Sheds are useful for storing all sorts of things, but sheds have a particular purpose like so many things in life. A storage shed for storing lawnmowers, garden tools, and other outdoor equipment is usually simple and functional. However, which roofing material is best for your shed? While the answer is not as simple as selecting the cheapest one, there are a few factors to consider that will help you choose your roof.
Importance Of Choosing The Right Roof
Choosing the right roof is essential if you plan to build a garden shed. The roof can be made of a wide range of materials, and you will have to decide which one suits your needs. The first thing you need to consider is your budget and the size of the shed.
Fortunately, you can usually find affordable pro roofing options that should suit most requirements. Nevertheless, you must select the right roof for the job. You need to consider many factors, including your climate, what you use the shed for, style, etc.
If you choose wisely, you will have a roof that lasts for years and blends into the surrounding environment. Choose poorly, and you risk spending a fortune on repairs, replacements, and possible damage to the shed’s contents.
Think About What You Use The Shed For
The first step is to think carefully about how you will use your shed. To many people, this might sound like a straightforward step. After all, sheds simply contain garnering equipment and other miscellaneous items, right? Well, in some cases, yes, but you might be surprised at the number of uses a shed can have.
They can be used for hobbies, to repair mechanical items, or simply as a sanctuary at the end of your garden! In fact, the famous children’s writer Roald Dahl wrote many of his most famous stories from the comfort of his own shed in England. Therefore, it is essential that you have an idea of what will occur in your shed before deciding about roofing material.
For example, if you plan to set up a plant nursery full of potting plants, a basic shingle roof should suffice. However, if, like Roald Dahl, you want to use your shed to write the next best-selling novel, you will need something far sturdier and able to keep out the elements sufficiently.
Consider Your Budget
As previously mentioned, your budget will also dictate the roof you end up with. While you shouldn’t let the budget be the be-all and end-all of the decision, you also want to avoid spending a fortune unless, of course, you want to. However, for most mere mortals, the amount of money you can put towards a new roof will be limited.
Therefore, you should set a limit on what you are comfortable with and go from there. Nevertheless, if you find a material that fits your other requirements perfectly, you shouldn’t be afraid to add to it; the key point is to set a budget so that you can begin your search.
Ensure It Can Withstand Harsh Climates
It isn’t possible to recommend a specific roof because those reading this post will live in different areas, each with varying patterns of weather and climates. Therefore, you should consider the environment when selecting a material to build with.
If you live in areas prone to inclement weather, you might opt for a sturdy metal roof that can be adequately secured to the rest of the structure. Conversely, if you live in an area with dry heat most of the year, wooden shingles should suffice.
Choose Your Material
Once you have your budget in place, you know how you will use the building and what aether you are dealing with, and you can move on to the material selection. Luckily, you have plenty of choices when it comes to shedding roofing.
Metal
Metal is an excellent choice because it is durable and affordable in most cases. However, the primary downsides are that it isn’t an excellent insulator, meaning it will be cold in the winter and hot in the summer. Moreover, if you plan on getting any kind of mentally rigorous work done during a thunderstorm, you will need to wear a pair of ear defenders!
Wood
Wood has typically been the go-to option for most basic sheds due to its affordability, ease of use, and relative durability. Even with the increase in timber prices, wood is still the most affordable option compared to other choices. However, unless you treat it correctly or leave it exposed to the elements, it is likely to rot pretty quickly, requiring frequent replacements.
Cedar Shingles
Cedar shingles are made from thin layers of wood, which are then glued together with a hot, liquid pitch. The result is a type of construction material that can be used as roofing or siding. Cedar shingles have been widely used for their natural beauty and durability.
The main reason why cedar shingles are so popular today is that they have natural protection against fire and rot. They also have a fantastic smell and provide good insulation properties. However, they can be costly depending on where you are in the world.
Bitumen-Felt Shingles
Bitumen-felt shingles are a type of roofing material made from bitumen-coated felt. The felt is coated with asphalt to create a durable surface that is weather resistant. The asphalt coating also makes the shingle fireproof and termite resistant. This option typically provides the best protection outside of metal.
Artificial Turf
This one is a bit of a curveball but worth considering if you value aesthetics. Moreover, this kind of turf can often provide excellent protection against the weather. However, you still need to attach it to another material to make the base of the roof.
Make Sure It Matches Your Garden’s Style
Regardless of how much you like the look of a shed at the bottom of your garden, you ultimately want it to blend into the overall style as much as possible. Therefore, any roof you choose should match the style of your yard.
A shed is a place of work and sometimes a sanctuary from the outside world. Therefore, you should take care when choosing the roof as this can make or break the entire experience. Using the tips in this post, you should end up with a roof that protects you from the weather, keeps the contents safe, and looks fantastic.
