Photo: Mervki Rep

Can a rotten shed be repaired?

Well cared for, good quality sheds are fairly robust, so should not need replacing with any frequency. Small issues – such as torn roof felt – can easily be repaired, but bigger issues such as a significant area of warped wood or an unstable base may warrant the purchase of a new shed.

somerlap.co.uk - How to tell if your shed needs replacing - Somerlap

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10 step shed health check

1. Check the roof felt

Look for holes or splits in the roof felt and check your roof felt is still waterproof. Repair if: You have spotted the hole or split quickly and the roof timbers are not damaged.

Replace your shed if: The roof timbers are already rotten.

2. Look for leaks

After rain, check the inside of your shed to make sure no water is getting in. Repair if: The leak is new and you can easily prevent it from happening again.

Replace your shed if: Over time, many leaks have caused significant damage.

3. Inspect wood for warping

Wood can become warped when it gets damp, especially if the shed is not on a level base. Repair if: Small areas are warped. In some cases warped wood can be manipulated back into shape, but it normally needs to be replaced. Replace your shed if: The warping is so significant the shed is no longer operable.

4. Survey the stability of your shed

Sheds that are rotting, warped or have fastenings that have come loose can become unstable. Test your shed is still sturdy and strong.

Repair if: You simply need to tighten screws or replace nails.

Replace your shed if: It is liable to collapse.

5. Examine your base

To protect your shed from damp and warping, it needs to be situated on a level base, raised away from soil and free from standing water. Repair if: Your shed is still in good condition. Create a new level base that keeps the shed away from water and soil. Replace your shed if: The uneven base has significantly warped your shed, or your shed has become damp and rotten from resting straight onto soil.

6. Check for damaged wood

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Numerous events can cause damage to sheds – from a tree branch falling on the roof to animals or even an attempted break in. Repair if: If a small portion of your shed has been damaged and your DIY skills are up to scratch, it may be possible to remove and patch up the damaged area.

Replace your shed if: The damage is extensive.

7. Look at your floor

Floors can often be the first part of a shed to show damage, especially if sheds have been placed straight onto the grass or soil. Check the floor isn't damp, rotting or warped. Repair if: You can replace the floor or move your existing shed to a better base. Replace your shed if: The damage from the floor has spread to the main structure of the shed.

8. Locate any loose panels

Give your shed a once over (inside and out) to see if any panels have come loose. Repair if: You have a few pieces of wood that need to be nailed down.

Replace your shed if: Your shed is no longer securely held together.

9. Inspect for rot

Wood which has been continually exposed to damp (for example if it is in direct contact with soil) may rot. Inspect your shed for patches of wood that are soft or decaying.

Repair if: Rot is contained to small areas that can be replaced.

Replace your shed if: Rot is extensive or is undermining the structure of the shed.

10. Test windows and doors

Do windows and doors operate smoothly and close completely, keeping the elements out?

Repair if: You can fill small gaps around windows with sealant.

Replace your shed if: Doors are completely warped beyond repair.

Need a new shed?

If you find your shed needs replacing, read Somerlap's guide to choosing the right one. You can also visit their site in Mark and see the complete Somerlap shed range in their large outdoor showroom.