Many people enjoy using their garages and sheds for a variety of reasons. Whether they’re used for gardening, working on classic cars or household projects, sheds can become an extension of our homes. For this reason, it’s important that you keep your shed as clean as possible and safeguard it from pests. Pests can not only be a problem in your shed, but left unchecked, certain pest populations can quickly infest your entire home.
To successfully pest-proof your shed, you must understand what attracts them in the first place. Like most living creatures, bugs and rodents require food, water and shelter to survive. Due to its dark and often humid environment, and the things found stored within them, sheds can be the perfect environment for all sorts of insects. Once they have set up home in your shed, rats and mice can find their way in, looking to feed on the insects.
Here’s how to pest-proof your shed to keep things like mice, termites and insects out.
Inspect
While quality garden sheds are built to prevent pest infestations, it’s still good practice to take preventative measures to avoid an infestation.
Check for cracks, holes and crevices both inside and outside your shed. Regardless of how minor a crack or hole looks, it can still provide a home for pests. Block all openings pests might find, and patch up any cracks within your shed.
Clean
Many of the things in your shed attract pests because they are a food source or provide a place for pests to take shelter. Take some time to thoroughly clean the interior and exterior. Remove dirt grime, dead bugs and any droppings. Regularly carry out basic cleaning and maintenance.
Clear all shelves and cupboards, especially those with cardboard boxes and uncovered/unprotected materials. While everything’s out of your shed, take this time to clean your items and inspect them for evidence of a pest infection. You should also check at the back of cupboards, the ceiling and any other place pests might be.
If you do find an infestation, look for ways to remove the particular pest. There’s a wealth of information online and there’s usually a natural, humane way to remove pests. However, for more serious infestations, it’s advisable to contact professionals who can come in and effectively free you of your pest problem.
Protect & Store your items
Once your shed is clean and free of pests, you can begin repacking your items. Containers that are non-porous with a tight-fitting lid, such as a plastic storage container are best at keeping pests out. Cardboard boxes are perfect feeding and breeding grounds for many pests. Clearing water and food sources is of course important in keeping insects and other pests out of your shed. Fix leaking pipes, remove standing water, and try to keep organic matter in sealed containers, and if possible, away from your shed.
Exterior
You should declutter around the outside of your shed. Piles of wood, bricks and compost for example, can be places for pests to find a home. Throw away what you don’t need and move other organic materials away from your shed.
Bins can act as a food source. Rather than having rubbish in your garage, invest in a quality outdoor, tall bin and keep it away from your shed. They should have a secure lid and be cleaned regularly.
You should also know what you’re bringing into your shed. Untreated timber, or any that’s not being used will attract termites, so make sure any timber you’re keeping around is treated or naturally repellent.
Pest-proofing your shed is a matter of keeping a clean and organised shed. If your shed is infested, or needs attention, taking the time to take preventative measures is worth it as a full-blown infestation can be costly.