Creative Patio Cushion Storage - need ideas.

[SHAKEnBLAKE]

I've been shopping around for a big ugly plastic bin to store my patio cushions, but nothing seems large enough (or affordable). And I don't have a ton of patio space to put the thing.

Here's my initial idea: to build some sort of "drawer" behind the lattice covering some dead space under the house. It will pull out into the driveway for easy access.

Attached are pics of the lattice. I plan to replace that with some faux-stone panels (what's this stuff called?) Skirting?, which will presumably be the face of the "drawer." Ideally, I'd be able to put a lock on this, in case I decide to store anything more valuable there down the line (think bikes or garden tools)

I'm looking for suggestions on how/what to build. Should it be on heavy duty drawer sliders (like a truck bed system)? Sounds expensive, and labor intensive. Should it be on small pneumatic tires, like wagon or wheelbarrow tires? Sounds cheaper, but more likely to encounter issues rolling over any uneven ground. Should it be 100% enclosed to keep out bugs/critters, or could it just be an open-top box? What materials would you use? Other ideas? I'll try to post progress here in case anyone gets inspired.

 

[jkeyser14]

Looks like a dark/damp area with very little airflow that would promote mildew. I wouldn't do it personally.

 

[bdbecker]

The simpler the better for a situation like this. A basic platform/tray with a cheap set of fixed wheels and some large totes are how I would do it. Stick to larger diameter solid wheels to make rolling in and out easier, and so you don't have to deal with flats.

I wouldn't mess around with trying to make the skirting be the drawer face - too many issues with trying to get it to align correctly. Instead, just frame out a skirting panel and turn it into a door.

One more thought - replacing all the lattice with solid faux stone panels will restrict air flow which could lead to rot. Its probably a good idea to maintain some sort of airflow for that space, either through vents or some other means.

 

[SHAKEnBLAKE]

Looks like a dark/damp area with very little airflow that would promote mildew. I wouldn't do it personally.

Good consideration. That area is actually pretty dry. Even during the wettest times of the year, the soil under there stays bone dry. No rain falls behind that Rhododendron.

I know they make these panels and put them around mobile homes, decks, etc, so I'm wondering if there's a way to control moisture. I figured there would still be a small gap around the bottom to allow air flow. I'll have to look into it.

The simpler the better for a situation like this. A basic platform/tray with a cheap set of fixed wheels and some large totes are how I would do it. Stick to larger diameter solid wheels to make rolling in and out easier, and so you don't have to deal with flats.

I wouldn't mess around with trying to make the skirting be the drawer face - too many issues with trying to get it to align correctly. Instead, just frame out a skirting panel and turn it into a door.

You're right. After a bit of brainstorming, I'd agree: separate door and "cart"

 

[SHAKEnBLAKE]

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01HDPY7RG/?tag=atomicindus08-20


Keter Westwood. I think mine are 202 gallon. Flat tops grooved to keep things from rolling off, and an almost Tool less build out.

I have four of these mounted on hf furniture dollies.
I think they're five feet long and about 32inches deep x 54.
Two of their big dollies fit perfectly underneath.
Excellent work bench height, it does double duty.

Yours sounds big enough for my needs, but even the 150gal you linked would be too small. My cushions are about 24x24", which don't seem to fit in most of the bins I've found.

Also, at close to $300, and you've got 4 of them? That's quite an investment. Glad I'll only need one if I go this route!