Outdoor storage boxes are great for keeping cushions, gardening supplies, toys, pool items, blankets and other household items neat. However, when you're considering an outdoor storage box to leave outside all year long one big question is presented: Do outdoor storage boxes have waterproofing?
While some outdoor storage boxes are waterproof or even very waterproof, not all storage boxes are waterproof. The extent of protection varies depending on the material, construction, design of the lid, seals, drainage, and the installation and maintenance of the box.
Familiarizing yourself with these helps homeowners select an outdoor storage box that keeps their belongings safe from rain, moisture, humidity and the weather.
What Does Waterproof Mean for an Outdoor Storage Box?
Many people use the term waterproof and water-resistant interchangeably but they aren't synonymous.
Outdoor storage boxes are made to be waterproof and to keep water out in “normal” outdoor use. A water-resistant box will limit the entry of water, but will not completely prevent water infiltration when rainfall or storms are heavy or if left exposed to moisture for long periods.
In most residential uses, a good outdoor storage box should be capable of being very protective against:
- Rain and splashing water
- Morning dew and humidity
- Snow and melting ice
- Outdoor moisture
- Occasional heavy weather
But, just because a storage box is advertised for outdoor use doesn't necessarily make it waterproof.
Which Materials Make Outdoor Storage Boxes Waterproof?
Weather resistance of a storage box is largely dependent on the materials used in its construction.
Resin and Plastic Storage Boxes
Resin and plastic storage boxes are a favorite option for outdoor storage, as they have a natural water resistance. These materials are not easily taken up by water and will not rot due to the rains as will untreated wood.
When properly designed, and assembled with quality resin storage boxes, a lid can be used to keep resin in a secure container. They are also easy to maintain and clean up.
If not designed properly, gaps around the lid, hinges or the ventilation openings can allow water to enter the container.
Metal Storage Boxes
Galvanized or coated steel metal storage boxes are good for outdoor use. But the metal doesn't necessarily make a storage box water proof.
There is significance in coating, seams, lid design and drainage design. Exposed metal can eventually rust if it is not protected by coatings.
Wooden Storage Boxes
Wood can be used in the outdoors and it's easier to maintain than other materials. Since wood is hygroscopic, it tends to absorb moisture, so out of door wooden storage containers will probably require weatherproofing, sealants and appropriate construction.
A wooden box might keep its contents dry from the rain, but it might not be as moisture resistant as a good resin storage box.
How Do Outdoor Storage Boxes Keep Water Out?
Waterproofing is more than just the material. Construction of the storage box is also crucial.
1. Overlapping Lids
If the lid is designed correctly, it can be extended beyond the limits of the box. This will help to prevent rain falling straight on the opening, rather than into the storage compartment.
2. Raised Edges
For some outdoor storage boxes, the edges around the opening are raised. These edges can help retain water from passing directly through the box, when it rains on the lid.
3. Tight-Fitting Lids
A tight-fitting lid over the storage container can greatly minimize the amount of water that can penetrate. Others come with specially designed channels or seals for enhanced protection.
4. Weather-Resistant Seals
Seals around openings and joints may be made of rubber or other weather resistant seals. These seals are especially effective to protect stored objects from wind-driven rain.
5. Sloped Tops
The sloped lid drains the rain water away from the top of the container. This can help decrease standing water around possible entry points.
Are Outdoor Storage Boxes Waterproof in Heavy Rain?
A good outdoor storage box can offer good protection during normal rainfalls, however, the protection offered varies from product to product.
During heavy rain with strong wind, water can be pushed through small gaps that may not have an impact during light rain. The box can also be filled with water if it is placed at a place where rainwater is collected.
To protect best, store the box on a firm, raised platform—avoid low lying storage locations.
When in areas that experience storms regularly, consider an outdoor storage box that is built to withstand storms and moisture.
Can Outdoor Storage Boxes Keep Water Completely Out?
A top-notch outdoor storage box is better than nothing, but it is not a waterproof container.
If you store, for instance:
- Important documents
- Electronics
- Expensive tools
- Sensitive fabrics
- Items vulnerable to humidity
You may want to put them in other waterproof containers or plastic bags.
This provides several levels of security. Outdoor storage box offers weather protection while inner waterproof container offers weather resistance and moisture protection.
Does Condensation Affect Outdoor Storage Boxes?
Precipitation is not the only way to get moisture.
An outdoor storage box may have condensation in the storage box due to warm and humid air touching the cooler surface. It can occur when the temperature changes from season to season or when the temperature drops at night.
Humidity can still collect within the box when it is not raining.
Consider: For items that need moisture, such as:
- Using moisture-absorbing products
- Avoiding storage of wet items
- Allowing items to dry before storage
- Choosing a box with controlled ventilation
- Periodically opening the box in dry weather
Completely airtight designs may not be the best solution for all kinds of storage and ventilation can be particularly significant.
What Should You Store in a Waterproof Outdoor Storage Box?
Outdoor storage boxes are ideal for goods that must be stored outdoors but are not climate-sensitive.
Common examples include:
- Patio cushions
- Outdoor furniture covers
- Pool toys
- Gardening equipment
- Children's outdoor toys
- Sports equipment
- Gardening supplies
- Blankets and outdoor textiles
- Small hand tools
Make sure cushions and fabric products are dry before storing. Mildew and odors are possible if wet stuff is stored in a closed storage box.
How to Choose a Waterproof Outdoor Storage Box
Don't look at “waterproof” as the only criteria when choosing outdoor storage boxes. View overall structure.
Check the Material
Depending on the design and application, resin, polypropylene, polyethylene, treated wood or coated metal can be suitable.
Examine the Lid
Seek a lid that hangs over and fits securely, leaving a minimum amount of gaps exposed.
Look for Weather-Resistant Construction
Hinges, hardware, reinforced corners and UV-resistant materials can enhance the durability of the product for outdoor use over time.
Consider Drainage
Proper box drainage can reduce the likelihood of water accumulating under and around the box.
Check the Weight Capacity
If the storage box will also be used as a bench, check the load rating. An object constructed for storing light objects does not necessarily have the ability to safely carry humans.
Consider UV Resistance
Outside storage boxes are not just subjected to rain, but also the sun. Use UV resistant materials to minimize fading, brittleness and degradation over time.
How Can You Make an Outdoor Storage Box More Waterproof?
Many everyday solutions can help make the existing water resistant storage box more water resistant if it is not water resistant.
Place the box on a flat, raised area, away from rainwater standing on the ground. Periodically inspect lid and hinges for damage. Use parts that are compatible with the manufacturer's recommendation to use a specific seal or replacement part.
Also, can fit smaller items inside waterproof bags or containers for extra protection.
Don't make unnecessary holes in the box as changes might cause more water entry points.
Final Thoughts
So, are storage boxes outdoors waterproof? Many are made so that they are waterproof and can keep items stored outside safe from the rain and moisture. But the waterproofing is related to the material, lid design, seals, construction quality, drainage and installation conditions.
A resin or plastic storage box that is designed properly can be used for general outdoor storage needs that would provide a combination of weather resistant, durable, low maintenance and easy to clean attributes.
When at the maximum moisture protection level, select a model that has a good overlap lid, water-tight body and good drainage as well as the right sealing. An inner waterproof container is another added convenience for extra-sensitive items.
The ideal outdoor storage box will ultimately depend on your climate, storage requirements, and the amount of weather protection you require for the items you are storing.
