How to avoid a mouldy shed this winter

How to avoid a mouldy shed this winter

Our sheds and outdoor buildings need just as much love and attention as the rest of our garden, particularly during these cold, damp and blustery winter months.

If they’re not properly protected and looked after, wooden sheds can easily deteriorate and start to show signs of wear and tear, which is far from ideal if they are being used for storage. Here’s some advice to stop your shed from developing damp and mould.

Treat your timber regularly
Many sheds come untreated, so it’s important to treat the wood initially, and then on a yearly basis thereafter. This is to protect the exterior against any harsh weather and to avoid wood rot.

Remove damp items
Perishable items like paper, cardboard and material should be kept off the floor and walls of your shed, as this will prevent them from sucking any moisture out of the timbers. Since timber likes to breathe, ensure you allow space for the air to circulate well.

Seal windows and doors
The windows and doors are weak points for draught. As a result, you’ll want to inspect window and door frames for any cold air that may be wafting through the gaps. Sealing them both inside and outside is your best bet. You can also install foam weather stripping insulating tape for added warmth.

There are a number of ways to prevent mould in garden sheds and outbuildings

Homeowners are being urged to perform checks on outside buildings for signs of hidden mould and dampness, as leaving it unchecked could lead to extensive issues later on.

Mould finds the colder season’s increased condensation and lacklustre ventilation particularly favourable for growth, suggest experts.

A concerning statistic from Homebrite Windows indicates that 58 percent of private rental properties in England are combating issues with damp and mould, which equates to around 2.7 million homes nationwide. Key indicators of mould include spotting discoloured patches on shed walls and ceilings, detecting a musty odour, noticing damp spots, or seeing staining and peeling surfaces.

Improve ventilation:

Ensuring a good airflow through the shed can help prevent mould. If your shed has windows, keep them open or install vents to lower humidity levels.

Check the roof:

Shed roofs are exposed to harsh weather conditions, so it’s important to regularly check for any signs of damage or missing materials. If there are issues, homeowners might be able to patch them up, otherwise, the shed may need re-roofing.

Protect your shed:

Treating the shed can protect it from the weather, wood rot, mould and algae. Choose the preservative that suits you best and apply it annually to maintain your outdoor building in good condition.

Dry items before storing:

Ensure items are dry before storing them to prevent mouldy patches. Keeping tools dry and disinfected, as well as other outdoor items, can help prevent mould formation.

Prevent leaks:

Regularly inspect the shed for any cracks or gaps. To fix these, use a sealant or apply waterproofing to the joints.