As the cold winter weather sweeps across the UK, garden sheds are at an increased risk of wood rot if not properly cared for.

Standing as a quiet guardian, weathered by time, our humble garden storage sheds need a little bit of extra care and attention at this time of year.

Shed expert Sam Jenkinson from Tiger Garden Buildings is urging homeowners to take action now to prevent costly repairs later.

It’s important to keep any wooden garden buildings stay dry, secure, and free from damage caused by wood rot. The cheapest and easiest way to do this is by adding an affordable layer of wood preserver.

Sam said: “One of the best ways to prevent leaking wooden shed walls is to treat them with a wood preservative. This should be carried out once a year to ensure it remains effective at keeping any fungi, dry rot, pests and wet rot at bay."

Easily available with prices from as little as £10, wood preserver forms a protective barrier that prolongs the lifespan of the wood, keeping your shed durable and weather-resistant, even in harsh outdoor conditions.

Sam added: “Before treatment, the shed must be dry, clean, and free from any signs of damage such as cracks or decay. Sanding the surface before application will also improve the absorption of the preservative, ensuring maximum protection”

While applying the wood protector can be a little labour-intensive, it is worth the effort to ensure long-lasting protection against the elements, preserving the wood's strength and appearance for years to come.

Another important measure to prevent rot is proper ventilation. Sam explains that airflow helps to control moisture, which is a primary cause of wood rot.

Sam said: "Proper ventilation removes excess moisture and reduces condensation, preventing fungal growth, which significantly increases the risk of wood rot.”

Further expert tips to keep your shed in top form this winter, include:

Check your doors and windows

Ensure your shed's door and window frames are free from gaps, cracks, and rot, and repair them to maintain waterproofing.

The expert said: “The roof of your garden building takes a real beating from the winter weather and is a hotspot for leaks – and that’s why you must look after it when moving into the colder months.”

Check your roof

Clear debris from your shed roof and inspect the edges for damage to prevent leaks, repairing shingles as needed to keep it weatherproof.

“The roof of your garden building takes a real beating from the winter weather and is a hotspot for leaks – and that’s why you must look after it when moving into the colder months,” Sam explains.

Reduce moisture inside

Sam said: “Check for damp items inside your shed such as paper, cardboard, and fabrics as these can soak moisture from the walls and floors of your shed.”

Remove damp items and consider using a dehumidifier to maintain a dry environment and prevent moisture damage.