How to paint your shed

Spruce up your shed in three easy steps to create a garden escape - just add a few comfy chairs, cushions and relax.

You will need

5L of your favourite Cuprinol Garden Shades (you may need more depending on the size of your shed)
Small deep pile roller and tray
A selection of 1" and 2" paintbrushes for the fiddly bits
Plastic dust sheet - to keep your garden looking pristine!
Masking tape

How to prepare a shed for painting

1. Prep the area

We recommend pulling out any old nails or screws sticking out of the shed, as these can be hazardous. Remove any hanging baskets, plant pots, furniture or objects obstructing the shed, or cover them with sheets or tarpaulin to avoid paint splashes. If your shed is near a patio or decking area, you may want to protect this too.

2. Wash and repair the shed

Brush away any loose debris or dirt using a stiff brush. Then, wash the shed using a pressure washer to remove stubborn grime. If you don’t have a pressure washer, use a bucket of warm water, dish soap and a sponge. Rinse the shed with clean water and let it dry thoroughly. After that, use a wood filler to repair any small holes or cracks.

3. Sand and prime the shed

Sand down rough areas to remove splinters, ensuring the walls are smooth enough for even paint coverage. Apply a priming product to protect the shed, like the Cuprinol Clear Wood Preserver, which is ideal for use under paints and varnishes.

Let the first coat of wood preserver dry partially – allow between two and six hours before applying a second coat. Then, leave at least 16 hours for the shed to dry completely. After that, you’re ready to start painting!

Step 1

Mask off shed windows and hinges with masking tape - this is a really great way to achieve neat edges.

Step 2

Choose your favourite colour of Cuprinol Garden Shades and get painting, starting at the top. Paint tricky areas around joints and window frames using a brush and larger areas with a roller.

Step 3

Allow to dry and then apply a second coat within 24hrs.