As winter once again comes around it's time to take a look at how to protect your shed from the perils of the winter season. From cold drafts to sudden blizzards there are a few things to look out for and a few things you need to do in order to prepare. In this blog we’ll talk about those things and highlight the best ways to maintain your shed year round.
Securing the Exterior
The roof is above all the most important area when it comes to securing your shed, especially in the winter season. Checking if the felt needs redoing, especially around the peak and around the edges as this will be the most likely area of damage. Adding EDPM to your shed roof is a great way to add an extra level of durable protection for your shed, when properly installed EDPM protects your shed for many years. Another thing to consider is installing gutters for extra water (and snow) to run off during the winter months, at the very least ensure there are sufficient gaps between the edge of your roof and the walls.
Waterproofing a Shed
Our high-quality garden sheds are built using timber that’s pressure-treated with wood preservative and guaranteed to last at least 10 years. However, it’s essential to apply a suitable timber treatment as soon as your shed is installed and to repeat this each year. This helps protect your shed from the elements, preventing the preservative from leaching out and avoiding rot.
To prevent damp, ensure there’s enough space around your shed for proper airflow, allowing moisture to evaporate before it causes problems. Also, trim back any weeds or shrubs growing against the shed, as these can lead to damage over time.
Preventing Damp and Condensation
Keeping your shed free from dampness is another essential when it comes to over winter maintenance. Any cool metallic objects inside can cause water to attach and drip down, which will then result in damp forming inside the shed. To prevent this consider installing insulation throughout your shed, this alone will work wonders in preventing condensation and the eventual build up of damp. Other things to consider would be a stand alone heater not only does it prevent dampness but it's also a much needed comfort if you ever need to spend time inside your shed over winter, a simple flick and the once frosty reception inside can become a warm cosy garden den.
Keeping your Shed Ventilated
Less important than preventing dampness and keeping the snow and the water on the outside of the shed, keeping a healthy airflow is still something to consider. Installing a vent is a great idea as it’s not just handy for winter time but all year long, keeping it fresh in winter and keeping it cool during the summer. During winter vents are great to keep the shed healthy, with the right vent it keeps the damp away and a clean breath throughout the cold months.
Protecting your Tools
Another method to protect your shed especially from damp is to put your tools away. Putting power tools away is highly recommended, as soon as water gets into power tools it can cause really big problems and even render them completely broken. So an enclosed tool station, cupboards and boxes are a good recommendation for both avoiding damp but also keeping the tools in prime condition.
