Homeowners urged to check 'the ceiling of the garden shed' this month

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. With the cold months upon us, GardenBuildingsDirect has stepped in with expert advice to help prevent mould in garden sheds during winter.

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.

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Laura Bamborough from GardenBuildingsDirect offers insight: "Mould can cause significant damage to your shed and the items stored inside. It thrives in damp, poorly ventilated spaces, which can cause wood rot, rust, and structural damage."

She further recommends: "Good ventilation is key in preventing mould growth and it's important to ensure air can circulate freely. Try leaving doors or windows open to provide airflow as a starting point. But one of the most important aspects is to make sure any wood is treated so that bacteria can't grow on and inside it.," reports the Express.

"Keep the shed dry by repairing leaks, checking the roof is in good condition and sealing any gaps and cracks. Taking action early will prevent the problem from getting worse and stop any long-term damage."

GardenBuildingDirect has shared some handy tips to help you avoid mould in your shed:

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.

Moisture absorbers:

Position moisture absorbers around the shed to prevent dampness and mould. If you have a dehumidifier, you could run it in the shed or summerhouse, but ensure you have a secure and safe power source.

Rising damp:

To combat increasing dampness, a barrier must be established between the shed floor and the ground, which could be made of concrete slabs or gravel.

Insulation:

Insulation should be added to the shed to maintain a consistent temperature, helping to reduce moisture accumulation.

Plastic storage:

Consideration should also be given to how items are stored in your shed. Garden toys, cushions, and smaller items can be kept safe from the elements by sealing them in plastic containers, as plastic is naturally resistant to moisture, making it an ideal storage choice.