American Self Storage Blog

Why Boat Storage in Norman, OK Is Better Than Parking at Home

Owning a boat in Norman means easy access to outdoor fun, especially with popular spots like Lake Thunderbird nearby. However, when your boat is not in use, deciding where to keep it is an important part of ownership. While some owners choose to park their boat at home, professional boat storage in Norman, OK often provides far greater benefits in terms of protection, convenience, and peace of mind. Storing your boat at a dedicated storage facility helps preserve its condition, keeps your property organized, and makes boating easier whenever you are ready to head back on the water. Home Parking Limitations vs. Professional Boat Storage Parking a boat at home may seem like the simplest option, but it often creates challenges. Driveways and yards are not designed to hold large trailers for long periods, and many neighborhoods have restrictions on where boats can be parked. Even when allowed, a boat can take up valuable space and limit everyday parking. Boat storage in Norman, OK eliminates these concerns by offering designated areas built specifically for boats. This keeps your property clear while ensuring your boat is stored in a suitable, organized environment. Protection From Oklahoma Weather Conditions Oklahoma weather can be tough on boats. Strong sun, sudden storms, heavy rain, and high winds can cause wear and tear over time. Boats left at home are often exposed to these conditions without adequate protection, leading to faded finishes, cracked seats, and cover damage. Using professional boat storage reduces exposure to harsh weather. A storage facility offers a more controlled environment that helps protect your boat during both the hot summer months and stormy seasons, extending its lifespan and reducing maintenance needs. Better Security and Reduced Risk Security is another major reason why many owners choose boat storage over home parking. Boats stored at home are often visible from the street, making them more vulnerable to theft or vandalism. Boat storage in Norman, OK provides added security through controlled access, fencing, lighting, and monitoring. Knowing your boat is stored in a secure location ...

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December 29th, 2025

How to Protect Your RV During Off-Season | Norman OK Storage

Owning an RV provides freedom and comfort for travel, but proper care during the off-season is essential to keep it in excellent condition. For RV owners in Norman, Oklahoma, protecting your vehicle from weather exposure, theft, and long-term damage is a priority. Whether you are searching for RV storage, storage units near me, or a reliable self storage facility, American Self Storage #05 offers secure and convenient solutions designed to meet local storage needs. Oklahoma’s climate can be challenging for recreational vehicles. Hot summers, heavy rainfall, strong winds, and colder winter nights can all impact an RV left outdoors for extended periods. Prolonged sun exposure may cause fading and cracking of seals, while moisture can lead to mold, mildew, and corrosion. Choosing a professional storage facility during the off-season helps minimize these risks and ensures your RV remains ready for your next adventure. Prepare Your RV Before Storage Preparing your RV before placing it into storage is a critical step in off-season protection. Begin by thoroughly cleaning both the interior and exterior. Removing food residue, dirt, and moisture helps prevent pests, odors, and mold buildup. Washing the exterior also gives you the opportunity to inspect the roof, seams, and seals for any cracks or damage that could allow water intrusion. Plumbing maintenance is especially important. Drain all fresh water tanks, gray and black tanks, and water lines to prevent freezing or buildup. Adding RV antifreeze to plumbing lines offers extra protection during colder months. Disconnecting the battery or using a battery maintainer helps preserve battery life while the RV is not in use. Checking tire pressure and covering tires reduces the risk of flat spots and weather-related damage. Securing windows, vents, and doors ensures your RV remains sealed from dust, moisture, and pests throughout the storage period. Choosing the Right RV Storage Option Selecting the right RV storage solution depends on the size of your vehicle, storage duration, and level of protection needed. American Self Storage #05 offers outdoor vehicle storage and RV storage spaces that are ...

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December 17th, 2025

Can I Park My RV at Home in Norman?

