Shed maintenance tips

Each Brighton Bike Shed is made to cope with everything the British weather can throw at it. And with a little maintenance it will last for many years. Here are a few bike shed maintenance tips, to ensure your shed continues to look great and work well.

1. Keeping your shed clear of debris

The most important shed maintenance task is preventing any debris from building up around the walls and base. If soil, leaves, ivy, litter or anything else is allowed to accumulate, this will stop the timber from breathing, create damp areas and eventually lead to rot. Use a broom or rake to clear out any debris from around your shed on a regular basis.

2. Maintaining the wood cladding

Our customers often ask whether the timber cladding on their bike shed needs to be protected with some sort of wood preserver or oil. The answer differs depending on the type of cladding:

• Larch – a highly durable timber which contains high levels of natural oils and does not require protective treatment.
• Cedar T&G and cedar slats – does not require treatment due to naturally high levels of oils and tannins. To prolong its original colour you can apply products from the Oslo or Owatrol ranges.
• Pine T&G and pine slats – has already been pressure-treated. We recommend applying Cuprinol Wood Preserver Clear every 2-3 years.

3. Living sedum roof maintenance

In order to help the roots establish and reach down into the substrate below, your sedum will need water every 2 days or so, for the first 2-3 weeks after installation. If it gets free water in the form of rain, great! But if your shed is installed during a dry period, you should give it a good soaking every other day. After the first month, the sedum roof will be largely maintenance-free. Although you may need to pick out any weeds that might appear from wind-blown seeds, just like anywhere else in your garden.

4. Felt roof maintenance

If your shed has a felt roof, you just need to check regularly for wind damage. Our guarantee covers any re-felting or repair required for all felt roofs installed by our team.

5. Maintaining your lock and hinges

Simply apply a little oil or grease regularly to any moving parts. This will help to keep them working smoothly and without squeaks!

6. Gutter and downpipe maintenance

Just like the gutters on your house, you should check your bike shed drainage periodically for any damage, leaks and blockages. Remove any blockages to ensure water is directed away from your shed rather than being allowed to drip down its walls.

These simple shed maintenance tips will pay you back

If you consider that your bike shed will last for at least 5 years, you’ll see that these simple shed maintenance tasks will take a relatively tiny amount of your time. And by giving your shed a little TLC every now and then, you can relax in the knowledge that it’s out there doing its thing; protecting your beloved bikes come rain or shine, for many years beyond the 5 year guarantee.