Whatever age your wooden shed is, there are steps that you can follow to keep it as free from damp as possible.
Damp proofing an existing shed
The ravages of time and adverse weather conditions will take a toll on a wooden shed but with regular checks, the damage can be kept to a minimum. Carrying out the following maintenance checks methodically will alert you to any damage as early as possible, allowing you the time to address it.
Checking a timber shed roof
Examine the roofing felt closely, for rips and tears which could cause leaks in wet weather. If you find any, replace the felt – our guide to shed roofing will help you with this. Leaks are not always caused by damaged roofing felt so if the felt is in sound condition, but you have leaks, check any guttering for blockages.
Checking windows and doors on a wooden shed
Check for gaps in window and door frames that may be a result of the timber shrinking and cracking over time. Where there are any, they can be filled with wood filler or a silicone sealant.
Checking shed walls
While new sheds will be delivered fully treated, a protective treatment should be reapplied annually to keep the risk of damp to a minimum. If you have an older shed that has succumbed to damp that has been allowed to spread, it might be time for a new wooden pent shed or apex shed.
Damp proofing a new wooden shed
At Sutton Sheds, when we manufacture our Lincolnshire sheds, we use a quality preservative on the timber by Protek, whose wood treatments are ethical and environmentally-friendly. One coat of product is applied to all external surfaces to give a water repellent surface and this will last 12-18 months before you should re-treat the shed. Where preferred, customers can choose from the Protek Royal Exterior Superior Wood Finish range which offers over 80 colours.
Ongoing shed maintenance
Protek make other shed treatments which we recommend, including a shed and fence treatment as well as a wood stain. Our guide to wood treatment and protection for your garden buildings has lots more information.
How to keep a shed free from damp
Regular treatment and maintenance checks will help you to head off the onset of damp in your shed, but there are other things that will help:
Good foundations – the lifespan and effectiveness of your shed relies on it being installed on good foundations. The correct foundations can prevent damp penetrating for the floor of your shed and keep it dry. What foundations do I need for my shed? is a must-read.
Sufficient ventilation - ventilation is key to preventing damp. Open shed doors and windows every few days and consider a bespoke custom build shed with integral air vents.
Store tools correctly – Tools should be completely dry before being stored away and wherever possible, kept in airtight containers with sachets of silica gel to absorb any moisture.
Sheds in Lincolnshire from Sutton Sheds
Our family-run business has been manufacturing garden buildings, using quality materials and skilled craftsmanship for over 40 years. Whether you are looking for a wooden pent shed, apex shed, workshop, timber garage, potting shed or summerhouse, we can help. Call today to find out more, on 01526 342777 or contact us by email.
