Insulation Techniques for Your Garden Shed this Winter

As the winter chill starts to settle in, more and more people will be turning to the warmth of their homes, avoiding outdoor areas at all costs.

But just because the temperature has plummeted doesn’t mean your shed is off-limits for the season. With the right insulation techniques, you can keep your shed warm and cosy, perfect for relaxing away from the family or game nights with friends.

In this blog, Atlas Sheds will walk through effective insulation techniques for your garden shed this winter. We recommend using these alongside other heat sources, such as a portable heater or a log burner, to achieve that inviting atmosphere you dream about.

1. Insulate the Walls

When insulating your shed, the walls are the best place to start. These are your shed’s first line of defence against the cold, preventing your teeth from chattering inside.

Without insulation, heat will escape easily, resulting in a chilly and uncomfortable indoor environment. When insulating your shed, ensure you do the following:

Use foam boards or fibreglass batts: These materials offer excellent thermal resistance, retaining heat indoors. These can be cut and inserted easily between the wall studs, perfect for smaller sheds.
Cover with a protective layer: To protect the insulation and improve the interior's appearance, a protective covering, like a solid layer of plywood, plasterboard, or OSB (Oriented Strand Board) sheets, should be placed over it. This can also act as a defence against moisture and provide a neat surface to be painted or finished.
Seal the edges: Seal the edges of your walls with caulk or expanding foam to fill any gaps around the insulation. This will prevent cold air from creeping in through small cracks or holes.

2. Seal Windows and Doors

Windows and doors are an important factor in insulating your garden shed. Small gaps or cracks around the structures can lead to cold drafts, rendering your cosy space useless.

Weatherstripping: Adhesive weatherstripping tape and rubber strips are affordable and easy to apply. Place these around the edges of doors and windows to create a tight seal, ensuring the surface is clean beforehand.
Thermal curtains or bubble wrap: Wrap bubble wrap around windows to let natural light in while trapping warm air inside. Thermal curtains are also great for creating a decorative appearance while improving your shed's insulation.
Check door alignment: If the door doesn’t close properly, adjust the hinges, repair any damaged parts with wood filler, or add a door sweep to block drafts from underneath.

3. Insulate the Roof

Failing to insulate your roof will result in a cold, lifeless shed that is less inviting in the winter.

Moist air can also condense on the surface, leading to mould and dampness issues. Insulation acts as a protective barrier for your roof, preventing cold air from entering.

This means you can also rely less on electrical heat sources, saving you money in the long run!

Reflective foil insulation: This is lightweight and easy to attach directly to the underside of the roof panels. Foil insulation can help reflect heat into the shed, which is ideal for both metal and wooden sheds.
Insulation boards or fibreglass batts: These materials both provide excellent thermal resistance for a shed roof, providing additional warmth retention. However, fibreglass batts require careful insulation to avoid gaps.
Waterproofing: Apply a waterproof sealant or replace any broken panels to make sure the roof is leak-free. Moisture can weaken insulation and cause other problems, such as mould. Replace any damaged roof panels to prevent water ingress.

4. Insulate the Floor

The floor is an important part of any shed. You want your feet to stay warm and cosy, but you also want to ensure the floor is comfortable to walk on and will remain durable for years to come.

Adding effective insulation to your floor can prevent moisture from rising from the ground and any furniture from becoming damp.

Damp-proof membrane: When placed directly on the existing floor, a damp-proof membrane, such as a heavy-duty plastic sheet, will prevent moisture from rising. You can also use waterproof tape to seal any overlaps or joints.
Insulation boards: Place polystyrene or polyurethane rigid insulation boards on top of the membrane, followed by plywood or OSB sheets. This will create a smooth, durable surface.
Raised flooring: For an extra layer of insulation, consider installing a slightly raised floor. You can do this by propping it up with joists and filling the gaps between them with insulation materials.

5. Use Rugs and Carpets

No shed is complete without a cosy rug or two. These not only provide further insulation but also add a soft underfoot feeling, making your shed feel like an extension of your home.

This also adds personality to the space and makes it look more appealing to guests. For the best effect, follow the tips below:

Thick rugs or carpet remnants: Heavy-duty rugs, like wool rugs, provide an additional layer of insulation and feel much more comfortable and luxurious underfoot. This is perfect for those who spend time working or relaxing in their shed.
Rubber-backed mats: If moisture is a concern, opt for rubber-backed mats. These resist dampness, are easy to clean, and provide a non-slip surface, perfect for workshops.
Layer for added warmth: Sometimes, one rug just isn’t enough! For particularly cold spots, double up on rugs or use old blankets underneath for extra padding.

Get Your Garden Winter Ready at Atlas Sheds

Is your old shed just not cutting it any more? Or are you looking for a way to enjoy the outdoors without freezing in winter? If so, we have just the thing for you.

At Atlas Sheds, we offer a wide selection of high-quality garden sheds designed to suit every need, whether you're looking for storage, an office, or a cosy retreat.

Designed with durable tanalised timber, our sheds can outlast even the harshest winters, providing you with the snug garden hideout you’ve always dreamed of.