The majority of sheds tend to have the basic standard roofing, which is felt. While there are different grades of shed roof felt, there are also a number of other options worth considering. In this article, I want to list and describe some of the most common types and also introduce you to some roofing materials that you might not have thought of. Plus, I’ll cover the best materials and tools for shed building to help you choose the most durable and cost-effective options for your project.
The shed roof is an important and integral part of any shed. It keeps the shed watertight and prevents the building from being exposed to the elements. A strong and durable roof is essential to the whole structure, but keeping rain and snow out is its primary function.
Whether you’re building a DIY shed, upgrading a recently purchased flat-pack shed or renewing an existing shed roof, all of the following are viable options. Here’s a list of the shed roofing types I’ll be discussing in more detail:
- Shed Roofing Felt
- Roofing Shingles
- EPDM Rubber Roofing
- Corrugated Bitumen Roofing
- Clay and Slate Tiles
- Recycled Plastic Tiles
- Metal Roofing Sheets
- Cedar Roofing Shingles
Table of Contents
- Best Shed Roofing Options Overview
- Shed Roofing Felt – An Entry-Level Option
- Shed Roofing Shingles – A Stylish and Durable Option
- Budget
- Mid Range
- High End
- EPDM Roofing for Sheds
- EPDM Grades, Sizes, and Pricing
- Corrugated Bitumen Roofing
- Clay and Slate Roof Tiles for Shed Roofs
- Recycled Plastic Slate Roof Tiles
- Metal Roofing for Sheds
- Insulated Metal Roofing Sheets
- Western Red Cedar Shingle Tiles: A Natural, Durable Roofing Option
Best Shed Roofing Options Overview
| Roofing Material | Life Expectancy | Weight Class | Ease of Installation (1 easy – 5 pro) | Suitable for Pent/Flat/Pitched Roof | Cost per m² | Size Availability |
| Shed Roofing Felt | 5 – 15 years | Light | 1 | Pent & Pitched | £2.80 – £5.63 | 10m x 1m (Standard), 8m x 1m (Super) |
| Roofing Shingles | 15 – 30 years | Light | 2 | Pitched | £12.50 – £25.00 | Varies by brand |
| EPDM Rubber Roofing | 25 – 30 years | Medium | 4 | All | £12.00 – £18.00 | Custom cut (up to 30m length, 15m width) |
| Corrugated Bitumen | 15 – 25 years | Light | 2 | Pent & Pitched | £7.89 – £9.47 | 2m x 0.95m |
| Clay & Slate Tiles | Clay 50 – 100 years Slate 100 – 200 years | Heavy | 5 | Pitched above 30 degrees | £108 – £132 | All different sizes |
| Recycled Plastic Tiles | 30 – 50 years | Medium | 4 | Pitched & pent above 20 degree | £60.00 | 305mm x 440mm per tile (Pack of 16 covers 1m²) |
| Metal Roofing Sheets | 40 -70 years | Medium | 3 | Pent & Pitched | £11.13 – £48.00 | 2m x 1m up to 6m x 1m |
| Cedar Wooden Shingles | 30 – 50 years | Medium | 4 | Pent & Pitched | £42.40 | Available in different sizes |
Flat, Pent or Pitched Roof Description
- Flat Roof – Almost level, with a slight slope for drainage. Common on modern buildings and sheds.
- Pent Roof – A single sloped roof, higher on one side. Often used for sheds and small structures.
- Pitched Roof – A traditional triangular roof with two or more slopes. Common on houses and larger buildings.
Shed Roofing Felt – An Entry-Level Option
Roofing felt is a popular and cost-effective way to protect your shed. It provides a waterproof barrier against the elements. It is lightweight, easy to install, and can be replaced with minimal effort when needed. However, it does have some drawbacks—its lifespan is relatively short, and over time, it can become brittle and prone to tearing. While it offers a quick and affordable roofing solution, those looking for a more durable option may want to consider alternatives.
Different Types of Roofing Felt
Standard and Super Shed Roofing Felt
Standard roofing felt like IKO’s Weatherproof Bituminous Glass Fibre Shed Felt – comes in a 10m x 1m roll and is 1mm thick. It has a life expectancy of only 5 years. While it has a good reputation and is manufactured to a high standard it is an entry-level product and would best suit sheds that are well protected from strong winds, do not have any overhanging trees and might best suit those on a tight budget.
Super roofing felt from IKO is manufactured with a slightly different material: Bituminous Polyester. This material is more durable, thicker at 1.5mm, and has a life expectancy of 15 years. This Super product does cost about £17 more for a roll, but with three times the life expectancy, it’s generally the favoured option. Please note that these rolls are only 8m in length compared to the standard felt rolls.
