Tips for Storing Metal Carport Components Outdoors
Some homeowners may be compelled to store metal carport components outdoors before the installation day. Such homeowners need to implement a number of precautions in order to prevent damage or corrosion to those materials during storage. This article discusses some of those helpful precautions.
Separate the Components
The manufacturer of your metal carport may have used bands to hold several components together during the transportation process. You should not store those components outdoors when those bands are still in place. This is because some of the components may be damaged by the weight of the components that are above them if they are held together. Secondly, bundled components can easily trap moisture or condensation between them. Rust and corrosion can then easily occur during the storage period. It is therefore advisable for you to cut those bands so that you avoid these dangers.
Avoid Vegetation
You should also avoid placing the carport components on vegetation, such as grass. This is because that grass may remove any temporary protective coating, such as oil, which was placed on the metal components to shield them from oxidation. Furthermore, transpiration takes place on vegetation. The resultant moisture that is released can accelerate the rate at which rust and corrosion take place. It is better for you to place a moisture barrier, such as a tarp, on the ground upon which you intend to keep your carport.
Don't Drape the Components
It is not a good idea to drape the metal carport components during their storage. Such draping may easily trap moisture within the space where the components are confined. Condensation can also form on the metal components. A better approach would be to create a canopy above the carport components so that moisture is kept away.
Use Pieces of Wood
It may not be enough for you to cut the bands holding metal components together. You need to a go a step further and make sure that those components will not contact each other during the storage period. One of the best ways to do this is by placing pieces of lumber between the different components so that accidental contact between the metal parts will be avoided during the storage period.
As you can see, extra effort has to be invested to prevent rust and corrosion if metal carports are going to be stored outdoors. Find an indoor storage location if you can. Implement the suggestions above if you can't keep the items indoors. Reduce the duration of storage so that you limit the likelihood of damage to those metal parts.