How to Waterproof Your Shed: Practical Tips to Keep It Dry
Whether it’s at home or at your holiday house, there’s nothing like owning your very own shed. However, as a shed owner, it’s equally important to take good care of it. This means everything from implementing security measures to ongoing maintenance and waterproofing.
So, how exactly can you waterproof a shed? We’re here to give you some expert tips and advice. Throughout this article, we’ll cover everything from the importance of proper waterproofing to the key factors you’ll need to account for, and much more.
Let’s jump right into it!
Why Waterproofing is Essential
Australia’s weather has become noticeably more erratic and unpredictable over recent years. Over this time, we’ve seen record temperatures, major downpours and strong winds, just to name a few. As a result, waterproofing your shed is crucial.
Whether it’s bucketing down or there’s a steady build-up of moisture, both can really wreak havoc on your shed, and without the right waterproofing measures, your shed is vulnerable to:
Mould and mildew: Damp conditions can lead to the growth of mould, which damages your items and the shed itself.
Rust and corrosion: Metal components of the shed or any stored tools can rust if exposed to moisture over time.
Pest infestations: Moisture can attract pests that may seek shelter in your shed.
Structural damage: Unchecked water damage can weaken the shed’s foundation, roof, and walls, leading to costly repairs.
By waterproofing your shed, you create a protective barrier that keeps everything dry, secure, and in good condition, no matter what the weather conditions are.
What Can Go Wrong if You Don’t Waterproof Your Shed?
If you skip or overlook the issue of waterproofing, several issues can arise. These include:
Moisture damage: Water leaking into your shed can cause wood to rot, metal to rust, and stored items to deteriorate.
Increased repair costs: Without proper waterproofing, water damage can lead to costly repairs down the line, whether it’s fixing leaks or replacing rusted equipment.
Poor insulation and temperature control: Sheds without adequate waterproofing and insulation are harder to maintain a comfortable temperature, affecting any sensitive materials or equipment stored inside.
Now that we understand why waterproofing is vital, let’s take a look at the top tips for making sure your shed stays dry and protected.
5 Tips for Waterproofing Your Shed
Choose the Right Foundation
A solid foundation is, without a doubt, one of the best ways to waterproof a shed. A rebated concrete slab is often the best option (although this also depends on the type of shed you own). It features a step or lowered edge that ensures water flows away from the structure, which then helps to keep the interior dry.
If you’re buying a prefabricated shed, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for the best foundation setup.
Seal the Gaps with Silicone
After your shed is built, don’t forget to seal the base with silicone sealant. Using the right sealant will allow you to fill gaps where moisture could enter.
Make sure to seal from the inside of the shed to improve drainage and avoid trapping water inside. This extra layer of protection ensures your shed stays dry, even during the wettest months.
Use Waterproof Membrane Systems
For an added layer of waterproofing, consider applying a liquid-applied membrane system to the walls and roof of your shed.
Polyurethane membranes, for example, are tough, chemical-resistant, and UV-resistant, making them perfect for Australia’s weather conditions. These membranes create a flexible, seamless barrier that keeps moisture out and protects your shed from the elements.
Insulate Your Shed
Insulation does more than just regulate temperature. It also helps prevent moisture build-up.
Fibreglass insulation with reflective foil can be applied to walls and ceilings to keep the shed dry. The reflective foil helps control the internal temperature while the fibreglass acts as a moisture barrier.
Maintain Your Shed’s Roof and Gutters
The roof of your shed is one of the most vulnerable areas for leaks. So always make sure that the roof is covered with a durable waterproof coating and check it regularly for any damage.
Additionally, install gutters to direct rainwater away from the shed’s foundation and prevent leaks. Don’t forget to inspect the gutters, as well as check the interior ceiling for any signs of water-related damage.
By following these tips and choosing the right products, you can effectively waterproof your shed, protect your belongings and make sure that your shed stays in excellent condition. Don’t wait for water damage to become a problem – invest in waterproofing solutions now!
Turn to Elite Garages for the Best Sheds on the Australian Market
Looking for a new shed? At FBD Elite Garages, we’re proud to offer a wide range of high-quality, Australian-made sheds that are designed to last. Whether you’re looking for a storage unit or an American barn, we can help you to find a shed that suits your needs to a tee.
Here are some of the many different sheds that we can install:
Let’s dive a little deeper into the benefits of all three!
American Barns
Incredibly versatile, these barns can be used to store anything from farming equipment and caravans to creating your dream art or music studio. The high central clearance is also great for larger items (such as boats or horses), and the option to add a mezzanine floor helps with extra storage or even fitting it out as a loft-style workspace.
Want to personalise your barn? Add a classic apex window, or go modern with remote-controlled roller doors. Whatever your preference, we’re here to help you design a structure that fits your needs perfectly.
Need reliable sheds in Geelong, Taylors Lakes , Wollert, Werribee, Macedon, or Epping? The Elite Garages team is always ready to lend a helping hand! Contact us now to learn more.
Storage Units
Whether you’re looking for a solution for a home, farm, or business, these storage units are the perfect way to protect valuable items. We pride ourselves on offering high-quality Shed Safe accredited structures, as well as custom-designed units to match a variety of different requirements. Need help with building permits or a concrete slab? No problem—our team provides end-to-end support to make the process smooth and hassle-free.
As experienced installers, we guarantee that your new unit will meet the highest industry standards.
Buying New? Always Go with a Safe Shed Accredited Product
When purchasing a new shed, make sure it’s from a reputable supplier. This way, you can rest assured that the shed adheres to Australian standards for durability, safety, and waterproofing.
Safe Shed products are designed for long-lasting performance, providing you with a waterproof, weather-resistant, and secure space for years to come.