Installation
Both of these types of felt roofing can be installed by nailing them to the roof boards using 13mm x 3mm galvanised tacks and can be accompanied by a shed felt adhesive for a secure and watertight finish around edges and joins.
Shed Roofing Shingles – A Stylish and Durable Option
Shed roofing shingles offer a step up from traditional roofing felt, providing a more visually appealing and durable roofing solution. Made from bitumen-based material, these shingles combine the practicality of roofing felt with the added benefit of a tiled appearance, giving your shed a more professional and finished look.
Shingles are available in a variety of shapes and styles, including rectangular, hexagonal, and scalloped designs, allowing you to customise the look of your shed roof to suit your preference. They come in different colours and finishes, making them a great choice if aesthetics are a priority.
Why Choose Roofing Shingles?
- Improved Aesthetics – Unlike plain felt rolls, shingles have a textured, layered appearance that mimics traditional roof tiles.
- Durability – While made from bitumen like standard felt, shingles are typically thicker and last longer due to their overlapping installation.
- Flexibility – Available in different shapes and colours to match various shed styles.
- Weather Resistance – Overlapping layers improve water runoff and reduce the risk of leaks.
- Moderate Cost – More expensive than standard felt but more affordable than premium roofing options like EPDM or metal sheets.
Pricing
Costs can vary depending on the style of shingles you purchase but expect to pay between £25 and £50 for a 2m2 pack. Here are some examples to choose from. I’ve linked to Roofing Superstore who offer the most extensive range of shingles I have seen.
What You Need for Installation
To ensure a durable and watertight finish, roofing shingles require some additional materials:
- Roofing Felt Underlay – This adds an extra layer of waterproofing beneath the shingles, reducing the risk of moisture penetration.
- Detailing Strip – Needed to neatly finish edges along the eaves, verge, and ridge for a professional appearance.
- Galvanised Roofing Tacks (13mm-20mm) – Used to secure the shingles in place.
- Roofing Adhesive (Bitumen Sealant) – Helps create a watertight bond, particularly at edges and overlapping sections.
Installation Guide
With a basic list of tools you should be able to install shingles following these instructions.
EPDM Roofing for Sheds
EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) rubber roofing is another option most commonly used for flat roofs and insulated garden rooms. However, it still makes a great option for shed roofing, whether it’s a single-pitched (pent roof) or a dual-pitched roof. This single-ply membrane is known for its durability and long lifespan, making it a great choice for those looking for a more robust and low-maintenance shed roof.
Why Choose EPDM Roofing?
EPDM is highly resistant to weathering, UV rays, and extreme temperatures, making it ideal for sheds exposed to harsh conditions. It is also highly flexible, allowing it to expand and contract with temperature fluctuations without cracking or degrading. It’s also naturally resistant to algae, mould, and mildew growth, which can be an issue for sheds in damp, shaded areas.
One of the key benefits of EPDM is its longevity. Unlike traditional roofing felt, which typically has a lifespan of 5-15 years, EPDM can last up to 50 years with minimal maintenance. This makes it a great long-term investment if you’re looking to avoid frequent repairs or roof replacements.
EPDM Grades, Sizes, and Pricing
EPDM rubber roofing is typically available in two thickness options: 1.1mm (045 grade) and 1.5mm (060 grade). The thicker 1.5mm option provides a more durable and long-lasting finish compared to the 1.1mm version. Some manufacturers may also offer slight variations, such as 1.2mm thickness, but the core choices remain the same.
One of the key benefits of EPDM is that it is cut to size, allowing for a seamless, single-sheet installation. It can be custom-cut to any length between 0.5m and 30m, with a maximum width of 15m, ensuring full coverage for sheds of almost any size.
In terms of cost, expect to pay around £12 per m² for the thinner grade and approximately £18 per m² for the thicker grade. Additionally, installation materials such as adhesives and edge trims will be required to properly secure the roofing. Be sure to factor these extra costs into your budget when choosing EPDM for your shed roof.
Installation of EPDM Roofing
Installing EPDM roofing is more involved than applying felt or shingles, but it is still manageable for most DIYers. The process typically involves laying a large sheet of EPDM across the roof, ensuring it is properly aligned, and then securing it with adhesive. The EPDM membrane is usually ordered with a 40cm overhang around each edge and then trimmed down once installed on the roof.
Here’s a great video demonstrating the installation process.
Considerations for EPDM Roofing
While EPDM is an excellent choice for durability and long-term performance, it may not be the most cost-effective option upfront. The material itself can be more expensive than felt or shingles, and installation can require more time and expertise, particularly when sealing the edges and seams correctly. However, the long-term savings on repairs and replacements, combined with its resistance to wear and tear, make it a great value for those willing to invest in a high-quality shed roof.
