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Safe Storage Solutions for Your Portable Pitching Mound
Welcome to the our guide for effectively storing your portable pitching mound. Whether you're a coach, a parent, or a player, the longevity and condition of your pitching mound hinges significantly on how you store it when not in use. A portable pitching mound is a substantial investment for any baseball program, and its care shouldn't end with the final pitch.
What You Will Learn
In this guide, we delve into the nuances of selecting the ideal storage location, preparing your mound for storage, and adopting the best techniques to ensure it stays in peak condition, ready for the next training session or season. From indoor storage solutions to long-term maintenance, we've got you covered on keeping your pitching mound safe, secure, and in top form.
Choosing the Right Storage Location
The perfect spot for storing a portable pitching mound is a dry, cool area shielded from direct sunlight. For instance, a climate-controlled garage or a shaded storage room can be ideal. Direct sunlight will degrade the turf and materials over time, while excessive moisture can lead to mold or mildew, especially in foam or turf materials.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Storage
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Indoor Storage:
- Pros: Controlled environment, less exposure to elements, reduced risk of theft or vandalism.
- Cons: Requires sufficient indoor space, which might not be available.
- Example: Storing in a utility shed or garage ensures protection from weather while keeping the mound easily accessible.
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Outdoor Storage:
- Pros: Convenient when indoor space is limited.
- Cons: Increased exposure to weather, potential security risks.
- Example: If outdoor storage is the only option, choosing a shaded, covered area like under a deck can provide some protection from the elements. We also recommend placing a tarp cover over mound to limit exposure to the elements.
Preparing the Mound for Storage
When storing the mound for long periods of time, it is important to prepare the mound in a way that does not damage the mound. Let's take a look at a few of the ways you can properly prepare your mound for storage.
- Cleaning: Remove dirt and debris. For example, use a broom or blower for loose dirt and a damp cloth for stains.
- Dismantling (If Applicable): Carefully disassemble any removable parts. For instance, remove any detachable turf sections or braces.
- Surface Protection: Cover the mound surface with a tarp or cloth to protect against scratches during storage.
Protection Tips:
- Use soft cloths or padding to protect the mound's edges and surface.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the mound material.
Best Practice Storage Techniques
Best Practices:
- Proper Positioning: Store the mound in a horizontal position to maintain its shape. Avoid leaning it against walls which can cause warping.
- Support: For larger mounds, use blocks or stands to support the weight evenly and prevent bending.
Using Covers and Storage Bags:
- Protect your mound from dust and moisture with suitable covers. For instance, waterproof canvas covers or specially designed mound bags work well.
Key Takeaways
- Store the mound out of sunlight, away from UV rays to ensure a long lifespan
- Storing it indoors is the best case scenario
- If you must store it outside, cover it with a tarp and make sure if doesn't come into direct contact with UV rays and water
- It is best to keep the mound horizontal rather than vertical to prevent it from warping
- Using something like cinder blocks will help keep the mound away from rain water
Thank you for reading, and we hope this article was helpful. For more information, check out out portable pitching mound buying guide and our pitching mound repair guide here.
