As temperatures begin to drop, now is the time to give your garden shed a little attention before the worst of the winter weather arrives.
And the experts at Forest Garden, the UK’s largest manufacturer of wooden garden products, are sharing their essential tips for getting sheds winter-ready.
From checking for leaks and clearing gutters to protecting tools from damp and making sure the roof is secure, a few simple jobs now could help prevent problems later.
Jenny Davis, Head of Marketing for Forest Garden, said: “A shed can easily be forgotten once the main gardening season comes to an end, but autumn is actually one of the most important times to give it some attention.”
Here, Jenny shares Forest Garden’s top five tips for prepping sheds for winter:
- Start at the top
Fallen leaves might look harmless, but allowing them to build up on a shed roof or in gutters can lead to problems over winter.
Leaves and other debris can trap water against the shed, creating damp patches and increasing moisture levels inside. Over time, persistent moisture can also contribute to timber deterioration.
Clear the roof thoroughly and, if your shed has guttering, remove any leaves and debris to allow rainwater to drain away freely.
- Give your shed some breathing room
Trees, shrubs and climbing plants can quickly encroach on a shed, so cut back any foliage that is touching the timber before winter arrives.
Plants resting against the walls can trap moisture and create damp areas, while overhanging branches present another risk. Strong winds, storms and the weight of snow can cause branches to move or break, potentially damaging the roof or sides of the shed.
Aim to leave a clear gap around the structure wherever possible.
- Give the timber some protection
If you have a dip-treated timber shed, regular treatment is important to help protect it from the elements.
Apply a suitable wood preservative annually to help protect the timber against moisture, insects and fungi. An oil or wax-based weatherproofing treatment can provide an additional layer of protection against wet winter weather.
Timing matters. Choose a clear, dry day so the treatment has plenty of time to penetrate the timber and dry properly. Applying it immediately before rain could mean some of the treatment is washed away before it has had a chance to do its job.
- Check your roof before the rain arrives
A small problem with your shed roof can quickly become a much bigger one during a wet British winter.
Inspect roofing felt carefully for cracks, tears, loose sections or other signs of damage. Any damaged or deteriorating felt should be repaired or replaced to help prevent water getting inside.
Catching a leak early doesn’t just protect the shed itself; it can also prevent water damage to tools, furniture and other belongings stored inside.
- Think twice about what stays in the shed
Not every garden shed offers the same level of protection from the elements, so don’t automatically assume everything stored inside will remain completely dry over winter.
Some sheds naturally allow more air and moisture inside than others, which can leave certain belongings vulnerable during prolonged periods of cold and damp weather.
Pay particular attention to metal garden tools and other items susceptible to rust or moisture damage. Make sure everything is clean and completely dry before putting it away and consider moving particularly valuable or vulnerable belongings somewhere drier for the winter months.
For gardeners looking to take some of the maintenance out of shed ownership, Forest Garden’s Timberdale range has been designed to withstand the elements without the need for annual timber treatment.
Expertly designed and hand built in Worcestershire, Timberdale sheds are constructed from robust tongue-and-groove timber which is pressure treated to protect against rot and comes with a 25-year anti-rot guarantee. Unlike many traditional timber sheds, there is no need to apply a preservative treatment when the shed is installed or re-treat the timber every year.
Jenny added: “Timberdale sheds are built for people who want a garden building that will stand up to the British weather without demanding lots of maintenance.”
Forest Garden’s range of Timberdale sheds are available now, with prices starting at £787.99.
