Organize Your Shed This Winter: Expert Tips for Homeowners

With the gardening season winding down, homeowners are encouraged to prepare their sheds for the upcoming winter months. This transition period offers an excellent opportunity to ensure that garden tools are stored properly and that the shed is organized. According to garden shed specialist Sam Jenkinson from garden building retailer Tiger, neglecting shed organization can lead to damage and costly replacements when spring returns.

Essential Cleaning and Maintenance

Before storing tools for the winter, Jenkinson emphasizes the importance of thorough cleaning. “Give your tools a good clean and check-over,” he advises. Residual soil or moisture on metal parts can lead to corrosion, so it’s essential to wipe them down thoroughly. Disinfecting blades with a mild solution also helps eliminate bacteria or fungal spores that may have accumulated during the summer months.

Once cleaned, applying a light coat of oil to metal parts can protect against rust, and a bit of linseed oil on wooden handles helps prevent cracking during cold weather. Skipping this step could be costly, as even a couple of rusty spades or shears might necessitate replacement.

Smart Storage Solutions

Jenkinson points out that one common mistake is leaving tools on the shed floor. Moisture can rise from the ground, leading to rust on metal tools and rotting of wooden ones. To mitigate this risk, he recommends hanging tools on wall racks, hooks, or pegboards, which keeps them elevated and dry. This practice not only reduces the chances of damage but also keeps the shed tidy and makes tools easier to locate when gardening season resumes.

Organization plays a vital role in maintaining tools over the winter. Utilizing sturdy shelves, crates, or plastic containers can help keep smaller tools and accessories dry and dust-free. Additionally, budget-friendly solutions such as £5 bungee cords can create storage pockets for tools, hoses, or other awkwardly shaped items. Stretching cords across walls or beams allows for efficient use of space, helping to keep tall tools like rakes or spades upright.

For larger machinery, like lawnmowers or strimmers, proper maintenance is crucial. Jenkinson advises cleaning them thoroughly and draining any leftover fuel before storage. He warns against using plastic sheets for equipment covers, as they can trap condensation. Instead, a breathable fabric allows moisture to escape while still providing protection.

Items to Remove Before Winter

There are several items that should not be left in the shed during colder months. Batteries for power tools, such as cordless drills and hedge trimmers, can lose their charge or degrade in low temperatures, significantly reducing their lifespan. Similarly, paints, glues, and finishing liquids may freeze or separate, leading to costly replacements. In some cases, containers could crack or leak, causing damage to nearby tools and materials.

Smaller items, including drill bits and lubricants, can also be affected by damp conditions. The best way to protect these items is to move them indoors to a dry, frost-free location until temperatures rise.

By taking these steps, homeowners can ensure their garden tools remain in good condition throughout the winter months, preventing unnecessary expenses when spring arrives. Preparing the shed now can save time, money, and hassle later on, making it a worthwhile investment for any gardening enthusiast.