Having a garden shed is a great way to store your gardening tools and supplies. However, it can also attract unwanted guests like snakes looking for food or shelter. Snakeproofing your shed is important to keep these reptiles out and protect your belongings. The good news is you can snakeproof your shed with just one easy DIY trick using common hardware store items.
Why Snakes Enter Sheds
Snakes often find their way into sheds when looking for:
- Food - Rodents and insects in your shed can attract snakes searching for their next meal.
- Water - Spilled water or leaky hoses provide hydration.
- Shelter - Sheds offer warm, dry shelter for snakes to rest.
- Hibernation - Snakes may settle in for winter hibernation.
Dangers of Snakes in Sheds
Having snakes living in your shed can be dangerous because they may:
- Bite - Venomous snakes pose serious risk of injury.
- Spread diseases - Snakes can carry salmonella bacteria.
- Nest and reproduce - Snakes may lay eggs increasing numbers.
- Damage possessions - They knock over items and cause messes.
For these reasons, it's crucial to snakeproof your shed properly.
How to Snakeproof Your Shed in 1 Easy Step
You can deter snakes from entering your shed with one straightforward DIY trick:
Install bottom-sealing metal flashing
Metal flashing installed along the base of shed walls seals any gaps where snakes may sneak in. Here's how to install it:
- Purchase galvanized metal flashing from the hardware store. Get sufficient length to span entire perimeter.
- Cut flashing to correct lengths using tin snips.
- Dig narrow trenches about 3-4 inches deep along shed base next to walls.
- Insert flashing into trenches, bending pieces as needed. Seal flashing joints with silicone caulk.
- Backfill trenches with dirt or gravel to hold flashing in place.
- Ensure flashing is flush with ground and forms tight seal along walls.
This creates a snake-proof metal barrier they cannot slither past. Maintain seal by clearing dirt or debris.
Why Metal Flashing Works
Metal flashing is an effective snake deterrent because:
- Snakes avoid touching metal - The smooth surface distresses them.
- Flashing seals shed base - It blocks access through gaps and holes.
- Galvanized steel is durable - Flashing won't rust or degrade over time.
Added Benefits of Sealing Shed Base
Installing metal flashing has extra benefits beyond keeping snakes out:
- Prevents rodents like mice from entering and nesting.
- Decreases humidity inside shed.
- Deters insect pests from crawling inside.
- Strengthens shed walls by securing base.
So this easy snakeproofing trick better protects your valued shed contents while making the structure more robust.
Alternative Snake Deterrent Options
For additional snake protection, also consider these other deterrents:
- Spread gravel, sand, or sawdust around shed exterior to discourage snakes from approaching.
- Install mesh screen vents on shed to prevent entry while allowing airflow.
- Use snake repellent sprays formulated with sulfur, naphthalene, or cinnamon oil. Reapply after rain.
- Remove debris and wood piles around shed to eliminate snake hiding spots.
- Attach mothballs along shed base since snakes dislike their odor.
Maintain Vigilance Against Snakes
Snakeproofing your shed is an ongoing process. Always watch for signs of snake activity like shed skin or droppings. Check flashing and seals periodically to ensure gaps haven't formed. With continuous vigilance, you can successfully keep snakes away from your shed and maintain a safe space for stowing your valued garden gear.