If you have a home with a shed or outhouse, you’ll know just how useful that extra bit of space can be. You might use it to store old gym equipment, lawnmowers, or boxes of kids’ toys that might come into use one day. Whatever you use your shed for, one thing’s for sure: it is probably dusty and damp, right?
In this post we will explore common problems that come from under-maintained sheds, and how to ultimately keep your shed in better condition going forward to avoid these issues!
Common Problems Caused By Damp and Dirt In Sheds
If you leave your shed to its own devices, there are likely to be some problems down the line. Especially if you are keeping anything biodegradable – such as chicken feed or pet bedding – in your shed, or the shed is made of wood, you’re going to see some changes happen before your eyes.
Here are some common problems caused by damp and dirt in sheds.
- Woodworm infestations. If you leave the timber of your shed to become damp over time, this can cause all sorts of challenges – and one of those is woodworm infestations. If you notice little holes in your wood, it’s likely that these are being made by woodworms, who will eat right through the softened, damp timber. Treating a woodworm infestation can be a lengthy process, so it’s best to prevent them from coming in altogether.
- Rats or mice. A warm, dry place that’s easy to access? Rats and mice will find it and make it their home. If you are keeping anything they could eat or sleep in, they’ll come. Rats and mice can be difficult to get rid of once they settle in, and are highly attracted to sheds and outhouses because they are accessible and warmer than the outdoors!
- Damp, mold and rotting. If the timber of your shed isn’t properly taken care of, it can rot over time. This makes it a more hazardous structure, prone to collapse or warping. In addition, it might cause the contents of the shed to become rusty, rotten and generally unusable.
How To Keep Your Shed In Good Condition
Now we have explored the damage that an unkempt shed can experience, let’s take a look at the solutions to these problems.
As you will already be aware, prevention is better than treatment. If your shed is in good condition right now, you can use these tips to keep it that way. Nevertheless, there are ways to fix your shed woes, so stick around if your shed is already in need of help!
- Protect the roof and floor with metal sheeting.
One of the biggest mistakes you can make with a wooden shed, is to leave it exposed to the elements. Wood can’t hold up against rain for too many years before it starts to become damp, and even rotten. To protect your shed from this fate, make sure you are applying metal sheeting to the roof and floor. This allows you to protect from rising damp and damp from rain too.
- Store all biodegradable materials in sealed plastic tubs.
To prevent a descent of rats and mice onto your shed, you need to store away your biodegradable goods. This means putting pet bedding, chicken feed or any other garden material in sealable plastic tubs or metal bins that have weighted lids. By doing that, you will be avoiding temptation from little creatures who want to share your bounty!
Plus, the materials are likely to last much longer if they are sealed away from too much oxygen exposure. They will also avoid any dampness that comes through the timber, making them last even longer!
- Clean your shed more often.
As a family, you probably have a to-do list as long as your arm. Last on that list is likely to be a bullet point that reads, “Clean the shed.” In other words, it’s the last chore you want to do, and the last chore most people prioritise. We get it!
It is true, though, that cleaning your shed more often will lead to fewer structural and dampness issues down the line. Removing mould, ensuring there’s nothing rotting, and generally cleaning up every month or so will be hugely beneficial, and might even help you avoid replacing the shed for years to come.
In conclusion…
If you are wanting to upgrade your shed, or just keep it in better condition, use this guide to help you get there!