Lately, I've been diving into a renovation project that has long been on my to-do list—my shed. This once-sturdy structure had seen better days, with a roof that desperately needed attention. The shingles were battered by falling branches from nearby trees, and previous patch jobs were more than evident. So, I decided to give it a well-deserved makeover, starting with a new polycarbonate roof and a fresh coat of paint. Not only did this spruce up its appearance, but it also provided a proper weather seal to protect the shed from the elements.
As with most home improvement projects, I couldn’t resist the urge to add some tech to enhance its functionality.
Lighting the Way: Solar-Powered Exterior Light
First on the list was installing an exterior light. I opted for a solar-powered, motion-activated fixture positioned above the door’s overhang. Now, fumbling with the padlock in the dark is a thing of the past. This small upgrade has made a world of difference, especially during late-night visits to the shed.
Step Inside: Smart Interior Lighting
Inside the shed, I continued the trend with another motion-activated light. This one hangs centrally and comes with a remote control, allowing me to set different modes based on my needs. Whether I’m grabbing tools or working on a project, I now have the convenience of hands-free illumination, making the shed usable at any hour.
Breathing Easy: Solar-Powered Ventilation
The final tech addition (for now) is a solar-powered fan for ventilation. Admittedly, this wasn’t a must-have, but I had a sizable hole that needed sealing, so it was a perfect opportunity to kill two birds with one stone. The fan helps keep the interior at a more comfortable temperature, which might finally encourage me to use the workbench that’s been gathering dust since I bought the house years ago.
Looking Ahead: Smart Home Integration Possibilities
While these upgrades haven’t yet been integrated into my smart home system, the motion sensors are a simple, smart solution that operates independently of the internet. I’m toying with the idea of adding a door sensor or a ZigBee-connected motion sensor to track my shed usage more precisely. Other future projects might include installing a solar-powered camera or turning the shed into a base for a weather station, further tying it into my Home Assistant system.
