WITH the UK's unpredictable weather bringing rain throughout the year, it’s important that garden buildings are properly maintained to prevent water damage and rot.
If you don’t notice the tell-tale signs, you could find yourself having to fork out £2,000 for a new shed when you least expect it.
Shed expert Sam Jenkinson at garden building retailer Tiger,shares the one warning sign to look out for that shows your garden building is being damaged by mould or rot.
The damp line
Sam shared: “A clear damp line at the base of your shed or log cabin after rainfall is a warning sign that the structure is absorbing water.
“This happens when the wood is untreated or lacks sufficient weatherproofing, allowing moisture to seep in.
“Over time, this can lead to serious issues such as wood rot, mould, and even structural instability.”;
The shed expert explained that the line will appear as rain bounces off the surrounding ground and hits the lower part of your shed, where the wood then absorbs the moisture.
He added: “It can also be directly hit by rain if it’s exposed.
“Often you can spot the line once the rain has stopped, while the rest of your garden dries out, this part of the shed will remain visibly wet for longer.”;
Thankfully, there are four ways to help weatherproof your garden building...
Treat your shed with a waterproof sealant
Sam said: “Applying a high-quality wood preservative or weatherproofing sealant is one of the best ways to protect your shed.”;
This should be done at least once a year to keep moisture out and prevent rot and decay.
Before applying the treatment, ensure the shed is completely dry.
Clean the surface thoroughly, check for any damage, and lightly sand down the wood to help the treatment absorb better.
Then, apply the sealant with a brush or roller for even coverage.
Improve drainage around the base
If your shed sits directly on the ground or an unsuitable base, water can pool around it, leading to moisture absorption.
Sam added: “To prevent this, install a well-drained foundation such as a raised concrete slab or gravel bed.
“You can also consider adding a damp-proof membrane beneath the structure to block moisture from rising into the wood.”;
Check your roof for damage
The cabin professional advised: “Your garden building’s roof takes the brunt of bad weather, so it’s important to inspect it regularly.
“Clear away any leaves or debris so rainwater can run off easily.
“Look for signs of wear and tear along the edges and ridge line, and repair or replace any damaged shingles as needed.
“Keeping the roof in good condition will help prevent leaks and moisture buildup.”;
Rules on turning sheds into bedrooms
MANY people are turning to smaller outdoor structures to create more room in their homes but here's the rules you need to stick to if you live in the UK and want to do it yourself.
- Planning Permission:
- Generally, outbuildings like sheds are considered permitted development and do not require planning permission if they meet certain criteria (e.g., not taking up more than 50% of the garden, not being forward of the principal elevation, and being single-storey with a maximum height of 2.5 metres if within 2 metres of a boundary).
- However, converting a shed into a habitable space like a bedroom may change its classification, potentially requiring planning permission. It's best to check with your local planning authority to confirm.
- Building Regulations:
- Any conversion that involves creating a habitable space must comply with building regulations. These regulations ensure the safety, health, and welfare of people in and around buildings.
- Key areas covered include structural integrity, fire safety, insulation, ventilation, damp proofing, electrical safety, and escape routes.
- Insulation and Heating:
- Proper insulation is essential to make the space comfortable and energy-efficient. This includes insulating walls, roofs, and floors.
- Adequate heating must be installed to ensure the room can be used year-round.
- Ventilation:
- Adequate ventilation is necessary to prevent condensation and ensure good air quality. This may involve installing windows that can be opened or mechanical ventilation systems.
- Electrical Work:
- All electrical work must comply with Part P of the building regulations. It is advisable to have electrical work carried out by a qualified electrician.
- Water Supply and Drainage:
- If you plan to include a bathroom or kitchen facilities, you will need to ensure proper water supply and drainage systems are in place, complying with relevant regulations.
- Fire Safety:
- Fire safety measures, such as smoke detectors and fire-resistant materials, must be incorporated to ensure the safety of occupants.
- Access and Egress:
- The converted space must have safe and accessible routes for entering and exiting, including emergency escape routes.
- Neighbour Considerations:
- If your property is in a conservation area, listed, or subject to other restrictions, additional rules may apply.
Before proceeding with the conversion, it is highly recommended to consult with your local planning authority and a qualified professional to ensure all legal requirements and safety standards are met.
Seal any gaps or cracks
Gaps in doors, windows, and corners can let water seep into your shed, leading to dampness inside, according to the expert.
He shared: “Regularly inspect these areas for any cracks and seal them using caulk, or a weatherproof sealant.
“If you find any soft or rotting wood, remove the affected area and fill it with a high-quality wood filler before sanding and repainting or staining for added protection.”;
