October 23, 2017
How to Prepare Your Shed for Winter
Sheds do more than hold tools — they protect your equipment, keep your outdoor space organized, and help your backyard function smoothly throughout the year. However with changing seasons, temperature shifts, moisture, and pests, your shed needs the right care to stay in great condition.
Whether you have a Western Red Cedar shed or another outdoor structure, regular maintenance ensures it lasts for decades, performs well in every season, and stays visually beautiful.
This guide walks you through practical, easy-to-follow steps to prepare your shed for winter — and maintain it year-round.
1. Start With a Deep Clean
A seasonal reset gives you a clean slate and prevents moisture, pests, and clutter from building up.
Steps:
- Remove everything from your shed
Lay tools, pots, and supplies outside on a tarp. - Sweep thoroughly
Clear dust, cobwebs, leaves, and soil from corners and floors. - Wash your tools
- Scrub soil off shovels and trowels
- Rinse pots
- Let everything dry fully to prevent rust
2. Spruce Up the Shed Structure
A shed made of Western Red Cedar naturally resists rot and insects — but seasonal inspections still help it last longer.
What to Check:
Cracks or gaps in panels → Fill with exterior caulking
Door swelling or sticking → Sand lightly & reseal
Loose hardware → Tighten hinges, handles, and locks
Flooring wear → Apply stain or sealant for added protection
3. Keep Pests Away
Garden sheds attract bugs, rodents, and spiders — especially in colder months.
How to Protect Your Shed:
Set pest traps inside corners and along walls
Seal any gaps, especially around windows and doors
Store fertilizer and soil in sealed containers
Keep the floor debris-free to discourage nesting
4. Maintain the Exterior Area
Plants and moisture can harm your shed if left unchecked.
Seasonal Exterior Care:
Clear shrubs, grass, and plants from touching the wood
Maintain 3–5 inches (7.6–12.7 cm) of space between vegetation and the shed
Remove debris, leaves, and mulch piled against the walls
Ensure gutters (if applicable) are clear and draining properly
This reduces the risk of moisture buildup and improves airflow around the structure.
Why Western Red Cedar Sheds Perform Better Through the Seasons
Western Red Cedar naturally contains oils that protect it from insects, decay, and moisture — making it a high-performing wood for outdoor structures. It’s dimensionally stable, long-lasting, and sourced sustainably from responsibly managed North American forests.
Thinking About Upgrading Your Shed?
Explore Western Red Cedar sheds handcrafted in Canada — built for longevity, sustainability, and year-round performance.
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