The sweet smell of freshly cut grass, the satisfying hum of your lawnmower engine, and the feeling of accomplishment as you admire your manicured lawn – these are all part of the joys of lawn care. But once the season ends, the question arises: where do you store your precious lawnmower? Many homeowners don’t have the luxury of a dedicated shed, leaving them wondering how to protect their investment from the elements and keep it in good working order. This article will guide you through various effective storage solutions without the need for a shed.
A Quick Overview
Storing your lawnmower without a shed requires a bit more creativity and attention to detail. You need to prioritize protection from moisture, dust, and pests while ensuring easy access. This guide will cover storage options like using a tarp, DIY covers, and even repurposing existing structures. We’ll also discuss essential steps like cleaning and preparing your mower before storage.
Choosing the Right Storage Location
The first step is to choose a suitable location for your lawnmower. Ideally, it should be dry, well-ventilated, and protected from the elements.
Garage or Basement
If you’re lucky enough to have a garage or basement, these are excellent options for storing your lawnmower. The enclosed space provides shelter from rain, snow, and extreme temperatures.
- Garage: A garage offers the most convenience, with easy access and often ample space.
- Basement: Basements generally provide a more stable temperature, but you’ll need to ensure adequate ventilation to prevent moisture build-up.
Under a Covered Patio or Porch
A covered patio or porch provides some protection from the elements, but it’s not ideal for long-term storage. You’ll need to consider additional coverings to ensure your lawnmower remains dry.
Against a Wall or Fence
If you have a wall or fence that offers some protection from rain and wind, you can utilize it for storing your lawnmower. A tarp or cover will be crucial to shield it from the elements.
Preparing Your Lawn Mower for Storage
Before storing your lawnmower, take the time to clean and prepare it properly. This ensures its longevity and prevents problems when you’re ready to use it next season.
Cleaning and Maintenance
- Clean the exterior: Use a brush and soapy water to remove dirt, grass clippings, and debris from the mower’s exterior.
- Clean the underside: Pay special attention to the underside of the mower deck, where grass clippings tend to accumulate.
- Change the oil: If you haven’t changed the oil recently, now is the perfect time.
- Sharpen the blades: Sharp blades ensure clean cuts and efficient operation.
- Replace the air filter: A clean air filter prevents dust and debris from entering the engine.
- Check and clean the spark plug: A clean and properly gapped spark plug is essential for easy starts.
Adding Fuel Stabilizer
To prevent fuel from going bad during storage, add a fuel stabilizer to your mower’s tank. Fuel stabilizer prevents gum and varnish buildup, ensuring a smooth start next spring.
Disconnecting the Battery (If Applicable)
If your mower has a battery, disconnect it to prevent it from draining during storage. This also reduces the risk of corrosion.
Storing Your Lawn Mower Safely
Now that your lawnmower is clean and ready for storage, let’s explore different storage methods.
Tarps
A tarp offers a simple and affordable solution for covering your lawnmower.
- Pros: Cost-effective, provides basic protection from rain and dust.
- Cons: Not as durable as a cover, can be blown away by strong winds, and offers little protection from pests.
DIY Covers
You can create a custom cover for your lawnmower using materials like canvas, heavy-duty plastic, or even old blankets.
- Pros: More tailored to the shape of your mower, offers better protection than a tarp.
- Cons: Requires some effort to create, may not be as durable as commercially available covers.
Commercial Covers
For ultimate protection, consider investing in a commercial lawnmower cover. These covers are made from durable materials and offer excellent protection from the elements, pests, and dust.
- Pros: Durable, waterproof, and often feature added features like UV protection and ventilation.
- Cons: Can be more expensive than other options.
Repurposing Existing Structures
Get creative and repurpose existing structures in your yard to store your lawnmower.
- Old picnic table: Use an old picnic table to cover your lawnmower.
- Small wooden crates: Stack wooden crates to create a simple storage space.
- Tree stump: If you have a large tree stump, you can use it as a base for storing your lawnmower.
Additional Tips for Storage
Here are some additional tips for storing your lawnmower:
- Elevate the mower: Place your lawnmower on a block of wood or a pallet to prevent moisture buildup and make it easier to clean the underside.
