On average, in the UK we spend over £7.7 billion per year on lawns, gardens, and associated supplies. Gardening, however, can be a less than satisfying hobby, if your garden shed turns into an eyesore. With a bit of preventative maintenance, it is very possible to keep your garden shed looking like new.
Garden shed maintenance can be as easy as developing a simple inspection plan, that can be used throughout the year. Detailed maintenance plans should include: inspection, general cleaning, and an annual content inventory. Generally speaking, the inspection should include a visual check of structural integrity, routine maintenance, and general spring clean-up. Comprehensive inspections should also include the interior, as well as the exterior of the shed.
Spring is a great time to start your cleaning and inspection activities. Begin your inspection by working on the inside of the shed. Completely remove all of the contents, and inventory as appropriate. At this phase of the inspection, look for rodents, clean flooring, and damaged wood. Examine doors, windows, and locks, for proper serviceability. Remove cobwebs, dust, and other unwanted accumulations as applicable.
While the interior of the shed is empty, conduct the exterior portion of your inspection. Inspect the structure for evidence of bees, wasps, or any other unwanted nesting activity. Rodents can cause severe damage to your shed, if left unattended. Plan ahead, and take appropriate action if necessary. Check inside and out, for evidence of mould, mildew, or damaged paint. Repair as appropriate.
Mould and mildew accumulation can be a common occurrence on storage sheds. Mould may not be present at the time of inspection, but a quick exterior cleaning will prevent it from forming. Use an appropriate cleansing solution to perform routine cleaning of the sheds exterior. Painted wood, or aluminium sheds can be cleaned with a bleach and water solution. Use three-quarter cups of bleach, per five litres of water as your mixture. If the shed has vinyl siding, use 3 cups of vinegar, to 7 cups of water as your cleaning solution. For faster drying, be sure to perform the shed wash on a dry and sunny day.
Once the exterior has been cleaned and inspected, focus on the interior. Inspect shelving units, the roof area, and the general condition of the walls and floor. If all are in good order, begin a systematic reorganization of the sheds contents. Organize the contents, focusing on usability, and functionality. A well-organized storage area will help in maintaining a safe, efficient, and functional area.
Garden shed maintenance should serve you well, in maintaining your sheds new-like appearance. If the cleaning tasks are diligently performed, you'll spend more time gardening, and less time worrying about costly and unexpected shed repairs.
For further details on landscape design, fencing and general gardening in birmingham, please visit Genuine Home Services, who have a great deal of knowledge in paving, sheds and tree surgery.