You’ve invested in a garden shed – and while it’s been a very welcome addition to your home, property and precious garden – you need to protect that investment. Of course, it should go without saying that the shed you choose should be one of high quality, whether you decide on one made of wood, plastic or metal.
It is actually possible to get a premium shed at a reasonable rate from a reputable business. Luckily, there are Garden Buildings Direct voucher codes from Whatshed.co.uk. You can check out the site to see what they have to offer.
Would You Care For Your Wood, Please?
Most experts will suggest, if your shed is wood, that you at least stain it or protect it. You have to properly finish wood with a paint, stain or clear sealant. Ironically, the enemy of wood is water – or more specifically, moisture, which can cause rot and decay. Wood is, by nature, sturdy, hardy and beautiful. But it needs care. Since most of us live in areas where seasons change, the fluctuations in climate can greatly affect the wood, which can crack and chip. If your shed features a window, take care in the condition of the caulking around the window or windows. You may feel that you have chosen a wood resistant to rot – redwood, cedar and cypress come to mind – but even those woods can decay (if not maintained well).
Wood siding will get discoloured, and the cause can plainly be put on dirt. It may seem like a chore – but it’s one that is well worth it – clean the exterior of your shed annually. Take a soft-bristled brush, grab a bucket and fill it with warm, soapy water. Tackle the shed in sections, starting from the top to the bottom. Before you move to the next section, rinse the area you’ve cleaned.
If your shed is painted, you’ll need to repaint it every five years or so – you may live in an area in which the elements are particularly harsh and will have to repaint even sooner. But staining is an excellent choice; since it is a penetrating sealer, be sure you want to keep the shed in the original colour you choose. The beauty of the grain comes through when wood is stained, and wood fibres are penetrated.
Some people may opt for a clear sealer, because wood can maintain its original colour and prevents moisture damage. The formulation in sealants lets ultraviolet light turn wood into silver-grey.
Made from Metal
There are variations of the type of metal you choose. You may, for example, choose galvanised steel, which are said to last a lifetime. If you’re not familiar with metal building materials, then you should know that solid metal is used in the military, but too heavy for your shed or even your home.
Steel siding is considered virtually maintenance free. But this doesn’t mean you don’t need to clean it, because you do. You can’t use a pressure washer on wood or vinyl, but you can on steel. But you can’t use the chemicals you use on wood and vinyl on steel, either. While you’re cleaning, be sure you turn off all lights and anything electrical.
Other amateur gardeners are great sources – you’ll find that you’re in a similar position in terms of space and budget. One source to check out is the popular site Quora, in which readers were asked, “what are the downsides to sheds” made of the different available materials.
You can also find resources online that has addressed a question asking about the basics for having a wooden shed that will last through the annual changes of seasons. Take note of all these points whenever you decide to purchase a shed.
