Garden sheds are a big investment, so it’s smart to take the time to care for them and perform regular maintenance to get the most out of your purchase. Here are some simple ways to take care of your garden shed and keep it in great shape.
Perform a Regular Inspection
At least once a year, you should perform a thorough inspection on your shed. Check for any peeling paint, protruding nails, rotting wood, or any red flags in general. Not only should you scan the outside of your shed, but you should inspect the inside too. Many people often overlook the interior of their sheds when checking for damage, and this could lead to bigger problems down the road.
Additionally, be sure to take a look at the roof of your shed, as it’s another place that often isn’t accounted for during shed maintenance. The roof of a garden shed can be easily affected by the weather, so don’t forget to check to make sure there isn’t any damage.
Check for Pests
Along with inspecting your shed for damage, you should also look around to make sure that no pests have made your shed their home. If they have, be sure to get rid of them as soon as possible. If there aren’t any pests, you should still take a few preventative measures to stop them from invading your shed in the future.
To keep your shed pest-free, it’s a good idea to always keep the grass and vegetation surrounding the shed trimmed and tidy. Additionally, try not to store things inside the shed that may attract bugs and animals, like garbage, pet food, or even firewood. Lastly, make sure to sweep or vacuum out your shed at least once per season. Pests are less likely to settle in a clean shed.
Wash the Siding
Whether you have a wood, vinyl, or metal shed, you should always take the time to clean the siding. Washing the exterior of your shed on a regular basis will help prevent mildew and mold from growing. To clean the siding, use a gentle solution of soap and water. Or, if you have a pressure washer, use it on a low setting to prevent damage.
Repaint Siding if Needed
If you have a metal or vinyl shed, repainting it probably won’t be necessary. However, wood sheds should be repainted every five years or so. When choosing a paint for your shed, be sure to pick one that is durable, fade-resistant, and prevents mold and mildew growth. Additionally, it’s not a bad idea to apply an oil-based primer before painting. This will help seal any holes in the wood, and it will also make it harder for termites to feed on the wood.
Get Organized
While it’s not exactly maintenance, organizing your shed is a key part of keeping it in good condition. Anyone who owns a shed knows that they can become full of clutter in the blink of an eye, so it’s beneficial to set aside some time to organize your shed a few times a year.
Every once in a while, you should go through the items in your shed and determine which can stay, and which should be thrown out, stored elsewhere, or donated. Generally, if you haven’t used something in over a year, there’s a good chance that you won’t be needing it in the future.
Check Security
It’s crucial to pay attention to your shed’s security features, especially if you store expensive equipment inside of it. Make sure that the locks work properly and are secure, and that the windows and doors are intact.
If you’re concerned about the safety of your shed’s contents, you can even purchase paint that’s frosted or tinted and apply it on the windows. This will prevent people from being able to see inside your shed.
While shed maintenance isn’t anyone’s favorite thing to do, it’s essential for maximizing the lifespan of your garden shed. If you have any other questions about maintenance for garden sheds, feel free to contact us.