As yellow weather warnings spread across the UK, and heavy rain forecast to flood parts of the country, it’s vital to waterproof your shed to prevent the devastating effects
of water damage.

Water can wreak havoc if it gets inside and can not only damage your tools and equipment but your shed’s structural strength. Heavy rain can be a gardener’s worst nightmare,
but good planning can help extend the life of your shed.

To keep your shed watertight, and help you save money down the line, Jack Sutcliffe, founder of Yorkshire-based shed manufacturers,
Power
Sheds, has shared his five tips for protecting and weatherproofing your shed.

1.
Focus on the shed base

Particularly if the water level rises in the garden, you want to make sure that the base of your shed is fully protected. One way to do this is by adding a sealant between
the concrete base and the shed’s frame. When sealing these parts, make sure you do it from the outside as well as the inside. This is the most secure way to limit water and moisture getting into the shed and the concrete.

Another way to protect the base is by building a drainage system around the shed. Whether you try a gravel pad or a more elaborate project like a French drain, the key objective
is to keep the water away from the foundation. Either of these structures will get the rainwater moving along and prevent it from forming pools around the shed base.

2.
Fill any gaps and cracks with filler

Wood shrinks over time, causing cracks to appear around the window and door frames which water may penetrate.

To prevent this from happening, regular checks for gaps are important. If you notice any cracks or gaps, fill them with expanding foam and builder’s caulking. To further
protect your doors, fill the gaps with excluder tape.

3.
Ventilation is essential

Moisture in the air is just as dangerous as water itself, so it doesn’t matter if you think your shed is watertight, it can become damaged if it isn’t well ventilated. Installing
a pair of static vents or an electric fan on either side of the shed to allow adequate airflow will help the longevity of your shed.

4.
Keep your gutters clean

A simple way to prevent water damage is to install gutters. They divert rainwater away from the shed’s foundation and allows water to run down a plastic pipe, minimising
its contact with the timber.

Top tip: To prevent overflow and build up, keep your guttering
free from leaves and regularly check them for debris. You can even install leaf guards, which can make it easier to keep your gutters clean.

5.
Install siding

When it comes to choosing a siding for your shed, vinyl siding is a great option. It is made using high-quality plastic (PVC) and is available in a wide variety of colours
and thicknesses for an affordable price. The material repels water, and is highly durable, maintenance-free, and easy to install. It’s resistant to rust and keeps out moisture.

Jack Sutcliffe, co-founder of Power Sheds, also commented: 

“The cold, wet weather that comes in winter can be damaging for our gardens – especially wooden sheds. As harsher conditions arrive, its important people take time to prepare
their sheds. Our practical tips will keep your shed in the best possible condition in all seasons, saving you money on maintenance and repair costs.” 

To find out more about long term fixes to waterproof and insulate your shed, visit:

How to Waterproof and Insulate a Shed