When considering the life expectancy of a wooden shed, there are many factors to take into account. The quality of materials used in its manufacture, the level of skill and craftsmanship that goes into its construction, the installation of the shed, and the foundations it is erected on – all these areas will impact the longevity of your shed.
How materials affect the lifespan of a shed
At Sutton Sheds, our wooden garden buildings are manufactured from matching or loglap tongue and grooved redwood timber. Redwood is one of the most durable softwoods and is an excellent choice for garden sheds and summerhouses. Its naturally occurring chemical renders the wood weatherproof, insect resilient and rot resistant – all great defences against our British weather! A premium timber, redwood produces long straight boards which can be lined up with no deviations. Redwood also has an excellent strength: weight ratio and can be easily worked by hand or machinery.
How to make a wooden shed last longer
- Installing your wooden shed on strong foundations is key to your shed lasting as long as possible. A stable base will stop your shed from shifting and settling. It needs to be strong enough to bear the weight of the shed and its contents, while ensuring sufficient air flow can circulate under the building and all around it. What foundations do I need for my shed? explains the options available.
- Regular maintenance of the shed roof will prolong the life of your shed by keeping it dry and watertight. A roof that overhangs the walls of the shed will help to divert rainwater away from the structure. At Sutton Sheds, our wooden pent sheds and apex sheds do just this and are finished with a quality polyester roofing felt with a life expectancy of 10-15 years. Your roof should be checked regularly for debris, rips and tears and remedial action taken immediately. Our guide to shed roofing explains how to take care of your shed roof.
- Regular, ongoing maintenance is vital as your shed will not be immune to the ravages of age and weather! The timber should be kept free of dirt and mould which should not be allowed to build up. If mould does appear, simply remove it with soapy water and a sponge. Where mould has been allowed to build up, the shed may need to be sanded down and repainted.
- A wood preserver should be applied to a dry shed. This will protect against mould and insect infestation while also acting as a primer for wood stain, paint or wood oil. Treating your shed this way is recommended at least every two years, if not annually, for maximum effect.
- Reducing the risk of timber rotting will also ensure your shed lasts a long time. Regular treatment will help (as above) but also try to position the shed in sunlight rather than areas of damp shade (under trees for example) and avoid positions at the bottom of a slope where your shed will suffer from water rundown. The addition of guttering will help keep water away from the timber too.
How durable are wooden sheds?
If the above steps are followed, a well-constructed timber shed, manufactured by craftsmen using quality materials, will last decades.
Wooden sheds in Lincolnshire from Sutton Sheds
With over 45 years’ experience, our highly skilled craftsmen use only high quality materials. All our standard models of wooden pent sheds and apex sheds are made to order and we also offer a custom build service. For your next, long lasting and durable wooden shed in Lincolnshire, contact us today via email or telephone on 01526 342777.
