Question about humidity levels in a storage unit

I found out last week that cars need to be kept between 40-50% humidity to stop rust, according to a Classic Motors magazine article. I checked my storage unit and it was reading 68%! Has anyone else dealt with high humidity in their garage or rented space?

2 comments

2 Comments

jade_butler1mo ago

Jumped right into checking my own garage after reading this and found it at 72%. It's one of those things we just don't THINK about until it's too late. Same with basements and attics - people store stuff and never check the air. My buddy lost a whole set of vintage tools to rust because he threw them in a damp shed and forgot about them for two years. This humidity problem is EVERYWHERE if you look for it, not just cars.

lucas_grant831mo ago

72% is not that extreme dude. Ive had my garage hit 85% during summer and my tools are fine after years. You gotta remember that humidity readings fluctuate a ton based on time of day and weather. Your buddy's tools probably rusted because of a leak or direct water contact, not just ambient air. I keep a dehumidifier in my basement that only kicks on when it gets above 70% and that thing barely runs. Honestly most garages and sheds are built to breathe a little. If you seal everything up tight to control humidity youll just trap other problems like mold.