Anyone with a yard will have equipment that they use regularly to maintain it. This equipment needs to be looked after properly to expand its lifespan and keep it in good working order, making storage space a worthwhile investment.
Storage doesn’t need to be huge and expensive, a smaller storage shed can be a great option. Those made from steel are particularly hardwearing, require little maintenance and can be moved or extended as required.
Here are 10 advantages of installing some form of storage for your garden equipment:
Keep your equipment organized
Whether you are doing a bit of de-weeding, plant care or lawn maintenance, not being able to find the equipment you need to use is a bother. Over the years you have probably built up a large collection of tools, in a shed you can use shelving, hooks and even ceiling attachments to hold and organize your stuff.
Avoid letting your equipment rust or rot
Both metal and wooden tools need to be cared for properly to keep them in good condition in the long term. You should get into the routine of wiping down spades, blades and other equipment after each use before storing them away.
Prevent weather damage
Rainfall and even intense sunlight can cause damage to your gardening tools and accessories. Waterproofed storage will keep it safe from the elements.
After any significant weather events, you should take a moment to check your storage container or shed hasn’t been damaged. A repair completed quickly after bad weather will help prevent damp or other issues inside the shed.
Safety for pets and children
If you have young children or curious pets, it is absolutely essential that you keep shard tools and any gardening chemical treatments well out of their reach. A storage shed can be locked and secured to prevent access, although it is still worth taking time to educate children on the dangers of playing with garden equipment or trying to use it without the presence of an adult.
This also benefits adults as well from also getting hurt while around gardening equipment. Having a specific place to place the equipment will ensure that the equipment isn’t left around where it can be stepped on or knocked over.
Prevent theft
Gardening tools and machinery can be expensive, making them a target for theft. There are plenty of anti-theft steps you can take when you have storage. This could include locking systems, burglar alarms and CCTV cameras.
Avoiding clutter
Not only is storage practical, it also looks far better than piling your equipment up in the yard or bringing it inside the house to clutter your living space. Every now and again, perhaps once a season, take a moment to look around your shed and dispose of or donate anything that is no longer used or needed to prevent clutter building up.
Have somewhere to clean and maintain equipment
A larger shed is a sensible option if you plan to do more than store equipment in there. Having a bit of extra space means you can get out of the rain or intense sun and spend time cleaning down and maintaining equipment after each use.
Keep cleaning equipment inside your shed too. It can be really helpful to install a sink and taps in your shed if possible, so you can clean yourself up before going back into the house.
Save money by extending the lifespan of your tools
There is a long-term cost benefit to having storage space. Although there is the initial outlay of purchasing the storage, keeping tools secure and in good condition will mean having to replace them less frequently and will save you money in the long run.
Prevent pests
If you have bird feed or other animal foods, this can attract pests such as rats and mice. Storing these off the ground and behind closed doors should help deter pests from entering your garden and getting into your stuff.
Sheds can be versatile spaces
Sheds are just for gardening equipment; with some extra space you could use it as a workshop or relaxation space.
