Shed Ventilation

If the only ventilation in your shed is the door, take note. You don't have to live with a stifling hot shed all summer long. You can fix things, perhaps for less than you thought possible. Of all the shed building afterthoughts, ventilation is one of the easiest problems to solve. All you need is a reciprocating saw, a fistful of cash, and a spare afternoon.

When used in concert with an open door, a strategically placed, inexpensive double-hung window can be just the ticket. But with the thought of cross ventilation (and a closed door) in mind, two windows are even better ... not two windows on the same side of the shed, however, lest you lose the cross ventilation effect .

Does your shed have a loft area or significant pitch? Remember that hot air rises ... simply adding an inexpensive window (or windows) to the lower side(s) of your shed may not clear the hot air out of the rafters.

How about fitting a venting skylight to your shed's roof? You'll need plenty of space (and a bit more cash), but think of the warmth and sunlight you'll gain in the colder months. A quality manual venting deck mounted skylight will easily set you back $350. Take special care with your flashing and caulking, or you'll end up with a leaky roof.

Concerned about security? Don't want to add glass windows? Consider a greenhouse shutter and fan for air exchange. No electricity at your shed? Fret not! Solar powered vent systems can be had for less than $200.