- Store in a cool and dry place: Avoid storing your lawnmower in areas that get too hot or too cold.
- Check the storage regularly: Check your lawnmower periodically during storage, especially if you live in an area with fluctuating weather conditions.
Conclusion
Storing your lawnmower without a shed doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following these tips and choosing the right storage method, you can ensure your lawnmower is protected and ready for action when the next mowing season arrives. Remember, proper storage is an investment in the longevity of your equipment and will help you maintain a beautiful lawn for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What’s the best way to store my lawn mower if I don’t have a shed?
The best way to store your lawn mower without a shed is to find a dry, well-ventilated location. A garage or carport provides ample protection from the elements, but you can also consider using a large tarp or waterproof cover for additional security. If your only option is outdoor storage, be sure to elevate the mower off the ground on blocks or a stand to prevent moisture damage.
It’s crucial to keep your lawn mower covered, particularly if you’re storing it outside. A heavy-duty tarp or a specialized lawn mower cover will shield it from rain, dust, and debris. Remember to clean the mower thoroughly before covering it to prevent rust and mold growth.
2. Can I store my lawn mower in my basement?
While your basement can offer protection from the elements, it’s not ideal for long-term lawn mower storage. The lack of adequate ventilation in basements can lead to moisture buildup, which can damage the mower’s engine and components over time. However, if your basement is dry and well-ventilated, it can be a suitable option for temporary storage, especially during the off-season.
If you decide to store your lawn mower in your basement, ensure it’s clean and dry before storing it. Consider using a dehumidifier to keep the basement dry, and avoid storing the mower near any potential moisture sources like a furnace or water heater.
3. How do I protect my lawn mower from rust?
Rust is a major concern for any lawn mower owner, especially when stored outdoors. To prevent rust, clean your mower thoroughly after each use, paying attention to the metal parts. Apply a light coating of oil to the blades, moving parts, and any exposed metal surfaces. This will help repel moisture and prevent rust formation.
For long-term storage, consider investing in a rust-preventive spray or lubricant. These products create a protective barrier against corrosion and can be applied to all metal components of your lawn mower. Store your lawn mower in a dry and well-ventilated space to further minimize the risk of rust.
4. Should I drain the gas from my lawn mower before storing it?
Yes, draining the gas from your lawn mower is highly recommended before storing it for an extended period. Gasoline can degrade over time, gumming up the engine and causing damage. It’s best to empty the gas tank completely and run the engine until it stalls to use up any remaining fuel in the lines.
Alternatively, you can add a fuel stabilizer to the tank before storing the mower. Fuel stabilizers prevent gasoline from breaking down and keep your engine in good working order for the next season.
5. How often should I start my lawn mower during storage?
It’s a good idea to start your lawn mower at least once a month during storage, even if you don’t plan on using it. This helps prevent the engine from seizing up and ensures the battery stays charged. If your lawn mower has a manual start, a quick pull of the cord should suffice.
For mowers with electric starters, you can connect the battery to a charger. Running the mower for a few minutes will circulate oil and keep the fuel system in good working order.
6. What should I do with the lawn mower’s battery?
If your lawn mower has a battery, it’s essential to remove it before storage. Store the battery in a cool, dry place and charge it every few weeks. This will prevent the battery from losing its charge and ensure it’s ready for use next season.
You can also use a battery tender to maintain the battery’s charge while it’s in storage. Battery tenders deliver a small, trickle charge to keep the battery at its optimal level and prevent damage from over-discharging.
7. How can I prevent pests from nesting in my lawn mower?
Pests are attracted to the dark, enclosed spaces of a lawn mower, especially if it’s stored outdoors. To deter pests, keep your lawn mower clean and free of food scraps or other debris. Cover it with a tarp or a specialized lawn mower cover, creating a barrier against pests.
If your lawn mower has an air filter, consider replacing it before storing it. A clean air filter will prevent dust and debris from entering the engine and attracting pests. You can also place mothballs near the mower to repel pests, but be cautious as they can be toxic to children and pets.