Ventilation is essential for your shed even if the shed is situated outside. Good ventilation will ensure that there is proper airflow, which will reduce the chances of the growth of mould and mildew. Ventilating your shed will ensure that the temperature inside is regulated in all seasons even during winter.
This article will highlight some of the things you need to put into consideration when deciding on the right ventilation system for your shed and some shed ventilation ideas.
How Do You Know When Your Shed is Not Properly Ventilated?
There will be stale air, moisture build-up, musty smell and fumes from chemicals. When you are in an area that is not properly ventilated, you will notice that you have a hard time breathing. Excess heat is also a sign that your shed has no proper ventilation.
Things to Consider when Choosing the Right Shed Ventilation
Each shed requires its type of ventilation. Not all ventilation systems are compatible with all sheds.
The type of ventilation you choose can be based on the roof’s design and attic layout. The size of your shed is the most important aspect to keep in mind.
If you choose a whirligig as a form of ventilation for your shed, ensure that your shed is in a place that has prevailing winds otherwise the ventilation system will be non-functional.
You can reduce the heat rate inside your shed by insulating it.
The following are types of ventilation systems based on the design and layout of your shed.
Types of Ventilation Systems
There are different types of ventilation systems and the two main ones are wall and ridge vents. They are:
1. Wall Vents
This ventilation system allows for consistent airflow. Wall vents are useful in keeping the walls and stored items in the shed in good shape.
2. Ridge Vents
These ventilation systems are installed at the top of a slanted rooftop which is what is known as a ridge roof. The fresh air is let in and stale air is let out through the roof. These vents are ideal for high ceilings, sheds and attics. If your shed is large, you can install two or more ridge vents.
3. Venting Skylight
This ventilation system is dual purpose. It serves as ventilation and as an extra source of light. Good air circulation and extra lighting is a necessity for a shed.
4. Add Windows
If your shed has only one window or no windows at all, you can add two or more windows to enhance good airflow in your shed. Windows increase air circulation, they let in enough sunlight and make the appearance of your shed much more appealing.
5. Turbines
If your shed experiences condensation, it is important to incorporate turbines. Wind Turbine Ventilators function as a passive airflow mechanism. It lets out hot and humid air from your shed.
6. Gable Vents
This ventilation can be controlled such that you can decide the amount of air you need in your shed. For instance, during winter, you can regulate the amount of air getting in your shed as a means of controlling when it gets too cold.
How to Properly Ventilate A Shed
You can ventilate your shed as a DIY project or get it done by a professional. Whichever means you decide to use, the following steps will guide you on how best to ventilate your shed.
1. Back to Basics:
Open the doors and Windows. You can ventilate your shed by simply opening the doors and windows. There will be proper airflow in and out of your shed, as well as sunlight especially if your shed has multiple windows.
However, the downside to using the door and window as ventilation means is that it can be impractical. This applies especially in the nighttime.
2. Installing vents
Vents are convenient for improving your ventilation capabilities. Wall vents are a good example of this. Vents require either electricity or wind for them to work. They are a good investment when you want to keep your shed cool in the summer and moisture-free during the winter season.
Vents are a good choice since they can keep out rodents as well. Some are shaped like grills and others contain a mesh.
3. Install an electric fan
An electric fan is best suited for a large shed. Fans that are powered by electricity will highly boost the circulation of air in your shed. The blades rotate and in the process, they draw clean, fresh air inside and stale air out. However, it is important to ensure that your shed has enough power supply that will sustain the fan.
4. Whirligigs
These types of vents contain turbines that are powered by wind to pull fresh air into the shed. Their functionality is similar to that of electric fans, except that these fans do not need power for them to operate. Whirligigs are useful when you want to maintain cool air inside the shed. They cost less to run since they only require wind when installed.
In Conclusion
This article is a guide on how best to ventilate your shed. It gives you information on how to know that your shed is not properly ventilated. We hope you have fun as you DIY your shed’s ventilation system.
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