Is it possible to weatherproof an existing shed? Standard wood construction, open studs inside, open eaves (soffits consist of chicken wire), double doors.

Asking b/c we're looking at houses and Mrs.BurtonRW wants to know the feasibility of weatherproofing an existing shed - rather large - for storage of things that are currently in our attic (which is climate controlled with the rest of our house).

In other words - can I seal the thing against weather and all manner of vermin (including insects), add a dehumidifier, and some sort of basic HVAC? It is fully wired - electricity is no problem. I'm mostly concerned about the sealing it up part.

Thanks.

-Rob

I would think as you describe it, that is just an "unfinished" house, so a home contractor or carpenter should be able to finish it out and repair/replace any components that are deficient in regard to the vermin issue.

That being said, I would worry that I wouldn't give it as much attention regarding maintenance as I do my home, thus letting things slide and losing the integrity of safe storage.

Can you button up a shed so that insects and animals don't get in? Sure. As far as "weatherproof," do you mean creating a stable temperature inside? I mean, you can do that, but it's going to be an energy pig unless you really insulate it. Putting a dehumidifier and heating/cooling in an otherwise uninsulated space will make the meter spin.

Making a shed so it can store the same type of things people typically put in an attic... not so much. Unless you live in a place with stable humidity and no wild temperature swings, things like clothes, books, photos, anything sensitive to humidity that is too high or two low, and temperature swings... don't put that stuff in a shed.

Our place had an old root cellar from the WW2 era dug part way into the hillside with a few cement walls & floor. A little redesigning, a new roof covered by membrane, 2"+ spray foam, it's pretty comfy. Well water pressure tanks inside & canned goods. The spray foam now at 20+ years past install, it still keeps the place about 20 degrees warmer in winter & 20 lower in summer.

About 18x18, good space for storage & hobby bench. No practical way to keep heavy rainy season from seeping onto floor from hillside & 80 year old concrete. Dry most the year but anything you really want to keep needs tighter controls. I'm rural so this serves the need quite well, as other outbuildings are tighter.

Finally had to get the ant control folks signed up for duty.

I gonna say it depends. A shed as you describe might be a real challenge to keep insects and varmint's out and seal it up. Climate control is going to problematic with no ceiling in it. What kind of a foundation and floor is there?

Sure, A lot can be done but how much $ do you want to spend?