Winterizing Your Shed

Getting your shed prepped for the winter might not be your favorite outdoor task, though it’s highly recommended to keep your items stored safely and prevent damage to your structure. 

The bulk of winterization should take place in the fall; however, there are still some things you can do once winter begins to keep the shed and its contents protected from the elements. Keep reading below for some expert tips and suggestions for winterizing your shed. 

Look for Leaks and Drafts

Before winter begins, thoroughly inspect the shed’s walls, roof, floor, windows, and doorways for any cracks or damage. Even small openings can allow pests, drafts, and moisture into the shed, which may cause damage to the structure and the items stored inside. Repair or patch any damages you find, and frequently re-inspect the shed throughout the season to keep it sealed shut. 

Clean and Organize

It’s also a good idea to clean the shed’s interior from top to bottom. This might include sweeping out any dirt and debris, wiping off shelves, getting rid of unwanted or broken items, and tidying up any loose tools or out-of-place items before you store them away for the winter. 

If you plan to leave the shed largely untouched for the winter season, this will help you avoid any unpleasant surprises when you open it back up in the spring. Instead, everything will be right where you expect it, and you can easily resume your outdoor activities as the weather warms back up.

But, if you use the shed to store some of your outdoor accessories like sleds, skis, and shovels, make sure to place these items near the entry so they’re easily accessible. 

Perform Pest and Rodent Control 

Mice and other small critters might seek the warm refuge of your shed during the cold winter months. If you’ve already inspected and repaired small holes or cracks, you may also want to use a rodent or insect repellant and set up traps to keep them from taking over your shed as their winter home. 

Keep the Roof Clear

After a few large blizzards, you’ll want to remove the snow that’s accumulated on the roof of your shed. Wet snow can be quite heavy, which may cause the roof to snag or crack, making it more prone to leaking. 

You can do this yourself with a roof rake for snow, or you can hire a professional to do it for you. Just be careful not to scrape too hard, or you could damage the shingles. 

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Written by Bailey Schramm in partnership with Mirage Vision outdoor TVs