Why does my shed smell musty?

If you pack up several moist items in the shed and then leave them for months without attention, they're much more prone than dry materials to collect mold in the damp, dark environment that results. Not only should you check for moisture before storing, you should leave room for air flow during all storage needs.

a-shed.com - Tips for Avoiding Mold and Mildew in Sheds

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For those who have owned a home for any reasonable period of time, the prevention of mold and mildew are important concerns. These issues can lead to everything from poor odors to major health concerns in humans and pets alike, which is why it’s so important that they’re kept away from structures and dwellings. At A-Shed USA, we’ll help you ensure mold and mildew are not risks for your storage shed, whether you’re purchasing the J-Series, Ranch style, Barn style or one of our other options. Here are some basic tips and areas to consider when confirming that mold growth is not concern for your shed.

Proper Construction and Ventilation

The primary line of defense against mold and mildew in a shed? Proper construction and manufacturing guidelines being followed, something you can always count on with our pros. When sheds are built properly, including their ventilation areas, they completely avoid the risks that tend to lead to mold growth. When it comes to vents, you’ll want a ridge vent in the shed’s roof. You’ll also have gable vents that allow air to pass through without allowing moisture in or out. In addition, you may consider vents in the soffit under the shed’s eaves, allowing cooler air to get into the shed and pushing warmer air out. Those who have had moisture issues in the shed should consider vapor barriers, which will help prevent pooling water that can harbor mold.

Storage and Moisture

Moisture is a must for the formation of mold, and you should be careful about it when storing items in the shed, particularly for long-term storage. If you pack up several moist items in the shed and then leave them for months without attention, they’re much more prone than dry materials to collect mold in the damp, dark environment that results. Not only should you check for moisture before storing, you should leave room for air flow during all storage needs.

Humidity

Another moisture-related area is humidity, which should be between 40 and 50 percent in most standard rooms. If your shed has humidity levels significantly higher than this, something you can check using a cheap hygrometer you can buy at any home improvement store, it will be at much greater risk for mold formation. In these cases, run a dehumidifier and consider fans on low settings to keep the air moving.

Upkeep and Maintenance

Another regular activity that will help prevent mold is maintaining certain areas of the shed. Consider painting the exterior of the shed with mildew-resistant coating, for instance, and check the shingles on its roof for moss buildup that might signal mold in the future. Also check the base of the shed to ensure moisture isn’t sneaking in through cracks or issues in the foundation. For more on how to prevent mold or mildew in your shed, or to learn about any of our custom sheds, garages or other structures, speak to the staff at A-Shed USA today.