Just like your house, a shed represents a major investment; it also makes a huge visual statement. So here are a couple of simple rules to help you maintain your smaller steel buildings.

When your residential shed is being constructed, carefully remove all construction debris such as filings, abrasive dust and swarf must with a soft bristle brush, followed by a careful rinse. By being delicate with your shed now, you reduce the risk of scuffing of the surface, and you will get more from your shed in the long run.

You can also enhance the life of your steel building by washing it every once in a while. Corrosion of steel products can be caused by exposure to such things as fertilizers, chemicals, ash or moisture retention agents such as clay and dissimilar metals. Other areas of your shed that are sheltered from natural rainfall, risk building-up dust and dirt; this in combination with condensation, may also accelerate corrosion.

Washing your shed doesn’t have to be a menial task, you can simply incorporate it into your everyday routine. Spray your garage with the hose whilst you wash your car or when you are watering the gardening. Use a mild solution of natural soap, and rinse thoroughly afterwards, ensuring all soap residue is removed. This shed-cleaning process is vitally important if you live in an area where your property is exposed to coastal sea spray or industrial pollutants, and we recommend you do this every three (3) months; six (6) months for those of you in other areas.

It is important to keep garden beds and moisture away from your building’s foundation to avoid shrinkage, expansion and / or cracking.

Remember to check with your local council about water restrictions before cleaning your shed.

By investing a little time and effort into your new shed from the beginning, the more durable and aesthetically pleasing your shed will stay.