How to Winterize a Shed in Maine

Halloween is behind us, and what was left of the fall leaves have already hit the ground. That bite in the air and frost on the ground can only mean one thing: winter is coming. While winters in Maine may not feature White Walkers (unless you count those half frozen Mainers who still attempt walks mid-January), the weather can be just as harsh. Take it from Game of Thrones, winter is indeed coming and it’s time to winterize your shed… before it’s too late.

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How to winterize a shed in Maine

Perhaps you’ve already shut down the pool, tackled leaf removal, and have your property *almost* ready for winter. Don’t forget your shed! Winters in Maine can do a number on storage sheds over time. A little preparation each year will save you money and headaches in the long run.

Conduct a walkaround

Is your shed’s door hinge and latch in good condition? Are there any signs of mold, rotting, or loose boards? Be sure to seal any cracks and replace broken window panes to keep rodents and other pests out of your shed. Potential repairs may be concealed under a few feet of snow, but they’ll be patiently waiting for you in a worse state come springtime.

It’s also important to check for low hanging branches or dying trees. Snow will weigh these down and there’s a chance they’ll crash down on your shed in the midst of a heavy storm.

Inspect the inside

If there are any signs of leaks or problem areas within your shed, the best time to repair them is before the snow flies. Deter mice from turning your shed into their winter home by placing traps in various places and storing bird seed in airtight containers or somewhere else altogether.

Our storage sheds feature superior pine siding and lifetime water resistant Advantech (or similar) floors… built for Maine winters!

Take inventory

Return gardening tools to their proper place and sort through odds and ends. Expired fertilizer and paint can be tossed to free up space. Tools you expect to use this winter can be stored in a prime spot to ensure easy access in a pinch.

Service winter equipment

Before you stash them in your shed, it’s a good idea to empty the fuel from your weed wacker and any other tools that you don’t plan on using this winter. A siphon or turkey baster can help with removing fuel.

If you’d rather keep your small equipment ready to go (a chainsaw could come in handy with downed trees this winter) you can instead fill your tanks with ethanol free gas. Whether you fill your tanks with ethanol free gas or remove the fuel altogether, be sure you fill or empty all the way to prevent condensation.

Tip: to check if fuel has ethanol in it, add a drop of food coloring. If it disperses into the gas it has ethanol, if it remains intact and sinks to the bottom it does not.

Was your shed built by a Maine carpenter?

Do you have a shed built to last in New England winters? Get one from shed builders that get it. Our top quality sheds are a true work of art and constructed by carpenters right here in Maine. Take a look for yourself!