Are you looking to store a piano or another large item? Taking the right steps for proper storage can be daunting and challenging, especially when you’re dealing with something as delicate and expensive as a piano. To make sure your instrument is well-protected, it’s important to understand how to store it safely in a storage unit.
In this blog post on how to store a piano in a storage unit, we’ll go over the key steps involved when storing a piano – from spacing considerations to padding materials – so that you can rest easy knowing your precious musical instrument is stored correctly!
Needed Materials
- Moving Blankets and/or Packing Paper
- Cardboard or Plywood Sheets
- Furniture Pads and/or Furniture Gliders
- Heavy Duty Straps and/or Ropes
- Cleaning Supplies
- Humidity Control
Step-by-step Guidelines on How to Store a Piano in a Storage Unit
Step 1: Clean the Piano
Before you begin your move, be sure to give your piano a thorough cleaning. Not only will this make it easier for the movers to handle, but it will also help protect its condition over time.
If you’re unsure of how to do this, it may be a good idea to seek professional help. You can also use a mild cleaner and soft cloth to clean the surfaces. It’s also important to properly dust and vacuum the inside of the piano.
Step 2: Remove All Loose Items
If there are any loose items inside or on top of the piano, such as sheet music, be sure to remove them before you begin. If you’re storing the piano for an extended period of time, it may also be a good idea to remove all strings and any other parts that could potentially rust. But make sure to keep all parts in a safe place as you’ll need them when the piano is ready to be unpacked.
Step 3: Wrap the Piano in Moving Blankets or Packing Paper
Wrapping your piano in moving blankets and/or packing paper will help protect it from dents and scratches during the move. It’s important to use materials that are thick enough to provide protection without being so heavy that they cause strain on the movers.
This is especially true if you’re planning to lift the piano up any stairs or elevators. It’s also important to use packing tape to make sure the blankets stay in place during the move.
Step 4: Securely Tape the Wrapping in Place
Once your piano is wrapped, use strong packing tape to secure the material in place. This will help ensure that it stays in place during transit and prevent any unwanted movement or damage.
However, it’s important to be careful not to use too much tape as this could cause damage to the piano itself. It’s also a good idea to use furniture pads or gliders on the legs of the piano to further protect it from scratches.
Step 5: Place Cardboard or Plywood Sheets Underneath
Before you transport your piano to the storage unit, it’s important to place cardboard or plywood sheets underneath. These will help protect your floors from scratches and other damage that may occur during the move. It’s also a good idea to use straps or ropes to tie the piano down and keep it secure during transit.
If you’re using a dolly, use furniture pads or gliders to help protect the piano from scratches and dents.
Step 6: Lift and Move With Care
When you’re ready to move the piano, be sure to lift it with care. The right technique is essential for preventing back strain and injury. It’s best to have at least two people lift the piano from each side in order to distribute the weight evenly.
Step 7: Attach Furniture Pads or Gliders
In order to protect your floors, it’s important to attach furniture pads or gliders to the bottom of the piano before you move it. These will help ensure that the piano slides smoothly. But be sure to use non-skid materials as these will provide the best protection against scratches and other damage.
Step 8: Securely Strap or Rope the Piano in Place
Once your piano is in place, be sure to use heavy-duty straps or ropes to secure it in place. This will prevent it from moving during transit and protect it from any potential damage.
If you’re putting the piano on a dolly, make sure to use furniture pads or gliders underneath it to help keep it in place. It’s also important to use pads or gliders on any stairs or elevators you may encounter along the way.
Step 9: Cover Exposed Areas With Moving Blankets
In addition to strapping the piano in place, it’s important to cover any exposed areas with moving blankets. This will help protect the instrument from dirt and dust while it’s in storage. You can also use packing paper to cover and protect any exposed areas. It’s important to use materials that are thick enough to provide adequate protection.
Step 10: Use Humidity Control if Necessary
Pianos need to be stored in a dry environment in order to maintain their condition. If you’re storing your piano in a climate-controlled storage unit, be sure to use humidity control products such as moisture absorbers or desiccant packs to keep the piano dry. It’s important to note that these products may need to be replaced over time depending on the humidity levels in the unit.
Step 11: Monitor the Piano Regularly
Once your piano is stored away, it’s important to check on it periodically to make sure it’s in the same condition as when you first stored it. Make sure to inspect for any signs of water damage, mold, or other pests that might have come into the storage unit.
Otherwise, your piano is all set for when you need it! Although it’s a good idea to occasionally tune the piano, you should only do so if you have experience and the right tools. Otherwise, it’s best to call a professional for this task.
Following these steps on how to store a piano in a storage unit will help ensure that you store your piano properly in a storage unit and keep it safe from any potential damage.
It’s important to take the right precautions when dealing with something as delicate and expensive as a piano, so be sure to follow these guidelines when storing yours. With the proper care and maintenance, your beloved instrument is sure to remain in great condition for years to come!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How Should I Store a Piano in a Non-climate-controlled Storage Unit?
A: If you’re storing your piano in a non-climate-controlled storage unit, it’s important to use humidity control products such as moisture absorbers or desiccant packs to keep the piano dry. In addition, be sure to check on the piano regularly to make sure it’s in the same condition as when you first stored it.
Q: Is It Okay to Store a Piano On Its Side?
A: Generally, storing a piano on its side is not recommended, as this can cause string tension problems and damage the instrument over time. It’s best to store your piano in an upright position if possible. It’s also important to use padding materials such as moving blankets and packing paper to protect the piano from scratches and dents.
Q: What Materials Do I Need to Store a Piano in a Storage Unit?
A: When storing a piano in a storage unit, you’ll need moving blankets and/or packing paper, cardboard or plywood sheets, furniture pads and/or furniture gliders, heavy-duty straps and/or ropes, cleaning supplies, and humidity control. Be sure to have all of these items on hand before you begin your move.
Q: How Should I Transport a Piano to a Storage Unit?
A: The best way to transport your piano to the storage unit is by using a professional moving service. This will ensure that your piano is moved safely and securely, and will help prevent any potential damage. If you’re transporting the piano yourself, be sure to use two people for lifting and have the right materials on hand for wrapping and securing the piano.
Conclusion
In conclusion, storing a piano in a storage unit is certainly a possibility, but it’s important to ensure the proper measures are taken to reduce the risk of damage. Invest in moving and handling equipment before moving the piano, wrap it securely for added protection, use as large of a storage unit as possible, store it upright on its legs wherever possible, and keep moisture-absorbing materials nearby.
It’s important to create an environment conducive to the preservation of such a valuable piece of home furniture. With some planning and forethought into how to safely store your piano while you don’t need it, you can protect an investment that could long outlive you.
Making sure your piano stays safe should be an easy task with some expert advice and help from friends and family. With all these tips on how to store a piano in a storage unit in mind, storing your prized possession in a secure and climate-controlled storage unit won’t be overwhelming at all – it’ll be downright easy! That’s why finding the right storage unit should be done with confidence and without worry for the future safety of your instrument.
