Yes, you can keep your power rack outside. The problem with gym pieces of equipment is that they are heavy and occupy extra space indoors. Many gym owners consider the feasibility and benefits of storing their gym equipment outside, particularly power racks, which are among the largest and heaviest pieces of home gym equipment.
What Is A Power Rack?
Mostly, a power rack is also known as a power cage. It is a rectangular-shaped structure that features four vertical pillars and a set of adjustable pegs. It’s also known as a mechanical spotter, and it’s mostly utilized in free-weight barbell training.
This article will expound on how to keep your outdoor power rack from rusting, where you can store your outdoor power rack, and factors o consider before buying a power rack.
How To Keep Power Racks From Rusting?
The size and weight of the power racks mostly make them susceptible to rusting. While power racks contain a lot of holes on the vertical rails, which are fantastic for exercises, they also increase the risk of water damage.
Here is how to care for the power rack to avoid rusting:
Painting
For your rack not to rust, you can paint its exterior with durable paint to protect it against the elements that make it rust. Also, you should be able to choose a paint that you can also use to coat the interior parts of the power rack. Ensure that you tape the holes in the interior of the power rack.
When coating the power rack, ensure you have coated all parts for its protection.
Exterior
The stubborn exterior paint can be exposed to wear and tears. When you do exercises and notice the paint issues, you can spray and touch up the paint very quickly. If the scratch part is exposed to the environment’s moisture, it can rust out as quickly as possible.
Keep The Power Rack Dry
Remember to dry your power rack if it drizzles, and heavy rain pours down. If the rack is exposed to rain or a lot of mist during a storm, drill small holes in the bottom of the uprights to allow water to drain out. The biggest problem is rain or even dew at night.
The power rack might get wet outside, causing steel parts to rust. And UV rays may also damage the rubber, vinyl, and plastic if not given optimal care.
The most common thing you can do is arrange things such that only a small amount of items is lying on the ground/concrete where water can pool. This simple act keeps water off the ground and protects your power rack from rusting.
Oiling
Besides keeping the power rack purely dry, oiling your equipment is an alternative. It will add a protective layer and loosen the metal, preventing rust by draining moisture away and ensuring that your equipment runs smoothly.
You can apply oil once a month. This way, the lubrication should go on, and you should make the most out of it. Apply generously, too, and regularly.
Remove Rust
Rust will occur on metal equipment eventually no matter what you do. Here are some suggestions for removing the rust if it occurs:
1. Spray
You can spray it with something acidic. There are rust-removal products on the market, or you may make your own with coke or a 50-50 mixture of water and vinegar.
2. Scrub
After the rust has had time to soak, scrub it off with a brush. Because steel will scratch your equipment, choose a softer brush. You can also use sandpaper to perform the work for you.
3. Apply Paint Or Anti-corrosive
After you’ve removed the rust, apply an anti-corrosive spray or paint to the area. These can be found in most athletic stores.
Wash Your Power rack
One method to avoid t problems with your power rack is to make it a habit of washing down your power rack after each workout. Take your time, especially when using a power rack, because the gears and screws can rust. Also, diligently observe for any forthcoming rust that you can see.
Where Can I Store My Power Rack While I Am Outdoors?
Outside
Aside from the challenges mentioned above, power racks must struggle because they are on the grass. Because grass collects dew and becomes muddy, laying something down or constructing a simple floor is the easiest method to preserve your equipment.
It shouldn’t have to be extravagant; just something robust will suffice. If your power rack equipment is movable, you can consider folding it and storing it outside or taking it under an awning during a storm for extra protection.
The majority of the power racks are designed to withstand corrosion and a rust-resistant coating. When you’re done working out, set your weights carefully on the floor rather than dropping them, as this will wear down the coating.
Garage
The easiest method to maintain your power rack is to keep it in a covered patio or garage. But that doesn’t mean you can’t take steps to prevent rust.
While the roof protects it from the elements, humid air can still enter the chamber, causing sweat to accumulate on the equipment. However, apart from that downside, this is the best way to protect your equipment.
Factors To Consider When Storing Your Power Rack
Material
The material you will use will determine the space you will put it in. The materials are different as some are more prone to rust than others. You will decide on the best metal material suitable for your outdoor power rack.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can My Power Rack Rust If I Store It Outside?
If metal is left outside in the rain without protection, it will erode. The water will react with the metal, which will inevitably make your power rack deteriorate with time.
You will always not feel good about what is happening as it will be a loss to your gym equipment. You can go through the article to decide if you want to leave your power rack outdoors and follow the rusting preventions methods.
