As the wet, winter weather begins to settle in across the UK, garden sheds are facing an increased risk of falling into disrepair.
Moisture can be a major threat to the integrity of our much-loved garden sheds. Without the proper care, it could even lead to huge problems including major structural damage.
To help homeowners keep their sheds in top condition this winter, shed expert Sam Jenkinson from garden building retailer Tiger has shared his insights into how ventilation can be the key to preventing wood rot.
Undertaking basic maintenance on your shed in winter, including ensuring proper ventilation, helps prevent moisture buildup that can lead to wood rot and structural damage.
Regular upkeep while the weather holds it the key to keeping your shed dry and functional, protecting your garden equipment through the colder months.
Sam said: “Ventilation is essential in preventing wood rot in sheds as it controls moisture, which is a primary cause of wood rot, however, it often gets overlooked.”
Proper airflow inside a shed helps eliminate excess moisture from the air and the wood structure, which reduces the buildup of dampness that leads to fungal growth.
“Condensation on the wood can cause it to become damp, and the combination of trapped moisture and humidity increases the risk of rot,” Sam points out. By promoting air circulation, ventilation keeps your shed dry and prevents it from becoming too humid.
Additionally, ventilation regulates the temperature inside the shed, preventing hot, stagnant air from trapping moisture in the wood. This reduces the chances of fungal spores thriving, as they typically grow in warm, humid, poorly ventilated conditions.
Maintaining good ventilation not only reduces the risk of wood rot but also extends a shed’s lifespan by preventing structural damage, “making it more durable and less prone to costly repairs.”
1. Treat your shed with a wood preserver
Sam recommends treating wooden shed walls with a wood preservative annually to protect against fungi, dry rot, pests, and wet rot.
Ensure the shed is dry before application, clean the surface, check for damage, sand lightly for better absorption, and then apply the preservative with a brush or roller.
2. Keep an eye on your doors and windows
The expert advises checking the frames of wooden doors and windows for cracks and gaps, as cold weather can make them more susceptible to damage.
Seal any gaps with caulk or expanding foam, and replace any rotten areas with wood filler, sanding smooth before repainting or restaining.
3. Check your roof
Sam recommends clearing your shed roof of leaves and debris to ensure proper water runoff, especially during winter. Check the edges and ridge for wear, repairing shingles with sealant or replacing damaged ones to keep your roof weatherproof.
4. Reduce moisture inside
Sam advises removing damp items like paper, cardboard, and fabrics from your shed, as they can absorb moisture from the walls and floors.
Using a desiccant dehumidifier can also help keep the atmosphere dry, especially in UK weather, if an electrical supply is available.