Winterizing a Shed or Shed Cabin

Winter will soon be upon us and it’s time to think about winterizing a shed or shed cabin. It’s one of those chores that easily slip the mind, but come spring it’s something we wish we had done. With just a little time and effort, you’ll have your shed ready for winter.

Winterizing a Shed or Shed Cabin In 5 Easy Steps

Getting your shed or shed cabin ready for winter is probably less labor-intensive, and less expensive than you think. Follow these five simple steps for winterizing a shed or shed cabin:

1.) Clear It and Clean It

Over the course of the year dust, cobwebs, and rodent droppings can infiltrate your shed. Tools can get out of place, pots can be broken, and potting spoil spilled. In other words, your shed can get messy throughout the spring, summer, and fall. Start your winterizing by getting the broom and dustpan out and giving your shed floor a thorough sweeping. Then clean all of your gardening tools and put them in their proper locations. Finally, remove all of the leaves and grass from your mower and trimmer, empty them of oil and gas, and cover them with a tarp to protect them from dust and moisture.

2.) Secure All Doors and Windows

After enduring several winters, weatherstripping can become cracked and ineffective. Replace as necessary. Be sure to caulk around window frames and doors to keep out moisture and drafts. To combat the low temperatures of an Illinois and Midwest winter, don’t use a latex caulk; use a high-performance caulk that has a rubber or silicone base. It won’t freeze like latex and it will withstand a harsh winter. Also, lubricate those door hinges so they’ll function year-round.

3.) Clean Out Gutters and Downspouts

If your shed or shed house has a gutter system, climb up and check out the inside. An abundance of leaves from the fall can build up, as well as other debris that can clog up gutters and downspouts. Leaving gutters clogged can lead to overflowing water, which can damage siding materials, landscapes, and the garden you tended in the summer.

4.) Inspect and Repair the Interior and Exterior

Throughout its lifetime, your shed’s interior and exterior can become worn, and even damaged. It’s a good idea in the fall to take a close look and see if there are holes or crevices that have developed and need tending to. If you notice any, use caulk to fill them in, which will keep pests and the elements from doing further damage. Also, paint the exterior with waterproof paint, as needed. While you’re working on the outside, remove any growth that has developed.

5.) Don’t Forget the Roof

It’s not as visible to you, but your shed’s roof needs extra attention to protect it from the coming winter. Strong winter winds out of the north and the accompanying snow can wreak havoc on a roof. Clean and rustproof metal roofs. For shingled roofs, replace loose shingles and repair those that are broken. If you have a wooden roof, examine it for warping and cracked panels. Replace them as necessary. Finally, trim any overhanging branches that can damage your shed when they fall from heavy ice and snow.

Use the Countryside Barns “Shed Designer” to design the perfect shed for your property. Our showroom is also staffed by experts that can answer all of your questions on sheds and shed cabins.