There’s nothing quite like the freedom of owning an RV in Cleveland County. You have the flexibility to head out to Lake Thunderbird, tailgate like a champion at the Oklahoma Memorial Stadium for a Sooners game, or plan a grand cross-country adventure. But every adventure has its bookends, and for RV owners, that means coming home. You pull into your Norman driveway, and the big question looms: Now what? Where does this massive, wonderful investment live when it’s not on the road? More specifically, can it live at your home?It’s a question thousands of Norman residents face. We all love our neighborhoods, but a 30-foot motorhome can be a... conspicuous addition to a driveway. Before you unhitch, let's dive into the rules, the practicalities, and the best solutions for parking your RV right here in Norman. The Big Question: What Do Norman's City Ordinances Say? The short answer is: Yes, but... Like most cities, Norman has rules in place to keep neighborhoods safe, clear, and aesthetically pleasing. While some cities have complex rules about parking in front of the "building line" or time limits, Norman's primary concern, according to its Code of Ordinances, is what your RV is parked on. The city code states: "In a residential district, no part of a lot or tract shall be used as a parking space for a motor vehicle, boat, trailer, or other vehicle... except upon an approved pavement surface." This is the key. You can't just pull your RV onto the front lawn or a patch of dirt in the side yard. It must be on a designated, paved driveway or parking slab. This rule makes a lot of sense, especially given our humid subtropical climate. With an average of 38 inches of precipitation annually, mostly dumped on us in May and June, parking a multi-ton vehicle on a soft, rain-soaked lawn is a recipe for a muddy disaster and a violation notice. Of course, the city ordinance is just the first hurdle. The second, and often stricter, challenge? ...

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October 28th, 2025

How Self-Storage Helps Small Businesses Thrive in Norman, OK

Norman, Oklahoma, is a city teeming with entrepreneurial spirit. From the bustling Historic Campus Corner District to the innovative minds at the National Weather Center, it’s a place where ideas take root and businesses grow. But as any small business owner in Cleveland County knows, growth often comes with a challenge: space. Whether you’re a local artisan selling your wares at the Firehouse Art Center, an e-commerce entrepreneur running your business from home, or a contractor with a growing collection of equipment, finding the room to expand can be a major hurdle. This is where a local resource, like American Self Storage at 2111 East Alameda St, can be a game-changer, helping your small business not just survive, but thrive. The Space You Need, When You Need It Imagine this: your online boutique is taking off, and your living room is overflowing with inventory. Or perhaps you're a landscaper whose garage is packed to the gills with tools, leaving no room for your own vehicle. This is a common growing pain for many small businesses. A self-storage unit offers a flexible and affordable solution. Instead of being locked into a long-term lease for a commercial warehouse you might not be able to fill, a facility like American Self Storage provides a variety of unit sizes, from a compact 4'x4' for documents and supplies to a spacious 10'x30' that can accommodate an entire business's inventory. With their current special of $99 for the first three months on their 10'x20', 10'x25', and 10'x30' units, it’s an incredibly cost-effective way to manage your expansion. More Than Just Four Walls and a Door Modern self-storage facilities offer a suite of features designed to make life easier for business owners. At American Self Storage, amenities like drive-up access, online bill pay, and the availability of dollies and handcarts streamline the process of moving and managing your inventory. The on-site availability of boxes and moving supplies means you'll never be caught unprepared. And for those who need it, the convenience ...

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September 4th, 2025

How to Keep Your RV Critter-Free in Storage at American Self Storage in Norman, OK

Storing your RV for the season in Norman, OK? There’s nothing worse than opening your RV after months in storage to find unwanted guests—rodents, insects, and critters that have made themselves at home. At American Self Storage on Alameda Street, we know how valuable your RV is, and how frustrating pest problems can be. Fortunately, with a few smart strategies—and the right storage facility—you can keep your RV critter-free and road-ready all year long. Whether you're parking your rig after a summer road trip through the Arbuckle Mountains or prepping for an off-season break, this guide will walk you through the best practices to protect your RV from pests while it’s stored safely here in Norman, OK. Why Critters Target Stored RVs RVs are warm, dry, and often packed with appealing smells from leftover food, fabrics, and moisture. Small entry points—like vents, pipes, or slide-out seals—make it easy for critters to sneak in. In Oklahoma’s mild winters, pests like mice, spiders, and ants are especially active, making it even more important to take proactive steps when using long-term RV storage. Fortunately, American Self Storage on Alameda offers secure, gated storage options that start with a strong foundation—but pest protection also requires your attention before and during storage. 1. Deep Clean Before Storing Start by giving your RV a thorough interior and exterior cleaning. Any crumbs, grease, or food residue left behind can act like a neon sign for pests. Wipe down all surfaces, vacuum carpets and upholstery, and don’t forget the nooks and crannies—especially behind appliances and under cushions. Make sure to remove all food, including pantry staples, canned goods, pet food, and snacks. Even sealed food items can attract rodents and insects. Local RV owners from neighborhoods like Hall Park and Brookhaven often stop by our facility after a weekend trip to Lake Thunderbird, and cleaning is always their first step before parking for longer stays. 2. Seal Entry Points Your RV has plenty of places where critters can sneak in—gaps around water lines, electrical cords, vent covers, slide-outs, ...

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July 28th, 2025