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How to paint a wooden shed

Rain, wind, sleet and snow, day in, day out. Your shed goes through a lot battling with the weather, but it doesn't take much to give it an uplift if it's looking worse for wear. This guide shows you how to refresh yours. Wood needs to be completely dry, so the best time to apply any paint, stain or treatment is after a dry spell and when no rain is expected for a few days.

Project essentials

Materials Tools Safety
Exterior wood paint or stain Timber brush or Shed and fence roller Goggles
Outdoor cleaner Stiff hand brush Gloves
Masking tape Paint brush Dust mask
  Newspaper  

Take care if you're using a step ladder to reach all angles of your shed. It may sound obvious, but move the ladder when necessary instead of trying to reach difficult areas. Always ensure the feet are on firm ground.

Using a hammer to drive a loose nail into the outside of a shed.Using a hammer to drive a loose nail into the outside of a shed.Using a hammer to drive a loose nail into the outside of a shed.Using a hammer to drive a loose nail into the outside of a shed.

Step 1: 

Now's the time to make any repairs and replace any decayed sections of wood with healthy timber.

For small areas, use an exterior wood filler which can then be sanded flush prior to painting.

Using a cleaning cloth to wipe down the exterior of a garden shed.Using a cleaning cloth to wipe down the exterior of a garden shed.Using a cleaning cloth to wipe down the exterior of a garden shed.Using a cleaning cloth to wipe down the exterior of a garden shed.

Step 2:

Prepare the wood by using a stiff brush to get rid of any dirt or cobwebs and flaking paint. If the surface is covered in algae, dip the brush in diluted outdoor cleaner and scrub it clean before rinsing off.

Allow the surface to dry completely. Grab some breakfast and a cuppa while you wait!

A plastic dust sheet laid on the ground, protecting plants next to a garden shed.A plastic dust sheet laid on the ground, protecting plants next to a garden shed.A plastic dust sheet laid on the ground, protecting plants next to a garden shed.A plastic dust sheet laid on the ground, protecting plants next to a garden shed.

Step 3:

Cover any nearby surfaces and plants with dust sheets in case of any drips. Trim back any unwanted foliage to give yourself plenty of space to work. Tie back any climbing plants that can't be covered or you don't want to cut back, using plant ties and canes.

Step 4:

Use masking tape and newspaper to cover any metal work (handles) and window panes.

Consider unscrewing any handles or fittings so you can paint underneath for a really neat finish.

A person wearing gloves, using a timber brush to apply paint to the exterior of a timber shed.A person wearing gloves, using a timber brush to apply paint to the exterior of a timber shed.A person wearing gloves, using a timber brush to apply paint to the exterior of a timber shed.A person wearing gloves, using a timber brush to apply paint to the exterior of a timber shed.

Step 5:

Use the timber brush or roller to apply a thick, even coat of wood paint along the grain of the timber. Apply brush strokes in the same direction as the grain and be careful not to spread the paint too far.

Avoid runs or drips by not overloading the brush or roller and be sure to work it in well. Pick up any wet edges before they begin to dry in a drip shape and don’t let the paint collect in crevices as it will create runs.

For any end grains, such as the tops of posts or at the corners of sheds, we, we recommend dabbing the brush on these areas to make sure that the product soaks into the wood. Allow the paint to dry.

Check the information on the paint tin for specific timings and decide if your shed needs another coat.

When the paint has completely dried before removing any coverings from your plants, paths etc. and screwing back into position any handles or accessories. You're new and improved shed is ready and waiting to be shown off!