How to Keep Animals Away From Sheds
Storage can be an issue for many homeowners. Decorations, yard tools and lawn equipment all need proper storage, and a number of homeowners build sheds to contain their excess property. Most homeowners also have animals and choose to store many hazardous chemicals in their sheds, so preventing animals from getting into them is necessary. Keeping animals away from sheds is not only important to keeping the yard neat and tidy, it is also essential to the health of the animals. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Fencing
- Fine mesh screening
- Hammer
- Nails
- Saw
- Wood
- Storage bins
- Bungee cords
- Ammonia
- Rags
Instructions
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1
Close off the area around your shed with fencing to keep larger animals from getting too close. You can choose any fencing material you like, although it should be at least 4 feet tall to make jumping or climbing difficult for curious animals.
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2
Lock all doors and windows on your shed. Some animals, such as opossums and raccoons, can open doors and let themselves into your shed. Keeping all entrances securely locked will deter them from your property.
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3
Cover any vents or gaps in your shed with mesh screening. Use your hammer and a few long nails to firmly attach the screen over any holes that could allow animals into your shed.
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4
Repair any rotten or damaged sections of your shed. Rain, snow and insects can rot wood and weaken your shed, making it easier for animals to chew through. Cut out any damaged sections with your saw and repair with new, healthy wood to make chewing more difficult.
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5
Store any food items inside large storage bins to keep animals from invading them. Large metal trash cans with lids work well for storing items such as birdseed and pet food. If the lids come loose, strap them down with a bungee cord to keep out pesky animals.
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Place a few rags soaked with ammonia around the perimeter of your shed. Most animals do not like the smell of ammonia and will avoid your shed because of the scent.
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Tips & Warnings
Avoid storing garbage or any other potent smelling items in your shed. The less scents to attract animals, the fewer animals you will have to contend with.
Do not use poisons in your shed if you have domestic pets. It might seem like a good idea to place rat or mouse bait in your shed, but if you cat or dog ingests poisoned pests, they can become sick too.
