Tools That Break Fast if You Keep Them in the Shed
A shed might seem like a decent place to keep tools, but unless it’s sealed tight and climate controlled (which most aren’t), a lot of tools won’t last long in there.
Cordless Tools
Battery packs and moisture don’t mix.
Humidity kills battery life fast, and freezing temps can ruin a battery for good. If you keep your cordless drill or impact in the shed, don’t be surprised if it quits charging next season.
Socket Sets
Even stainless-looking tools will rust in a damp shed.
If the case isn’t airtight or gets knocked around, rust will sneak in. Once they pit or seize, they’re a pain to clean up—or you end up replacing them.
Hand Saws
Exposed blades will rust faster than you think, even if you never use them.
Keep them oiled and stored inside when possible. Sheds tend to collect moisture without ventilation, which speeds up damage big time.
Tape Measures
The metal blade warps or rusts when humidity gets too high.
And if you leave one outside or in a hot shed, the plastic housing starts to crack. Keep them inside if you want them to stay accurate.
Pliers and Wrenches
They might feel solid, but shed storage turns them gritty real fast.
Once they get surface rust, they won’t grip the same—and even a little buildup will make them harder to open and use smoothly.
Extension Cords
Heat, cold, and moisture break down the insulation over time.
The plastic goes brittle, and one good pull can split the jacket or expose wires. Hang cords loosely and store them inside if you care about longevity.
Glue and Sealants
If your caulk or wood glue lives in the shed, it’s probably already ruined.
Freezing temps separate the formula, and extreme heat makes them dry out. Most of it ends up unusable the next time you need it.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
