Your backyard office shed takes a beating out here in Northern Colorado. Between the heavy spring wet snows off the Rockies, intense summer UV radiation, and those sudden temperature drops we get in October, keeping up with maintenance is important if you want your workspace to last. Fort Collins Custom Sheds has built plenty of these structures, and the ones that last for 15 to 20 years or more all have one thing in common: regular, common-sense upkeep.
The following steps are what you need to do to protect your investment and keep your workspace comfortable.
What Regular Maintenance Looks Like
Homeowners do not need a massive checklist every weekend, but you do need to pay attention to the seasons. Every spring and fall, take an hour to walk the perimeter of your Office Shed in Fort Collins.
- Clear out the pine needles and cottonwood fuzz from your gutters if you installed them, and make sure water is draining away from your foundation.
- Check the caulking around your windows and doors. Our dry climate shrinks and cracks sealants faster than you would think.
- Test your electrical panel or sub-panel to make sure breakers are not tripping, especially after heavy rains.
Beating the Colorado Climate
Our local weather swings can test any building materials used in Shed Construction. The intense sun on the Front Range bakes exterior paint and stain faster than it would in a more humid climate. If you notice the south or west side of your office shed fading or looking dry, do not wait three years to reapply a coat of high-quality stain or exterior paint. Siding that dries out starts to cup and crack.
Insulation and HVAC are also important for office sheds. If you are running a mini-split, clean those filters every couple of months. Dust and construction debris get kicked up easily around yards, and a clogged filter makes your unit work too hard against our July heatwaves.
Warning Signs You Shouldn't Ignore
Catching problems early saves you hundreds of dollars in repair costs. Keep your eyes peeled for these red flags on your Backyard Shed:
Water stains on the interior drywall or ceiling are obvious, but check the corners near the floor too. If your door starts sticking or rubbing against the frame, your foundation might be shifting due to our expansive clay soils settling after a heavy moisture cycle. Mildew smells or soft spots on the floor near your desk also mean moisture is getting where it should not.
When to Call a Professional
Some do-it-yourself fixes are fine, but know your limits. If you see structural sagging, major roof leaks around roof penetrations, or electrical issues involving your main feed, stop and call a professional. Messing with electricity or structural framing when you rely on that space for your daily job is a headache you do not need. Keep it simple, stay ahead of the weather, and your Shed Builder projects will hold up for many years in the Fort Collins climate.