Gardeners urged to check sheds for one thing or face 'serious damage'

People are being urged to inspect their garden sheds for signs of mould and damp before it's too late. The outdoor specialists at GardenBuildingsDirect have released a useful guide on how to prevent annoying mould spores from invading your sheds and summerhouses.

Mould is infamous for flourishing in the colder, damper winter months when condensation and lack of airflow can exacerbate the situation. If you notice discoloured patches on interior walls and ceilings or detect a musty smell, you might be dealing with a mould issue.

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Other warning signs include damp spots, stains and peeling paint. Laura Bamborough, from GardenBuildingsDirect, cautions: "Mould can cause significant damage to your shed and the items stored inside. It thrives in damp, poorly ventilated spaces, which can lead to wood rot, rust, and structural damage."

She continues: "Good ventilation is crucial 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."

Laura advises: "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.", reports the Mirror.

Tips to combat mould in the shed include: Enhancing ventilation - A proper airflow can keep mould at bay.

Open windows or fit vents to reduce humidity levels.

Roof inspections

Regularly inspect the roof to prevent leaks. Shed roofs are exposed to harsh weather conditions, so it's vital to regularly check for any signs of damage or missing materials.

If there are issues, you might be able to patch them up; otherwise, your shed may need a new roof, according to the Express.

Protect the shed.

Treating your shed will help protect it from the weather, wood rot, mould and algae. Choose the preservative that suits you best and ensure you apply it annually to keep the outdoor building in good condition.

Dry items before storing

Ensure items are dry when you store them to avoid mouldy spots. Keeping tools dry and disinfected, as well as other outdoor items, will help prevent mould formation.

Prevent leaks

Regularly check your shed for any cracks or gaps. To fix these, use a sealant or apply waterproofing to the joints.

Moisture absorbers.

Place moisture absorbers around your shed to ward off 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 stop rising damp, a barrier needs to be built between the shed floor and the ground. This could be concrete slabs or gravel.

Insulation

Add insulation to your shed to maintain a consistent temperature. This will help limit moisture build-up.

Plastic storage

Think about how you keep items in your shed. Storing garden toys, cushions and smaller items in plastic containers will shield them from the weather.

Plastic is resistant to moisture, making it a clear choice for storage.