Storing garden tools outside is a common practice for many homeowners. The key considerations around outdoor storage include weather resistance, security, and organization. With the right preparations, outdoor garden tool storage can be a convenient and practical option.
Quick Answers
Here are quick answers to some common questions about outdoor garden tool storage:
- Is it okay to leave garden tools outside? Generally yes, as long as you take steps to protect them from weather damage and theft.
- Should metal garden tools be stored outside? Metal tools like shovels and rakes can usually be left outside year-round if properly maintained.
- Can power tools be stored outside? Most power tools, especially those with electric motors, should be stored indoors or in weatherproof enclosures.
- How do I protect garden tools outside? Use weather-resistant covers, coat metal surfaces with prevention sprays, store tools in a locked shed or garage.
Factors to Consider for Outdoor Storage
When deciding whether to store garden tools outdoors, there are several important factors to take into account:
- Weather – Exposure to sun, rain, wind, snow, etc can damage tools. Metals can corrode and wood handles split over time.
- Security – Outdoor storage makes tools vulnerable to theft. Locked sheds or garages reduce this risk.
- Organization – Tools stored loosely on the ground can be damaged and hard to find. Racks, bins and hangars keep things neat.
- Convenience – Storing tools outdoors close to the garden makes them readily accessible for use and transport.
Protecting Metal Garden Tools
Many common gardening tools like shovels, rakes, hoes and pruners are made partly or entirely of metal. While durable, metal tools still require some care to withstand long-term outdoor storage without deteriorating:
- Clean off dirt and debris to prevent rust
- Coat with a rust prevention spray
- Polish metal surfaces with oil or wax
- Store under a protective cover or tarp
- Hang tools to keep them off the ground
- Consider purchasing tools with stainless steel or aluminum construction
A simple garden shed or shelving unit with a waterproof cover is usually sufficient protection for metal tools. For colder climates, storing metal tools in an unheated garage over winter is recommended.
Protecting Wooden Handles
Wooden handles on tools like shovels, rakes and hoes also require some basic protections for outdoor storage:
- Clean and sand handles to remove splinters
- Seal with waterproof varnish or tool handle protectant
- Store off the ground on a shelf or rack
- Keep handles out of standing water
- Avoid exposing handles to extreme temperature and humidity changes
Re-sealing wooden handles annually will maintain water resistance. Check regularly for cracks or splintering, and replace damaged handles as needed.
Storing Power Tools Outside
Power tools like lawnmowers, trimmers, blowers and chainsaws generally require more care than manual yard tools:
- Gas-powered equipment should have fuel drained before storing for long periods
- Electric-powered tools should be kept in weatherproof enclosures
- Cordless battery packs should be removed and stored in optimal conditions
- Lubricate motors, blades and other moving parts
- Clean air vents and filters so equipment operates safely
- Keep instruction manuals accessible for future reference
A locked garage or garden shed with some climate control and ventilation is best for power tools. Outdoor rubber bins or deck boxes can also work if properly sealed against moisture. Avoid leaving power tools exposed to the elements.
Organizing Outdoor Garden Tool Storage
Keeping your garden tools neatly organized outdoors has several advantages:
- Protects tool surfaces from damage
- Avoids misplacing or losing tools
- Makes it faster and easier to find the right tool
- Extends lifespan by reducing wear and tear
- Creates an efficient workflow when gardening
Some options for organizing outdoor garden tool storage include:
- Tool racks for hanging shovels, rakes, hoes on a wall or fence
- Shelving units and small sheds for holding tools off the ground
- Bins, buckets or canvas tool bags for grouping smaller items
- Custom outlines painted on walls to clearly mark tool locations
- A large cabinet or chest with multiple drawers for specialized storage
Take an inventory of your tools and group similar items together for the most efficient setup. Leave enough space for future purchases and seasonal access needs.
Securing Outdoor Garden Tools
One downside of outdoor storage is the increased risk of theft. Here are some tips to better secure your garden tools:
- Store tools in a locked garage or shed whenever possible
- Install motion sensor security lights around the storage area
- Use metal cord or chain to physically secure larger tools
- Paint or engrave tools with identifying information
- Record serial numbers and take photos for insurance purposes
- Only leave out tools when actively gardening and put away after use
Creating multiple layers of security will deter opportunistic theft. Also consider concealing storage areas like sheds from public view with fencing or plantings.
