1. Timber Treatment & Protection

All Ace garden buildings are manufactured using pressure-treated timber. This specialist treatment protects the wood from rot and insect attack, but it does not make the building waterproof. For the best long-term performance, apply a water-repellent topcoat after installation.

Why Treatment Matters

Timber is naturally porous — even when pressure treated — which means moisture can still pass through. To minimise water absorption and weathering, we strongly recommend sealing all exterior timber with a high-quality waterproof paint or wood treatment.

• Recommended products: Protek Waterproofing Wood Stain or Protek Royal Exterior colours (available on our website). Expect 2–5 years protection depending on exposure and wear.
• Allow the freshly treated timber to dry for around two weeks before coating (typically quicker in summer and slower in winter).
• Don’t seal too early — the timber needs time to release moisture naturally after installation.

Natural Timber Variations

• Light green marks can appear during treatment due to varying timber densities — normal and a sign of effective treatment.
• Dark spotting may also occur and does not affect strength or protection.

2. Guttering — Highly Recommended

Fitting guttering can significantly extend your building’s lifespan. It prevents rainwater running down the walls, reduces splashback onto lower cladding, and helps keep the base drier.

We offer guttering kits as part of our shed options, or you can purchase from most DIY stores and fit later.

3. Ironmongery & Fixtures

Lubricate door furniture (hinges, locks, hasps, handles) regularly. Timber expands and contracts with the weather, so minor adjustments to doors, locks or fittings may occasionally be required.

4. Moisture, Condensation & Mould Prevention

Why Moisture Happens

If your building is installed during damp or wet conditions, the timber needs time to dry out. Without adequate ventilation, condensation forms inside, often seen as water droplets, damp patches, or runs of water on walls, windows, and the roof underside — commonly mistaken for leaks.

Winter and early spring have the highest moisture levels. Damp air can become trapped, condense overnight, and settle on surfaces and stored items. Without airflow, this can lead to mould and mildew.

How to Prevent Moisture Build-Up

• Ventilation is key. Open doors and windows whenever possible to allow fresh air to circulate.
• Built-in ventilation: All Ace garden buildings are fitted with vent panels along the eaves to encourage continuous airflow throughout the structure. These vents are covered with insect mesh to let moisture escape while keeping pests out.
• Dry wet items before storing them inside the building.
• Use moisture traps or dehumidifiers to absorb airborne moisture.
• Keep cardboard, paper, and fabric raised off the floor and away from walls to let air move freely.
• If mould appears, wipe it away promptly with a household spray cleaner to prevent spread.

Additional Moisture Control Options

• Insulation: Adding insulation to walls and roof helps retain warm, dry air. Basic foil-backed insulation can be stapled in place, or use 50 mm Celotex (or similar) boards cut to fit between uprights.
• Prefer a ready-to-use option? Consider our Superfoil Shed Insulation Kit, designed for garden buildings — lightweight, easy to install, improves thermal performance and reduces condensation.
• Heating: A small heater can dry the timber and the internal air, speeding up the drying process and reducing condensation.

Note: Unheated timber buildings will naturally experience some dampness in winter. These conditions can encourage mould and mildew; while our tips minimise this, we cannot be responsible for damage to stored items (even well-insulated homes can experience seasonal damp).

5. Doors & Windows

Silicone seals around doors and windows may need periodic resealing. Window stays and hinges might also need minor adjustment as the timber moves and settles.

6. Roofing & Weather Protection

Felt Roofing

• Ace buildings are fitted with high-quality polyester-based green mineral felt.
• Inspect regularly for damage — especially if positioned beneath trees or near overhanging branches.
• Trim back foliage to prevent contact with the roof surface.
• Some slight movement or rippling is normal and will settle as the material acclimatises to weather.

Onduline & Rubber Roofing

If fitted with Onduline or EPDM rubber roofing, these materials have manufacturer guarantees and offer long-term, low-maintenance performance. As with felt, check periodically and keep branches clear.

7. Long-Term Care & Support

With a little routine maintenance, your Ace garden building will give many years of service and enjoyment.

This guide covers the vast majority of common aftercare scenarios, but we’re always happy to help — whether you need hands-on support, product advice, or just reassurance over the phone or by email.