Our sheds often sit at the bottom of the garden, generally forgotten, but have you ever wondered if neglecting it could be costing you?

Many of us will only head into the shed when we're looking for dusty gardening tools or dragging out our disused bikes.

However, a team of experts has warned us that not properly looking after our sheds could end up costing us hundreds of pounds.

Our sheds are out in the elements - all year round - and in all weathers.

In other words, maintaining our sheds is crucial so that they last as long as possible. 

To help us make the most of ours, garden shed expert Sam Jenkinson, from garden building retailer Tiger has broken down exactly what happens to your garden shed if you neglect basic upkeep.  

Poor Insulation 

The expert warned that if you are storing furniture, electronics or other valuables inside your garden shed, poor insulation can be very costly.

If your shed doesn't have any insulation, you'll notice that the temperature inside can fluctuate rapidly depending on the temperature outside.

Sam explained that insulation can help balance the temperature since it retains heat longer during the winter and cold air in the summer.  

"Without insulation, items stored inside will be vulnerable to moisture, which could lead to metal tools rusting, wood furniture warping, paper turning soggy and damage to electrical equipment," according to the gardening shed pro.

Sam continued: "Depending on the size, it can cost from £99 to insulate your shed using foil insulation.

"However, if left without insulation, it could cost hundreds to replace ruined or damaged items that have been stored inside. Especially expensive items such as power tool batteries".  

Broken or Damaged Windows 

Accidents happen especially when you have a busy garden with kids playing.

Things like flying footballs and falling tree branches can cause shed windows to break which can be expensive to repair.

The expert also pointed out that if you’ve had your shed for a long time, the wood around the window can wear and crack, causing gaps to appear. 

One option is to repair broken windows yourself.

Sam explained that glass or toughened glass windows provide increased durability and insulation.

In the future, this could cause you fewer problems compared to cheaper, lightweight alternatives such as Perspex.  

The Tiger expert added that this can cost from £5 for a new window, or you can get a sealant for £10 to close any gaps.

Sam commented: "However, if left damaged, your shed won’t be completely weatherproof, and this could cause further problems as any rainwater that enters through the broken window could potentially damage items stored in the shed.

"If you have expensive items inside such as electrical equipment, they could cost hundreds to be replaced". 

Damaged Boards   

If you have a damaged shed panel, floor or roof board, Sam urges how important it is to replace it as soon as possible.

"If you cannot replace it straight away, using a wood filler to patch any cracks or holes can be a temporary fix," the expert explained.

The pro continued: "If left, it could have an impact on your shed’s overall sturdiness, weather-resistance and security.

"The average cost of replacing a board is between £5-£20, however, if left it can lead to damp or rot which could spread to the rest of the garden building’s timber.

"This means that rather than just needing to replace one board, you now need to replace a lot more which could set you back hundreds depending on how far it’s spread".  

Weather Damage 

Weather can significantly affect your shed, through prolonged exposure to sunlight, rain, wind and snow, according to Sam.

The expert added that unless you have a pressure-treated shed, it’s important to treat your garden building with a wood preserver at least once a year.

He urged people to start from when first put it up to help protect and diminish any damage caused by the elements. 

The pro then explained that a preserver will cost you £25.99 but he insisted that ultimately saves money in the long run.

This is because it will prolong the shed’s lifespan, reducing the need for repairs or replacement.

Sam warned that if it is left untreated, your shed could be prone to damp, mould and rot which could cost you hundreds to repair or replace.  

Damaged Roof 

The roof of your shed takes a beating from the elements and is a common source of damp or hotspot for leaks.

Check the felt for signs of wear and tear at least once a year, paying close attention to the edges and ridge line.

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A roof can wear with age and you may have cracks in the roof boards, or roofing felt or shingles that need to be replaced.  

It’s pretty easy to replace or repair roofing felt, as you can repair shingles with sealant or replace damaged ones.

The average cost of a shed roof repair is £2-£15 per square metre, however, if left damaged, it can cause damp, or turn completely rotten, turning what was once a small issue into a full-scale shed roof replacement that could cost hundreds.