Ideal Outdoor Storage Locations
Choosing the right spot on your property for outdoor garden tool storage contributes to convenience and security:
- Near the garden for easy access when working
- Under an overhang or awning to stay dry
- Opposite from prevailing winds and weather
- Next to a hose bib for cleaning tools
- In a central area visible from the house
- Behind locked fencing or in a garage for security
- Elevated off the ground away from moisture
Consider your property layout, garden location, weather patterns and security needs when deciding on the optimal outdoor storage spot. Prioritize keeping tools convenient but protected.
Maintenance for Outdoor Storage
To keep your garden tools in good condition for outdoor storage, build regular maintenance into your routine:
- Inspect tools frequently for damage or rust
- Check covers and enclosures for leaks or gaps
- Reapply protective coatings on metal surfaces
- Tighten or replace loose screws, bolts, handles
- Drain or service power equipment before winter
- Sharpen blades and remove debris gunked on tools
- Organize the storage space for optimal access
Doing preventative maintenance and spot repairs quickly will extend the usable life of your tools. Design your outdoor storage to make regular inspections simple.
Seasonal Considerations
Your outdoor garden tool storage setup should adapt to significant seasonal changes in weather:
- Spring – Inspect tools for any damage after winter. Sharpen blades and replace broken handles. Clean grime off of surfaces.
- Summer – No special steps needed. Maintain tools and storage as usual.
- Fall – Clean tools thoroughly before winter and coat metal surfaces. Store delicate tools indoors.
- Winter – Move power tools and anything fragile indoors. Make sure remaining tools are protected from snow.
In cold climates, late fall is an important transition period to safeguard tools for the winter. Remember tools left out may get buried in snow drifts.
Alternative Outdoor Storage Solutions
For homeowners who don’t have space for a full garden shed, there are alternative storage solutions to protect outdoor tools:
- Deck boxes – Sealable plastic bins safe for outdoor use
- Freestanding shelving – Sturdy metal units that can be covered
- Weatherproof cabinets – Sealable metal or plastic tool lockers
- Tool chests on wheels – Lockable chests that can be moved around
- Wall-mounted panels – Vertical tool boards hung on fences or walls
- Waterproof tool bags – Heavy duty bags to keep essentials together
Even a few hooks mounted under an eave or small shelving area on a porch can help organize essential tools off the ground. Get creative with the space available.
When to Store Tools Indoors Instead
While many garden tools are fine being stored outdoors year-round, some specific situations call for bringing them into the garage or a storage room inside:
- Power tools not designed for outdoor use
- Rare antique or specialized tools
- Electric tools with battery packs
- Cheap or delicate tools prone to breaking
- Areas with extreme weather swings or frequent severe storms
- Properties in very isolated or insecure locations
- Highly valuable tools with risk of theft
Use your best judgment on which tools absolutely need the protection of indoor storage versus those that are rugged enough for the outdoors.
Signs Tools Need to be Moved Indoors
Watch for these signs that your tools may be suffering from outdoor storage:
- Rust spots forming on metal surfaces
- Wood handles feeling brittle or splintering
- Plastic/rubber cracking or becoming gummy
- Blades and bits dulling prematurely
- Mechanical issues with power tools
- Tools not staying organized
If tools seem to be rapidly deteriorating despite your best efforts, it’s probably time to re-evaluate whether some need indoor storage for maximum longevity.
Tips for Indoor Tool Storage
To make the most of indoor garden tool storage:
- Use wall-mounted panels, shelves or racks near the garage or back door for easy access
- Store in a basement, shed or closet/room specifically dedicated for tools
- Group similar tools together on shelves or in labeled bins
- Keep necessary accessories like oil, sharpening files, wrenches etc. nearby
- Return tools to storage immediately after use to prevent misplacing
- Consider installing hooks, pegs and other organizers to maximize wall and ceiling space
The principles for organized outdoor storage also apply indoors. The key is keeping tools visible and within reach so they actually get used and maintained.
Conclusion
Outdoor storage can be an ideal solution for garden tools conveniently close to where they’ll be used. With some basic precautions like weather protection, security measures, organization systems and routine maintenance, most non-powered hand tools can be safely and effectively stored outside year-round. Consider factors like your specific climate, storage facilities, tool types and usage frequency when deciding what should stay outdoors versus in a protected interior space. Finding the right balance will save you time while keeping your gardening equipment in great shape.