Why You Should Ventilate Your Shed & 6 Ways to Ventilate It

Have you ever walked into your shed, only to immediately step back from the onslaught of strong chemical smells? In a hot, stuffy shed, that smell can be suffocating.

If that sounds like your shed, then it is time to look into ventilation options. Proper ventilation is essential for both the longevity of your shed and the items stored in it.

Why Does Your Shed Need Good Ventilation?

Without adequate ventilation, chemical fumes from stored items can pose a severe health concern. Also, without proper ventilation, rust, mold, and mildew may start to grow, which will damage all of your belongings and even your shed.

What’s more: your shed will be far more comfortable to work in if it’s adequately vented. In the summer, ventilation will help circulate excessive heat buildup that can cause significant damage to the materials stored in the shed; and in the winter, vents can help exchange the moist, stale air.

Additionally, if the temperature drops and then warms back up several times throughout the winter season, moisture begins to build up, which can cause mold and mildew to start to form.

6 Ways to Ventilate Your Shed

Now that you know why you need to have a well-ventilated shed, let’s talk about the how. Here are six options for ventilating your shed.

1. Wall Vent

Wall vents are quick and easy to install, as well as effective for ventilation in a small space. Simply cut a hole in the wall the size of the vent, install the vent, and then caulk to seal up leaks around it.

Wall vents are a passive ventilation solution and not ideal for climates that have major temperature changes (like we do in Maine).

Another thing to look out for with simple wall vents? Make sure that the connecting vent screen doesn’t become damaged so bugs and other creatures can’t get into your shed.

2. Ridge Vent

The ridge style vent is suitable for high peaked roofs and sheds with attic areas. The ridge vent is located at the peak of the roof, allowing heat to be released from the ceiling.

This system is best for two-story sheds, as it relies on rising hot air to effectively ventilate the space.

3. Windows

If your shed doesn’t have any windows, then consider installing some for ventilation purposes, as well as lighting.

4. Venting Skylight

Similarly, the venting skylight is an excellent option if you need both ventilation and light.

Installing the skylight will give you extra natural light in your shed, along with the ability to open for simple ventilation from the ceiling.

5. Turbines

Turbines are great for climates that have high humidity, causing moisture buildup. Similar to ridge vents, this vent sits on top of the roof near the peak, allowing fumes and stale air to escape through the ceiling.

If you need ventilation only occasionally (such as when you’re working inside the shed), a simple ceiling fan will also work.

6. Electric Fan Vent

With this type of vent, you’ll have more control over your ventilation. An electric fan will pull all of the fumes out of your shed, leaving a safe environment to work. These types of exhaust fans can stay on non-stop or used as needed.

As with many shed options, the type of ventilation you choose is entirely up to your needs and your climate. Choose one of the six options from above, and also consider the amount of time you spend in your shed and how much additional ventilation you need.

And for the perfect outdoor shed to add to your Maine backyard, don’t forget to check out our great selection!