Essential Tips for Keeping Your Shed in Top Condition
At the heart of shed maintenance is damage prevention. Sheds are durable by nature and don't need a lot of attention. That's what makes them great outdoor buildings. However, a little attentive cleaning and the occasional repair will prevent the usual outdoor wear and tear from affecting the quality or longevity of your shed.
Just a few annual or seasonal tasks will do:
- Clean the outside and inside
- Keep the windows and doors in good condition
- Protect the surfaces and keep them weatherproofed
- Repair any small issues before they become a big issue.
Regular shed maintenance can protect your investment and keep the space functional and attractive.
Clean the Exterior
First, consider how to keep your shed's exterior clean and avoid loss of quality over time. Sheds sit outdoors and are exposed to the usual variety of dust, pollen, spores, rain, snow, pests, tree branches, and so on. Washing your shed just once or twice a year can make a big difference in keeping your shed in good condition.
A quick power wash of the siding can blast away most potential problems and lingering dust. Clearing away debris from around the outside helps to avoid pests and moisture buildup. A little clever gardening can help keep the shed foundation clear and dry.
Repaint Exposed Wood
If you see any area where the shed's wood walls have been exposed, it's time for a touch of paint. The type of outdoor paint used on sheds is not just attractive, it also helps to seal in and protect the wood from outside elements. Properly sealed wood is the key to the longevity and long-term quality of your shed. You can also keep a single can of touch-up paint for several years of quick finish repairs if you properly seal and store the paint between uses.
Maintain Your Shed’s Roof
Your shed's roof needs care similar to that of your home's. To ensure the roof stays in good condition, remember to check for leaks, power wash away any growing algae or moss, and clear the gutters during the appropriate seasons. If you detect a leak in your shed roof, a roofer will be able to quickly patch the hole to prevent further problems and keep your shed in premium condition.
Maintain the Windows and Doors
Windows and doors add quality and versatility to your shed, but they also need a little extra care to ensure long-term quality. Replace the weather stripping every 2-5 years to keep moisture, wind, and dust out of the interior. Check the windows for damaged seals and re-caulk them if the panes or frames appear loose. Oiling the knobs, hinges, and window tracks can also ensure smooth performance for hardware that may be exposed to weather and dust. These steps will help to avoid loss of functionality and maintain your shed's interior quality over time.
Prep for Winter Weather
Lastly, if you live in a region that is subject to heavy snow, remember to prep your shed for winter weather. Check your shed for paint and weather seal issues before winter sets in and repair them. Make sure your shed stays closed tight when not in use. Seal cracks and windows, clear the gutters, and keep out winter pests seeking shelter. You may also benefit from adding insulation to the walls or roof.
If your region experiences a stormy season in addition to winter, be sure to prepare your shed to withstand high winds, heavy rain, hail, and other relevant perils.
Enjoy Many Years with Your Shed
A little attentive maintenance goes a long way to shed longevity. If you have a shed that you enjoy, you can ensure it lasts many years providing good quality storage, shelter, and more just by building a practical maintenance routine. In most cases, caring for your shed pairs perfectly with maintenance steps you are already taking to care for your house, such as clearing the gutters and periodically replacing the weather stripping. By fixing these problems early, you can ensure they won't become bigger concerns later on.
