At 6,700 feet elevation, Steamboat's climate is tough on stored belongings. Here's how to decide what can survive in a garage versus what needs climate control.
What Survives Garage Storage
- Metal tools and equipment
- Plastic bins (not the contents — the bins themselves)
- Outdoor furniture
- Winter sports equipment
- Camping gear
What Needs Climate Control
- Wooden furniture (expansion/contraction cracks wood)
- Electronics (condensation damages circuits)
- Photographs and documents
- Leather goods
- Musical instruments
- Wine collections
- Art and antiques
The Humidity Factor
Routt County averages 60% humidity in summer and drops to 30% in winter. This 30-point swing wreaks havoc on sensitive materials. Climate-controlled storage maintains 50% humidity year-round.




