Maintaining your shed is essential to ensure its longevity and functionality. Regular upkeep helps prevent major issues from developing and keeps your shed looking great year-round. This guide will cover essential seasonal maintenance tasks you should complete every fall and spring.
Fall & Spring Inspections
Regular inspections are crucial to identify potential problems before they become major issues. As the leaves begin to fall and temperatures drop, it’s important to walk around your shed looking for potential problems before the winter months. Check for missing or damaged shingles and ensure gutters are firmly attached to your roof, allowing water to flow properly. Inspect the walls and foundation for cracks or signs of shifting. Look for signs of rodents or insects that may seek shelter in your shed as it gets colder.
After the winter thaw, it’s time to assess any ice damage to prepare your shed for the warmer months. Look for water damage, mold, or mildew caused by snow and ice. Common places are along ridges, door frames, and window frames. As it begins to rain, be on the lookout for leaks that may have been too small to spot around the same areas. It’s also important to ensure that nothing is blocking the shed’s ventilation for those humid summer months.
Fall & Spring Cleaning
Keeping your shed clean not only improves its appearance but also prevents pest infestations and prolongs its lifespan. Seasonal cleaning in the fall and spring removes debris and dirt that can cause damage over time.
To prepare your shed for the winter, remove leaves and debris from your gutter and roof to prevent water overflow. You should also clear away any fallen leaves, branches, and dirt from around the sides of your shed. Sweep out the interior and underside of your shed. Pests will try to find dry, warm spaces to hibernate from the winter cold but will not pick areas they find to be recently disturbed.
Spring cleaning is all about refreshing your shed and getting it ready for the warmer months. Clean any mold or mildew on your siding and roof that may have developed over winter. Clean your windows to ensure they’ll let in more natural light. Again, sweep the floors and dust off surfaces. You can take this time to reorganize your tools and supplies and discard your unwanted belongings.
Common Repairs Sheds Will Need
Even with diligent inspections and cleanings, sheds are subject to various issues over time, like roof leaks. Knowing how to address these common problems will help you maintain your shed for decades.
Roof Damage
Roof issues are among the most common shed problems. If you spot any damage or leaks during inspection, immediate maintenance can prevent further damage. Replace any missing or damaged shingles to prevent leaks. You may even need to replace the sheathing if the wood is rotting beneath.
Door and Window Repair
Doors and windows are common sources of issues in sheds, as the seals can deteriorate, causing drafts and water leaks. You should caulk your window and door frames yearly and replace the weatherstripping as needed. If your windows were cracked in a storm, replace any broken windows to maintain insulation and security. Your doors can also become misaligned over time. Tighten hinges and latches regularly to ensure doors close securely.
Pest Damage
As mentioned before, sheds often attract pests looking for shelter. They can tear open entry points to your shed if given the opportunity. Patch any gaps or holes around your foundation where pests can enter or chew their way in. In some extreme cases, you may need to contact an exterminator to apply appropriate pest control products.
Invest in a Long-Lasting Shed
Regular seasonal shed maintenance is essential for keeping your shed in top condition. By performing thorough seasonal inspections, regular fall & spring cleaning, and common repairs, you can ensure your shed remains functional and attractive for decades. If your shed is in disrepair, consider starting from scratch with a new shed from Glick Structures. Our sheds are hand-built to last, so you’ll find seasonal maintenance easy with less repairs needed over the years. Contact us today to get started.
