Ready to Protect Your Garden Building This Autumn and Winter?
25 November 2024
Category: General

As the days grow shorter and the temperature has seriously dropped, it’s time to protect and maintain your garden building through the British autumn and winter.
Whether you own a summerhouse, shed, or an Outdoor Room, keeping it in top condition during the colder months will ensure that your investment lasts for years to come.
Read on for our top tips…
1. Inspect and Maintain the Roof
The roof is your garden building’s first line of defence against the elements, so start by giving it a thorough check:
- Look for cracks, lifted felt shingles, or holes that could allow water ingress.
- Check for areas where branches may have rubbed against the roof, causing wear and tear.
- Cut back any overhanging branches to prevent damage from friction or falling debris.
2. Trim Surrounding Vegetation
Keep your building’s surroundings clear:
- Cut back bushes or plants growing close to the structure. This helps avoid water being trapped against the walls, which can cause dampness and reduce ventilation.
- Ensure the ground around the building isn’t higher than the floor level. Damp soil pressed against the floor can lead to significant issues over time.
3. Check Window Sealants
Windows are a common area for water ingress:
- Inspect the sealant around the frames for gaps or cracks and reapply as necessary. This simple step can prevent water from seeping inside and causing damage.
4. Lubricate Locks and Hinges
Cold weather can make locks and hinges stiff or prone to rust.
- Use a high-quality lubricant to keep them functioning smoothly. A little maintenance now can prevent bigger issues later.
5. Ventilate Your Building
Even when you’re not using your garden building, it’s important to keep the air circulating:
- Open the door periodically to allow fresh air in and prevent dampness caused by trapped moisture.
- Avoid storing wet gardening tools, soil, or other items inside, as they can raise the moisture levels and contribute to damp or mould.
6. Protect the Exterior
Adding a layer of protection to your garden building can make all the difference in harsher weather:
- Use a high-quality spirit-based preservative, such as the products offered by Olympian Garden Buildings. These help repel water and provide excellent protection.
- Other options like Bedec Barn Paint, Sikkens, or Saddolin also offer long-lasting defence. Avoid cheaper products, as they may not perform as well or last as long.
7. Clear the Gutters
If your garden building has gutters, ensure they are clear of debris to allow water to flow away from the structure.
- If it doesn’t have gutters, consider adding them. They’re a simple yet effective way to manage water runoff and keep the building dry.
8. Winter-Proof Your Outdoor Furniture
If you have outdoor furniture stored in or around your garden building, make sure it’s covered with waterproof furniture covers or stored inside the building during winter.
- Keeping furniture dry will protect it from mould and rust, preserving its lifespan for the next year.
9. Regular Inspections
Finally, don’t forget to conduct regular checks throughout autumn and winter. Heavy rain, frost, and snow can lead to issues if left unnoticed. By keeping an eye on your building and performing small maintenance tasks as needed, you can prevent more significant problems from developing.
Final Thoughts
By taking these preventative measures, you’ll keep your garden building looking great and performing well throughout autumn and winter. A little preparation now can save you time, money, and effort in the long run, ensuring your garden retreat remains a cosy and functional space no matter the season.
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www.olympiangardenbuildings.co.uk
Find us: Moston Road, Sandbach, CW11 3JA.
Showroom Hours:
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Saturday: 10.30am – 3pm
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hello@olympiangardenbuildings.co.uk
01270 759 775