Devon winters are brutal on sheds. High rainfall, persistent damp, and strong winds from the coast. A few hours of prep now saves you finding a rotting wreck in spring.
The Autumn Shed Checklist
1. Clear and Inspect
Start by emptying it (or at least moving things to see the floor and walls).
Look for:
- Rot in floor or walls
- Daylight through gaps
- Mouse droppings
- Damp patches
- Rust on hinges and fittings
Check outside:
- Condition of roofing felt
- Gaps around door and windows
- Peeling paint or treatment
- Vegetation growing against walls
Roof and Drainage
Felt Condition
Roofing felt typically lasts 10-15 years. Check for:
- Cracks or splits
- Areas lifting at edges
- Moss and debris holding moisture
- Saggy areas (sign of rot underneath)
Quick fix: Small cracks can be patched with roof sealant. For anything more, replace the felt before winter.
Clear Debris
Remove leaves and moss from the roof. They hold moisture against the felt, accelerating rot.
Check Drainage
Water should run away from the shed:
- Clear gutters if fitted
- Check ground slopes away from base
- Clear any blocked drainage channels
- Consider a gravel strip around the base
Treating the Exterior
When to Treat
Treat with preservative or paint every 2-3 years minimum. Devon's wet climate means annual treatment is better.
Best time: Late autumn - wood is dry but before the worst weather.
Choosing Treatment
| Type | Protection | Lifespan | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wood preservative | Basic | 1-2 years | Pressure-treated sheds |
| Fence/shed treatment | Good | 2-3 years | Most sheds |
| Exterior paint | Best | 3-5 years | Sheds in exposed spots |
My recommendation: Cuprinol or Ronseal shed & fence treatment. Brush it on generously, especially end grain.
Application Tips
- Clean the shed first (brush off dirt, moss)
- Let it dry completely
- Apply on a dry day (check forecast for 24 hours)
- Do two coats, especially on south-facing sides
- Pay extra attention to the bottom 30cm
Sealing Gaps
Door and Windows
Check for gaps around:
- Door frame (light visible = draught = moisture)
- Window frames
- Where roof meets walls
Fix with:
- Foam strips for door edges
- Exterior sealant for frame gaps
- New draught excluder brush at bottom of door
Wall Gaps
Gaps between boards are normal on some sheds but let in weather.
Options:
- Exterior wood filler for small gaps
- Fillet strips nailed over joints
- Exterior sealant for larger gaps
Floor Care
Raise Items Off the Floor
Damp rises from concrete bases. Keep things on shelves or pallets.
Check for Rot
Prod the floor with a screwdriver, especially near the door. Soft spots mean rot.
Prevention:
- Ensure base has drainage
- Don't let water pool at entrance
- Consider a boot scraper mat
Winter Storage Tips
What to Bring Inside
- Liquids that can freeze (paint, treatments)
- Petrol/fuel (safety risk)
- Anything moisture-sensitive (seeds, fertiliser)
- Electrical items (lawnmower battery, chargers)
Protect What Stays
- Wrap metal tools in oily cloth
- Raise cushions off floor
- Cover upholstered items
- Use silica gel packets in closed containers
Pest Prevention
- Remove food sources (bird seed, grass seed)
- Block gaps at floor level with wire wool
- Mouse traps if you've had problems before
- Keep the floor clear so pests can't hide
Security
Sheds get broken into more in winter (darker evenings).
Quick improvements:
- Heavy-duty padlock
- Hasps screwed with coach bolts (can't be unscrewed)
- Security marking on tools
- Don't store bikes/expensive tools if possible
- Prickly plants around the shed
The 30-Minute Maintenance Check
If you're short on time, at least do this:
- ✅ Clear roof debris
- ✅ Check felt for damage
- ✅ Look for obvious rot
- ✅ Tighten door hinges and lock
- ✅ Apply treatment to the worst areas
- ✅ Block any gaps at ground level
- ✅ Raise items off the floor
When to Replace vs Repair
Repair if:
- Isolated rot spots
- General condition is sound
- Frame is solid
- Problems are cosmetic
Replace if:
- Floor is spongy throughout
- Frame is twisting
- Roof structure is failing
- Repairs would cost more than 50% of replacement
Shed needs more than you can manage? I do shed repairs, felt replacement, and treatment across Exeter. Call 01392 964094 or get a quote.
Sam Hembury
Sam is the founder of Hembury Contracting, providing professional handyman services across Exeter and Devon. With years of experience in property maintenance, he shares practical tips to help homeowners tackle common tasks.