A storage shed is an important investment that should give you that dry and secure place for storage, improve your property as an attractive additional building, and last you a lifetime. With the proper occasional maintenance, your shed should accomplish all these things. Here are ten tips for keeping your shed in great shape for years to come:
All floors will benefit from being kept dry. Your shed might see it’s fair share of wet mowers or lawn debris, as well as occasional oil and fuel spills. The important thing is to prevent long exposure to these liquids. Keep a broom handy to sweep away puddles, and maybe some sawdust or cat litter to mop up the occasional fuel spill.
Consider installing a skirt of wire mesh or corrugated paneling between the walls and the ground of your shed. Protecting the gap between the ground and your walls can prevent debris or critters from getting in there. Make sure air can flow through whatever material you choose. And maintain the grade of the land next to your shed to ensure no puddling happens underneath.
If you don’t have a durable floor inside of your shed, you can improve the protection of the material you have chosen by applying floor paint. Floor paints are designed to protect your floor. With materials such as plywood flooring, they go a long way to help maintain the floor and can improve the look.
The paint that comes with your shed will likely start to peel or crack at some point. This is a sign that it is time to repaint your shed. A new coat of paint will help to protect your shed walls and provide a refreshed look to your backyard.
Moisture is the enemy of longevity in wood construction. This article from This Old House has lots of information about installing gutters. Gutters and their downspouts will keep water away from the sides and eaves of your building. Downspouts will concentrate the flow of water away from the building and let you choose where the drainage occurs.
If you notice leaks inside of your shed, it may be time for a new roof. But before you decide on a full replacement, consider repairing the roof yourself. This article has some tips to help you get the job done.
Don’t let dirt and organic debris accumulate near your shed. Consider rocking in areas where your shed might contact the ground. If you have a ramp entrance to your shed, install a gravel pad or concrete footer where it meets the ground. Clear debris and dirt away from the sides of your shed regularly.
If your doors aren’t closing snugly your building may have come off level. Leveling and stabilizing the building will help preserve its structural integrity over time. SF Gate has a good article here about re-leveling your shed.
There are plenty of other creatures in your area who want to utilize your shed. Keep an eye on your floor, sides, eaves, and roof for signs of potential entry, and stop their access as quickly as possible. Many birds and wasps like to build nests in the eaves of buildings. Rodents will access dry spaces through any small hole available to them. If you see signs of critter presence inside of your building, find their way in, plug it, and trap with diligence until they are gone.
Many of the problems that occur with utility sheds occur are hidden by clutter and debris that can accumulate inside of a shed. Those critters mentioned above are looking for a good hiding spot, don’t give them one. Pooling water or leaking fuel can be concealed underneath the broken mower that has occupied the same corner for too long. Be sure to keep things organized and accessible inside your shed to determine if problems are occurring.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can get the longest life possible out of your utility shed or other portable building.
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