Firstly, don’t leave your shed walls leaking water! Instead, find out what you can do to stop it. Our guidance includes an example of where to place a shed, including the ideal location with a base, to help prevent dampness from rising from the ground.
Waterproofing shed walls is usually not a necessity when acquiring a new shed. Most sheds have guarantees and warranties that promise a waterproof structure for several years. However, your shed will be facing years of exposure to wind and rain, which can lead to water leaking inside the shed walls. So, how can you stop this?
Table of contents
- How can you waterproof shed walls?
- Why should you waterproof your shed walls?
- What can prevent the need to waterproof shed walls?
- Is there anything else I can do to take care of my shed?
How do I waterproof my shed walls?
“How do I waterproof my shed walls?” we hear you ask. Well, you can waterproof shed walls in several ways, depending on the source of water ingress.
Issue one: Water entering the shed from one side
If water is coming into the shed from a single exposed side, here are three ways you can deal with this issue:
- Water-resistant shiplap
- Cladding
- Wood shingles
Using cost-effective water-resistant shiplap or cladding can be an effective solution to address the area. While it may not enhance the shed’s appearance, it will significantly improve its waterproofing. For a more appealing design, you can consider using wood shingles.
Issue two: Damp and musty shed after rain
This problem is solvable with timber treatment, which not only refreshes the shed’s colour but also provides a water-repellent coating.
However, it’s important to note this will not prevent water from entering through cracks and splits in the timber. Nonetheless, it will stop the shed’s interior from becoming damp and musty after a rainy day.
Issue three: Water entering the shed from all sides
If your shed’s overall build has suffered due to age or inefficiency, two factors to consider are:
- The quality of the timber; and
- the shed’s construction.
If the water is entering the shed continuously from all sides via cracks and splits, replace it as soon as possible. You may think it’s cost-effective to keep your old shed maintained and repaired over time, but these costs can become constant and grow to be more expensive than investing in the new shed.
To ensure your new shed lasts, stretching your budget slightly for a metal shed can provide a more durable and permanent solution. Metal sheds require less maintenance than wooden sheds and are well-equipped to withstand harsh weather.
Reasons you may need to waterproof your shed walls
If your shed isn’t sheltered by trees, another building or similar, it will be exposed to wind-driven rain. This rain can penetrate the walls, leading to moisture entering the shed. This can worsen if the shed is made from poor-quality timber, as evidenced by:
- Inconsistent grain
- Knots in the wood
- Insufficient overlap in tongue and groove boards
Each of these features mentioned above can compromise shed waterproofing. Your shed’s timber can also be at risk of shrinking if not effectively protected, further increasing the risk of water infiltration. It’s why shed waterproofing is so vital.
What can I do so that I don’t need to waterproof my shed walls?
To minimize water ingress and the need for waterproofing a shed, consider these steps:
Assess the land before placing your shed. Avoid sitting the shed at the bottom of sloped or hilly gardens, as water tends to flow down these areas. Constant exposure to this water can lead to permanently wet and boggy ground during the winter, increasing the risk of dampness.
Avoid placing the shed on soft ground, as it can cause the shed to sink into damp soil, affecting its stability. Instead, install the shed in an ideal location or dig a small path where the building will sit, line it with a damp-proof membrane, and place concrete slabs for a more secure base.
Apply timber treatment to maintain the shed’s appearance and enhance water repellent. Some wood treatments also provide colour protection.
Is there anything else I can do to take care of my shed?
Indeed there is! We have more advice dedicated to shed maintenance, including our 10 tips to ensure your shed is well-maintained over its years of use.
Alternatively, if you need a new or replacement shed, we also have guides for measuring a shed and building a shed base. Check them out to prepare well before your shed arrives.
Speaking of new sheds, did you know we also have a shed buyer’s guide? This can help you learn more about the diverse types of sheds so you can make an informed decision before you purchase a new one.
Was this guide useful?
Mentioned in this project guide:
