An expert has shared the signs to look out for in the garden this winter as the weather is set to get colder, wetter and windier.
Now is the time to start preparing the garden for winter, particularly the shed and outdoor buildings.
Experts at Crown Pavilions, luxury garden room suppliers, have highlighted the top warning signs to look out for. These include sheds, fences, grass and furniture.
The team also revealed why you should fix them before winter and possible everlasting damage sets in.
A rough winter could lead to potentially irreversible and costly damage making recovery in spring significantly more difficult. These are the warning signs to look out for in the garden.
Sheds
Rusty hinges
If the shed doors aren’t securely fastened or the hinges are rusty, winter winds can cause further damage, making the shed vulnerable to snow accumulation.
Leaky shed roofs
When a shed roof is cracked or leaking, it allows rain and snow to enter, leading to rot, mould, and structural damage to the shed and its contents.
Bad insulation
A drafty shed won’t protect sensitive garden tools or equipment, leaving them exposed to freezing temperatures and moisture buildup.
Fences
Rotten wood or rusted metal
Wooden fences that show signs of rot or decay, or metal fences with rust patches are susceptible to collapsing under the weight of snow or strong winter winds.
Leaning panels
If the fence is wobbly or has panels coming loose, it might not hold up well against harsh winter storms and may collapse, leaving the garden exposed and unprotected.
Unsecured posts
Weak fence posts are a clear sign your fence won’t survive the winter. Ensure posts are firmly set to prevent shifting or toppling in the frozen ground.
Garden furniture
Lightweight furniture
Plastic or lightweight metal furniture can be easily damaged or blown away by harsh winter winds if not secured or stored away.
Rusty metal furniture
Metal garden furniture showing signs of rust may further deteriorate over winter, especially with exposure to rain and snow, potentially rendering it unusable by spring.
Cracks in wooden furniture
Cracked or untreated wooden furniture can absorb moisture from rain and snow, leading to swelling, rot, and long-term damage.
Grass
Thin or patchy lawn
A weak lawn with bald patches is more susceptible to frost heave, where repeated freezing and thawing damage the grassroots.
Leaves or debris
A lawn covered with leaves or debris can suffer from blocked sunlight and trapped moisture, encouraging mould growth and preventing recovery in spring.
Overly compacted soil
Compacted soil struggles with drainage, leading to standing water or ice that can damage grass over winter.
Regular garden maintenance
This should be performed at least twice a year. Once in spring inspect for any damage the winter has caused and prepare for the wet season, and again at the end of summer to get ready for winter weather.
