A wooden shed is a considered and significant purchase that should last you for many years. As winter approaches, there are certain steps to take that will ensure your shed survives all that the season could throw at it. If you are methodical in your shed inspection, starting at the top and working your way around and down, you shouldn’t miss anything that needs attention.
Examine the shed roof
Thoroughly inspect the roof felt for any damage or worn areas that could let water through, paying close attention to the edges and the areas around the nails. Where there is damage such as tears or rips, carry out repairs as soon as possible or, if the damage is extensive, replace the entire felt.
Check the guttering
Where your shed has gutters attached, check that they are free of debris and remove any build up of leaves that will cause blockages. Where your shed has no guttering, consider having it installed so rainwater can be diverted away from the shed into the ground or perhaps into a water butt.
Check windows and doors
Shed windows and doors need to be watertight to cope with winter conditions. Check for damaged glazing, replacing any broken panes, and use a silicone sealant to fill any gaps.
Locks and hinges
Metal fittings will be prone to rust damage in wet or damp conditions. To avoid locks and hinges from being difficult to open in the spring, apply oil to them regularly over the winter months.
Check the shed base
It’s vital to check the air gap beneath the base of the shed. Any build-up of debris should be removed immediately to maintain the gap and maintain good air flow, and regular checks should be carried out throughout the year to prevent vegetation, grass or foliage growing under the shed. Check your foundations too, for signs of subsidence which can sometimes be seen in visible listing of the shed or doors and windows sticking.
Tidy and clean the inside of the shed
Pick a dry autumn day and empty the contents of the shed so that you can thoroughly clean the interior. Remove accumulated mud, dirt and dust from gardening tools, furniture or anything stored in the shed. With the interior of the shed cleared, take the time to sweep the floor, dust and clean the walls, and wash the windows; where any mould or damp is found, wipe away with a bleach solution to prevent it spreading.
Apply a timber treatment and protection
Regular (at least annual) applications of a wood preserver and treatment will protect timber sheds against weather damage, mould and fungi, and insect infestation. Water-based products like the Protek range are completely safe for use around pets and children and have a lower environmental impact than oil based products.
These simple steps can be carried out on every type of timber garden building, from wooden pent sheds and apex sheds to wooden potting sheds and wooden summerhouses.
Sutton Sheds - suppliers of quality sheds in Lincolnshire for over 40 years
If your shed has come to the end of its life and it’s time for a new one, Sutton Sheds offer a wide range of handcrafted, standard design apex sheds and pent sheds, as well as a totally bespoke service. All our buildings are constructed by skilled tradesmen using only quality, high grade timber and all our sheds are supplied with a water-based treatment applied.
To discuss your next shed, please contact us or give our friendly team a call on 01526 342777.
