minimal time, without compromising the strength of your new temporary motorcycle cover or shed. View our wide variety of motorcycle shelters on our web site, or call us at 800-984-7657 to discuss your motorcycle storage needs.

How to Properly Wash a Motorcycle

Summer is here! That means long, exciting bike rides on those sun-kissed roads. The only downside, of course, is that your bike is going to get dirty. If you love your motorcycle as much as we love ours, then we’re sure you’d agree that cleanliness is key.

So, what’s the best way to clean your pride and joy? Everyone thinks that they’ve got some secret method, but in actuality, it’s a pretty simple process. Let’s break it down, shall we?

Step 1: Gather Your Cleaning Supplies

If you want to clean your motorcycle efficiently, then it’s best to have everything you need in front of you. There’s nothing more annoying than having to run back and forth between the house and driveway everytime you need something.

Here’s what you’ll need

A Rag: To plug exhaust holes

Spray Motorcycle Cleaner: For cleaning your bike before rinsing it.

Sponges: You’ll use these to remove grime.

Brushes: These will be good for areas like spoked wheels that require a bit of elbow grease.

Drying Clothes: You’ll need to dry your bike when you’re done. This will help you do that.

Microfiber: Great for finishing touches.

Step 2: Bring Your Bike To a Shady Area

Before you do anything, make sure that the engine is cold! Don’t start cleaning your bike the second you park it. This could give you a thermal shock. Furthermore, If at all possible, don’t clean your motorcycle under direct sunlight. This will make the soap dry faster, which will cause streaks and water spots.

Step 3: Cover Your Exhaust Holes

Since you’ll be applying soap and water to your motorcycle, it just makes sense to keep it out of areas that won’t benefit from it. To keep water out of your exhaust holes, use a rag or rubber glove.

Step 4: Apply Motorcycle Spray & Water

Motorcycle spray will help loosen the dirt and grime so that you won’t have to rub and scrub as much. When you scrub vigorously, you end up making things worse; so, go ahead and apply the spray cleaner to your dry bike, and let it sit for the duration stated on the bottle. Once finished, rinse it gently with the hose.

Step 5: Lather & Rinse Your Motorcycle

This part is pretty self-explanatory. To make the process go smoothly, start at the top of your bike, and work your way down. Moreover, it’s a good idea to use 2 separate buckets: One for soap, and one for rinsing. Doing this will help keep most of the dirt in the rinse bucket. Once you’ve thoroughly lathered your bike, apply the hose again. It’s important to rinse quickly after sudsing; the longer you wait, the more likely you are to see hard-to-remove streaks.

Step 6: Dry Your Motorcycle

Use an air blower together with a soft cloth. The air blower will help you cast a wide net, which will reach tiny crevices that your hands can’t easily reach. While the air blower will handle most of the drying process, it’s good to use the cloth on specific areas that didn’t get enough air attention.

Bonus: Keep Your Motorcycle Clean With a Pop Up Shed

Not everyone owns a garage. If this sounds like you, then consider a pop up shed for your motorcycle, like these from Portable Garage Depot