How to Store and Maintain Your Fiberglass Props Off-Season: A Practical Guide for Longevity
- Chelsea Gillespie
- Jun 17
- 3 min read
Protect your fiberglass props year-round with these expert storage and maintenance tips to extend lifespan and prevent wear.
Fiberglass props are a showstopper - strong, lightweight, and capable of delivering jaw-dropping visual impact in any commercial display. But what happens when the season ends and it's time to pack things away? Proper off-season storage and maintenance aren’t just nice-to-haves - they’re essential if you want your fiberglass pieces to last for years and look just as good as the day they arrived.
In this guide, we’ll break down the essential steps to preserve, maintain, and store your fiberglass props correctly. Whether you're decking the halls, staging a seasonal retail event, or creating an immersive experience, this advice will help you protect your investment.
Why Fiberglass Props Need Special Care
Fiberglass is incredibly durable, but like all materials, it's vulnerable to wear if not cared for correctly. Left in poor conditions - especially with moisture, temperature swings, or physical pressure - fiberglass can degrade or weaken over time. That means cracks, fading, or even structural damage. The good news? A little off-season TLC goes a long way.
How Do You Preserve Fiberglass?
Preserving fiberglass props begins with a good clean and a protective plan. Here’s how:
Clean Before Storing
Wipe down all surfaces with a mild soap and water solution. Remove dirt, dust, and any residues (especially adhesives or paint splatters). Rinse gently and allow to dry thoroughly before moving on.
Inspect for Damage
Check for cracks, chips, or flaking paint. These may seem minor, but even small imperfections can worsen over time. Make note of any needed repairs before storage.
Apply a Protective Wax or Sealant
Use a marine-grade fiberglass wax or clear protective coating to guard against dust and UV degradation, especially if your props were used outdoors.
How Do You Maintain Fiberglass?
Maintenance isn’t just for the off-season - it’s an ongoing commitment.
Here’s what to keep in mind:
Regular Dusting & Wiping During Use
Keep props looking fresh by using a soft microfiber cloth during high-traffic periods.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Stay away from strong cleaners or abrasive tools. These can strip protective coatings or even cause discoloration.
Touch-Up Paint as Needed
Keep touch-up paint (matched to your prop) on hand to fix scuffs or minor damage. Ask us at Decor and Props if you're not sure what to use.
How Do You Store Fiberglass?
Proper storage is your first line of defense in extending the life of fiberglass props. Here’s your checklist:
Climate-Controlled Environment
Store in a cool, dry area. Avoid garages or outdoor sheds where temperatures and humidity fluctuate wildly. Moisture and extreme heat/cold can weaken fiberglass resin.
Wrap and Protect
Use soft moving blankets or bubble wrap to cushion your props. Avoid plastic wrap directly on the surface - this can trap moisture and cause damage.
Elevate Off the Floor
Use pallets or shelves to keep props off cold concrete or damp surfaces. It helps prevent water absorption and accidental floor-level impacts.
Avoid Stacking
Don’t stack fiberglass props unless they’re specifically designed for it. Pressure points can cause warping or cracking over time.
Label and Inventory
Store with labels and photos to make unpacking next season easier - and to avoid unnecessary shuffling or movement during storage.
Does Fiberglass Degrade Over Time?
In short - yes, but very slowly and usually only if neglected. UV rays, excessive moisture, and physical stress are the biggest culprits. But with care and the right storage approach, fiberglass props can last decades.
How Long Will Fiberglass Last?
With proper maintenance and off-season care, fiberglass props can last anywhere from 20 to 50 years. That makes them a smart investment - especially when you take time to look after them between uses.
What Weakens Fiberglass?
To wrap it up, here are the key factors that can weaken your fiberglass props:
UV Exposure: Causes fading, brittleness, and surface breakdown
Moisture: Leads to mold, delamination, or swelling of interior materials
Extreme Temperatures: Expansion and contraction can crack the resin
Improper Storage: Pressure points, sharp edges, or poor stacking can cause structural damage
Chemical Cleaners: Can wear down protective coatings or paint finishes.
Final Thoughts
Storing your fiberglass props with care isn’t just good practice - it’s essential if you want them to stand the test of time and deliver value season after season. At Decor and Props, we craft each fiberglass prop to meet commercial-grade standards - but even the toughest materials need a little love.
Take the time now to clean, inspect, and store your props properly. Your future self (and your budget) will thank you.
Need help with prop repair or looking for new additions? Reach out to us at Decor and Props - we’re here to bring your vision to life, one prop at a time.
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Email: info@decorandprops.com
