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A garden structure can be an excellent addition to your outdoor living space, providing you with extra storage, a work area, or a quiet retreat. However, like any outdoor item, it requires regular maintenance to keep it looking its best and to ensure it lasts as long as possible.
Here are some tips on how to maintain your garden structure and avoid some common issues that may arise over time.
Painting & Varnishing
All of our garden structures are fully pressure treated and come with a 10-year anti-rot guarantee. However, we advise that you protect your building by using a weatherproof preservative or stain within eight weeks of installation. Applying a weatherproof preservative or stain to your structure can help protect it from weather damage, including rain, wind, and sunlight.
Knots & Splits
Over time, you may notice that the odd knot may fall out, or a small split in the grain may appear. This process is only natural due to the properties of timber and is not considered a defect. However, if you want to maintain the aesthetic of your garden structure, you can use a natural-colored wood filler to fill in these spots. We highly recommend the “Ronseal Multi-Purpose Wood Filler,” as it’s designed to fill in knots, cracks, and holes in your timber.
Door Bolts
Once your garden structure has settled, the door bolt may become harder to open. If this happens, you will need to remove a couple of the screws and realign the bolt. Always fasten them back tightly to ensure the bolt remains in place.
Surface Salts
All our timber is pressure treated, which means that some liquid may evaporate and leave deposits of salt. This is visible as greeny-blue speckles, which is easily mistaken for mould. However, this can be removed with light sanding and washing.
Insulating
If you’re thinking of insulating your garden structure, it’s essential to keep our breathable membrane on the walls and roof. This membrane helps prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to rot and other issues.
Timber Characteristics
Timber is subject to environmental changes such as shrinkage in warm/hot weather and expansion in damp/wet weather. This is not a defect but a natural characteristic of wood and is not covered by the timber guarantee. However, understanding these characteristics can help you better maintain your garden structure.
Window Sealing
It may be necessary to reseal the windows with a clear, weatherproof silicone where the acrylic meets the timber trim once the shed has settled. This will help prevent water from getting into your garden structure.
Guttering
Installing guttering is a must for any outside building, including your garden structure. Guttering allows you to direct the water towards a drain or water butt, preventing any potential water damage to your structure.
In conclusion, by following these maintenance tips, you can help ensure your garden structure lasts for many years to come. By protecting it from the elements, filling in any knots or splits, and installing guttering, you can enjoy your outdoor space to the fullest. Remember, while timber does have its natural characteristics, by properly maintaining your garden structure, you can prevent any potential issues from arising.
