Just as we struggle with the wet weather here in the UK, so too do our wooden garden buildings. Our sheds, summerhouses, workshops and garages all need proper protection to avoid succumbing to the damage that moisture causes, such as rot, mould and structural damage.
Keeping your shed dry involves much more than simply treating the timber, although that is a great step to take. But protecting your shed starts even before it has been installed!
Where is the best place to put a shed?
Believe it or not, where you position your shed can go a long way towards protecting it against moisture and damp.
• The ground needs to be well-drained so that pooling of water as it settles does not occur around the shed base.
• Try not to position the shed under overhanging trees as these will continue to drip water onto the roof long after the rain has stopped!
• Good airflow is also vital – where possible always leave at least a 30cm gap between the shed and any fences or walls to allow air to circulate and help dry out any dampness.
Good shed foundations are crucial
Rising damp from grass or soil can make its way easily into your shed so never sit a wooden structure directly on the ground. Proper foundations are key, and there are several options outlined in What foundations do I need for my shed?
Without a solid foundation, your shed (particularly if it is storing lots of heavy equipment or machinery) will slowly begin to sink into the ground and, unfortunately, it probably won’t sink evenly! If your shed is not level, it will suffer from structural issues including cracks and windows and doors that won’t open properly. Eventually, if left unchecked, your shed will be susceptible to collapsing. Read Does a shed need to be perfectly level? to find out more.
A proper foundation provides essential drainage and stability, and raised bases are particularly effective as they allow water to drain away underneath and keep the shed off the cold, damp ground – handy in wetter areas.
Treating your timber shed
Once your shed has been installed in the best position, on the best foundations for it, it’s time to turn your attention to treating the timber.
A garden building from Sutton Sheds will not be manufactured from pressure treated or dipped timber (find out why we don’t use pressure treated timber) but it will have been treated with a quality wood preservative prior to installation. This gives the structure a water-repellent surface which will last for approximately 12-18 months before further treatment is necessary.
Moving forwards, your shed should be treated annually and attention should be paid to areas such as the base of walls and windowsills where water can collect. Our guide to wood treatment and protection for your garden buildings tells you about the different treatments available.
Maintaining your shed roof
Of course, the quickest and most direct route for moisture to enter your shed is via a leaky roof! There are certain steps that you should incorporate into your maintenance schedule:
• Check the roof regularly for signs of damage, at least annually but particularly after storms.
• Replace any torn felt, ensuring it overlaps the walls properly to prevent water ingress.
• Consider replacing the entire roof covering when necessary – our guide to shed roofing will help to identify when the time is right.
Improve drainage and guttering
Logically, any water that runs off your shed roof needs somewhere to go. Installing guttering and downpipes directs rainwater away from the shed, reduces splashback, and stops water pooling around the base. Downpipes can also be diverted into a water butt to collect rainwater for use in your garden—a win-win for your shed and your sustainability efforts.
Don’t forget to keep the area around the shed clear of leaves and debris, as this will prevent water from backing up or soaking into the ground too close to the shed walls.
Keeping a wooden shed well-ventilated
As mentioned above, it’s important to allow good airflow around the shed to prevent condensation and to keep the interior dry. Installing air vents or leaving a small gap around the eaves can make a big difference. If you use your shed for storing damp items (like garden tools or firewood), try to allow them to dry out elsewhere first.
While it’s important to seal the shed, it shouldn’t be sealed too tightly – an airtight structure will trap moisture inside, which can lead to mould and mildew.
Wooden sheds in Lincolnshire from Sutton Sheds
At Sutton Sheds, we have been building wooden pent sheds and apex roof sheds in Lincolnshire for over 40 years. All our buildings are manufactured from quality timber at our Lincolnshire-based workshop and feature the finest craftsmanship. Our standard sheds share a uniform spec but are made to order and none are kept in storage. For customers wanting to individualise their buildings or add specific detailing, we also offer a bespoke, custom-build service.
To find out more about our wooden garden sheds, contact us today or give the team a call on 01526 342777.
