Your shed isn’t just a storage space. For many homeowners, it's an important part of maintaining an organized and aesthetically appealing outdoor space.
But like most things, sheds don't last forever – especially low-budget sheds that lack quality construction and durability.
Wondering if it's time for a shed upgrade? The following info will help you spot the key signs of an aging shed and explore the benefits of investing in a new Amish shed.
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1. Leaks, Rot, and Structural Damage
Why is winter a great time to secure your spot in the shed-buying queue?
Signs of damage are one of the biggest red flags of an aging shed. Common issues include:
- Leaky Roofs. Water getting inside a garden shed doesn’t just damage the structure. It can also damage or destroy the items that are stored inside. A leaky roof often lead to soggy shed floorboards and walls, which weakens shed integrity over time.
- Rotting Wood. If your shed smells like mildew or the wood is discolored and crumbling, you likely have rot caused by prolonged exposure to moisture.
- Foundation Issues. Is your shed leaning to one side? A tilted shed could indicate foundation issues, which can be a safety hazard for anyone accessing the shed. A bad foundation can affect overall structural integrity.
Making shed repairs to a structure that has significant damage can be expensive and time-consuming. In this situation, upgrading to a new shed might make more sense.
2. Outdated Appearance
Even if your shed functionally “works,” the look of it might tell a different story!
Cracked siding, peeling paint, warped doors, and broken windows can make your shed an eyesore in an otherwise beautiful space.
If you spend time creating a well-maintained outdoor space, an unsightly aged shed could detract from all your hard work.
Replacing your shed with a new, quality-built Amish shed will not only fix any functionality issues but also provide aesthetic upgrades. You can pick from many unique shed styles. You can also design your shed to match your property. This includes choosing the shed material, roofline, and more.
3. Pest Infestation
If your shed has become home to termites, carpenter ants or bees, or unwanted rodents, it might be a good time for a shed replacement.
Signs of a pesky pest infestation include small piles of sawdust, pellet droppings, scratching noises, or visible nests.
While pest problems can sometimes be resolved, they often create lasting damage to the wood or structure, which makes a shed upgrade the smarter long-term solution.
4. Not Enough Space
Another sure sign of needing a shed upgrade is when your current shed no longer meets all your storage needs.
Is your storage shed overcrowded with gardening tools, seasonal décor, and old furniture or sports equipment? Do you find yourself moving boxes to other spaces in your home due to lack of storage?
A new and larger shed can solve this issue – helping you declutter, organize, and keep everything easily accessible.
5. High Shed Maintenance Costs
Do you often need to make shed roof repairs or floorboard, window, or shed door replacements? If so, the costs for fixing and maintaining your existing shed can quickly add up.
Upgrading to a new Amish shed can minimize maintenance and repair costs and give you peace of mind with a durable structure that is of high quality and built to last.
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Benefits of Upgrading Your Shed
Investing in a new shed has many advantages beyond not having to deal with the above issues, including:
Less Maintenance: If you work with a reputable shed manufacturer, your replacement shed will be built with quality materials that resist wear and tear and stand the test of time. This will save you the hassle of ongoing, costly repairs.
Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal: A stylish new shed can enhance the overall look and feel of your yard, garden, and property in general.
Higher Property Value: A shiny, new shed can improve your property’s curb appeal and actually increase the resale value of your home.
Better Organization: New sheds, like those from Lancaster Barns, often have customizable design options like shelving and work benches. These features help keep all your items tidy and organized.
Tips to Keep Your New Amish Shed in Great Shape
Once you've upgraded your shed, regular maintenance will help it last even longer!
Here's how you can keep your new shed in top condition:
- Inspect the Roof Regularly. Check for loose shingles or cracks to prevent leaks and ensure your roof stays sturdy.
- Check Shed Doors and Windows. Look for drafts and make sure your door and window frames are free of rot. Replace any damaged parts promptly to avoid bigger issues like leaks, mold, or mildew.
- Keep Pests Out. Seal any cracks or gaps where unwanted pests might enter and consider using pest repellents if needed.
- Clean Gutters. If your shed has gutters, keep them clear of leaves and other debris to prevent water damage.
- Prevent Overgrowth. Keep overgrowth from grass and weeds away from the shed so it can dry well after a rain and is easy to maintain the area around the structure.
- Repaint or Seal Annually. Protect your shed’s exterior from wear and tear by regularly repainting or sealing it.
Upgrade Your Shed, Upgrade Your Lifestyle
If you're tired of constant shed maintenance, need better storage, or just want a shed that better complements your home and outdoor space, upgrading to a new Amish shed is a smart move.
Start planning for your new shed today – contact us to speak to an expert shed designer and get a free quote. You can also use our handy online shed designer tool to start creating your dream shed from the comfort of your home!