Does Your Garden Shed Smell Musty?
Here's What to Do!

(6/16) Opening your garden shed and inhaling a musty, damp stench isn't unusual, especially after a rainy week. You might think it's just stale air or wet tools. However, if the odor persists or gets stronger over time, it's more than that. It could mean something more serious, like excess moisture and the potential growth of fungi, like mold or mildew.

Ignoring this smell can lead to problems for the shed's structure, stored items, and even your health. If you notice dark or fuzzy patches on the walls, flooring, or stored items, it may be time to look into mold remediation. Understanding what causes these odors and how to address them can help you avoid costly repairs and health issues.

The Real Culprits Behind That Musty Odor

Your shed's musty smell likely comes from one of two fungal invaders: mold or mildew. While many people use these terms interchangeably, they're different types of fungi with distinct characteristics.

Mildew appears as a grayish or whitish layer covering the moist area. It can be easily tended with a retail-bought cleaner and a scrubber. You'll typically find it on shed walls, doors, or stored items that have gotten damp. However, mold presents a bigger challenge.

It can have colors that range from black to green, and it is often the result of a much larger infestation. Unlike mildew's surface-level growth, mold can penetrate deep into porous materials such as wood, cardboard, and fabric. The key difference lies in their impact on your health and property.

Advanced 24/7 Restoration reveals that mold growth can trigger health complications, like skin irritation, allergies, asthma, and unexplained symptoms. This makes proper identification and treatment crucial for your family's well-being.

When to Handle the Problem Yourself

Not every moldy situation requires professional help. According to the EPA, if the moldy area is less than 10 square feet, you can handle the job yourself. However, it's essential to follow the EPA-recommended cleanup tips and techniques.

Start by sealing any water drains or moisture outlets. Scour mold off solid surfaces with surfactant and water, and dry thoroughly. Dispose of absorbent or porous components, such as ceiling panels and rugs, if they become moldy. But, if the mold keeps returning, has spread behind walls, or causes allergic reactions, it's best to skip the DIY approach.

If the smell is strong or if people using the shed experience headaches or breathing issues, don't take chances. Likewise, avoid using bleach on porous materials, such as wood. It won't reach the mold roots and could leave moisture behind, worsening the problem. Remember, safety comes first during any cleanup attempt.

Wear protective gear, including goggles, gloves, and an N95 respirator. Never attempt to clean large areas or suspected toxic mold varieties. Don't attempt DIY removal if you discover black mold or suspect lethal varieties, especially if you have prior medical issues.

Why does my shed smell musty even after cleaning it?

Even after cleaning, a musty smell can linger if moisture remains trapped in the shed's walls, insulation, or flooring. Old wood, wet insulation, or overlooked corners may continue harboring mold spores. Running a dehumidifier and checking hidden areas often solves the problem.

Understanding Professional Inspection and Remediation Costs

If you're dealing with widespread contamination or suspect serious mold issues, professional help becomes essential. Likewise, opt for expert assistance if the water and/or mold damage was caused by sewage or other contaminated water.

According to HomeGuide, a typical mold inspection costs around $300 to $650. Its price varies depending on the contamination area size, its location and accessibility, testing costs, and expedited services. However, the national average is about $450. A thorough professional inspection includes several key components.

The inspector will use a moisture meter, thermal imaging, and air/surface sampling to locate areas likely to have hidden mold. These techniques help detect contamination invisible to the naked eye. When it comes to actual removal, costs vary significantly based on the scope of the problem.

Angi reveals that mold remediation typically costs around $2,370, but ranges from $1,222 to $3,751. For extensive whole-house contamination, expenses can reach $10,000 to $30,000. The location of mold growth heavily influences pricing. Removing mold from particular spaces in your home is pricer than others.

For instance, mold growth in hard-to-reach areas, such as HVAC systems or drywall, requires more time and cleanup materials than mold in convenient spaces. Basement remediation costs between $500 and $3,000, while HVAC system remediation can cost as much as $10,000.

Can I use essential oils to eliminate musty smells in a shed?

Yes, essential oils like tea tree or eucalyptus can help mask odors and even reduce mildew. Add a few drops of oil with water in a sprayer and mist surfaces. However, they're a temporary fix. Addressing moisture issues is still your best long-term solution.

Preventing Future Moisture Problems

Prevention remains your best defense against recurring musty odors. The key lies in moisture control, as fungi cannot survive in dry environments. Unusual smells don't always come from inside the shed. For instance, in 2023, many US residents noticed a manure-like smell outside their homes.

This occurs due to decomposing mulch releasing sulfur compounds, or trapped air from weather phenomena, like temperature inversions. While surprising, such outdoor odors are often harmless natural occurrences. However, consistent mustiness inside your shed almost always points to trapped moisture or mold.

To reduce moisture, start by adequately ventilating your shed. Install vents or fans to promote air circulation. Use a dehumidifier during humid months to keep moisture levels below 50%. Address the root causes of moisture infiltration. Check for roof leaks, poor drainage around the foundation, or gaps in the structure that allow rainwater inside.

Seal any cracks and ensure adequate door and window weather stripping. Store items properly to minimize moisture retention. Avoid placing cardboard boxes directly on the floor, and use plastic bins with tight-fitting lids instead. Create air gaps between stored items and walls to promote airflow.

What materials are most mold-resistant for shed storage?

Plastic, metal, and treated wood are more resistant to mold than cardboard or fabric. Opt for plastic bins with tight lids and avoid storing items directly on the shed floor. Using shelving and moisture-absorbing packets also helps prevent mold from taking hold.

That musty smell in your garden shed isn't just an annoyance; it could be a warning sign. Mold thrives in damp, closed spaces, and ignoring the signs may lead to bigger problems later. While small surface mildew issues often respond to DIY treatment, extensive mold growth requires professional intervention.