The influence of weather conditions on wooden shelters
Wooden shelters are a practical and aesthetic way to store a wide variety of items in the garden - from firewood and garden tools to bicycles and garden furniture. However, regardless of whether it is a closed wooden shelter or a more open version with just one, two or three walls, they are exposed to different weather conditions. In this article, we take a look at how different weather conditions can affect wooden shelters and how you can best protect your shelter.
The influence of rain and moisture
Closed shelters:
Enclosed wooden shelters offer good protection against rain and moisture. They keep the inside dry and prevent water from penetrating the stored material. However, moisture can accumulate inside if there is insufficient ventilation, which can lead to mold growth and wood decay. It is therefore important to ensure that there is sufficient ventilation to guarantee air circulation.
Open or partially open shelters:
Open shelters or those with only one to three walls have a higher risk of rain getting in. Although this design allows for better ventilation, it requires additional protection against rain. The roof should be constructed in such a way that rainwater is effectively drained away and it may be advisable to use covers or tarpaulins for particularly sensitive items.
The influence of wind
Enclosed shelters:
Enclosed wooden shelters offer strong protection from the wind, which is particularly important when light objects or piles of wood are to be stored safely. The walls prevent the wind from hitting the stored items directly, thus reducing the risk of them being knocked over or damaged.
Open or partially open shelters:
Wind protection is less effective with open or partially open shelters. Shelters with only one or two walls in particular run the risk of gusts of wind penetrating and upsetting the stored items. In this case, it can be helpful to align the more open side of the shelter towards a natural barrier such as a hedge, fence or wall to provide additional protection.
The influence of sunlight
Enclosed shelters:
Closed shelters protect against direct sunlight, which is particularly important when storing wood to prevent it from drying out too quickly and cracking. Objects that are sensitive to UV radiation, such as garden furniture or garden tools, are also better off in a closed shelter.
Open or partially open shelters:
Open or partially open shelters allow more sunlight through, which on the one hand can be beneficial for drying firewood quickly. On the other hand, materials that should not be permanently exposed to the sun can be damaged. In this case, it may be helpful to use UV-resistant covers or to align the shelter so that the sensitive sides are protected from direct sunlight.
The influence of snow and cold
Closed shelters:

Enclosed shelters offer the best protection against snow and cold. The roof prevents snow from accumulating inside the shelter and the walls insulate the stored items somewhat from the cold temperatures. This is particularly important for sensitive materials that could be damaged by severe cold.
Open or partially open shelters:
Snow can penetrate open or partially open shelters more easily, especially if there are heavy snow drifts. A well-constructed roof is also important here to keep snow out from above. For additional protection, the open sides can be closed with tarpaulins or curtains in winter to protect the stored items from snow and cold.
Conclusion
Weather conditions have a significant impact on the longevity and protection of wooden shelters, regardless of whether they are closed or open models. While closed shelters offer the most comprehensive protection, open or partially open shelters require additional measures to withstand rain, wind, sun and snow. However, the right design, orientation and additional protective measures can ensure that your wooden shelter and the items stored inside are well protected, whatever the weather conditions.
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