Corrugated Bitumen Roofing
Corrugated bitumen roofing sheets are a durable and cost-effective option for shed roofing, due to their excellent weather resistance and appealing finish. Made from bitumen-saturated organic fibres, these sheets are lightweight, flexible, and easy to install, making them a popular choice for any DIY enthusiast.
Types of Corrugated Bitumen Roofing Sheets
There are two main products available on the market:
Coroline Corrugated Bitumen Sheets
Coroline sheets measure 2 meters in length and 950mm in width, designed for durability and ease of installation. They are available in black, green, brown, and red, allowing you to match different shed designs. Coroline sheets are lightweight (2.9kg/m²) and resistant to environmental factors, making them an excellent choice for standard shed roofing projects where a balance of affordability and performance is required.
Pricing starts from £15 for a 2m x 0.95m sheet. Find a range of Coroline roofing sheets and accessories here:
Coroline Roofing Sheets & AccessoriesOnduline Corrugated Bitumen Sheets
Onduline sheets, also sized at 2 meters by 950mm, offer enhanced performance compared to Coroline. They are slightly heavier (3.3kg/m²) and thicker (3mm vs. 2.6mm), making them a more robust option for sheds in exposed locations, taller buildings, or areas with high wind loads. Onduline is also BBA-approved, providing additional quality assurance, and costs around £2.50 more per sheet than Coroline.
Pricing from £18 per 2m x 0.95m sheet. Find a selection of Oduline roofing sheets and accessories here:
Onduline Roofing Sheets & AccessoriesCoroline vs. Onduline: Key Similarities
Despite these differences, both Coroline and Onduline share several advantages:
- Durability – Made from bitumen-saturated organic fibres, processed under high pressure and heat for long-lasting strength.
- 15-Year Waterproofing Guarantee – Ensuring reliable protection against the elements.
- Color Retention & UV Resistance – Thanks to a pigment and resin impregnation process, preventing fading and degradation.
- Eco-Friendly & Safe – Asbestos-free, non-toxic, and environmentally friendly, making them suitable for various applications.
- Color Options – Available in black, green, brown, and red, with a translucent PVC option for natural light transmission.
- Complete Roofing System – Matching verge, ridge pieces, fixings, and eaves fillers are available for a professional, weatherproof finish.
Choosing between them will depend on budget, exposure to harsh conditions, and any specific project needs.
Installing Corrugated Bitumen Roofing
Here’s a preview of a typical installation for Guttapral K10 Corrugated Bitumen roofing sheets.
Essential Accessories for Installation
To ensure a secure and weatherproof installation, consider the following accessories:
- Ridge Caps: These are used to cover the apex of the roof where two slopes meet, providing a watertight seal and a neat finish.
- Fixings: Specialised nails or screws with waterproof caps are designed to securely attach the sheets to the shed structure, preventing water ingress at the fixing points.
- Verges or Gable Edges: These are used to finish the edges of the roof, protecting the exposed ends of the corrugated sheets from wind uplift and water penetration.
- Ridge Trays: Particularly useful for lean-to structures, ridge trays support the corrugated sheets at the ridge, ensuring a snug fit and additional waterproofing.
Nailing Installation Guidance
For further installation guidance please refer to the listing on Amazon here.
Benefits of Corrugated Bitumen Roofing
- Weather Resistance: These sheets offer excellent protection against rain, snow, and UV rays, ensuring the longevity of your shed roof.
- Ease of Installation: Lightweight and flexible, corrugated bitumen sheets can be easily cut to size and installed without the need for specialised tools or equipment.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Available in various colours and profiles, these sheets can enhance the visual appeal of your shed, allowing for customisation to match your preferences.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Offering a balance between affordability and durability, corrugated bitumen roofing is a cost-effective solution for shed owners seeking long-term value.
Clay and Slate Roof Tiles for Shed Roofs
If you are looking to add a traditional, high-end finish to your shed, clay and slate roof tiles offer an attractive and long-lasting solution. While more commonly used on houses, these materials can provide a premium aesthetic and superior durability for shed roofs.
Clay Roof Tiles
Clay tiles have been used in roofing for centuries, known for their timeless appearance, durability, and natural weather resistance.
Key Features:
- Aesthetic Appeal – Classic and elegant, available in a range of earthy tones such as terracotta, red, and brown.
- Longevity – A properly installed clay tile roof can last 50 years or more, requiring little maintenance.
- Weather Resistance – Naturally resistant to rain, snow, and UV exposure, making them ideal for sheds in harsher climates.
- Fireproof – Unlike many other shed roofing materials, clay tiles are non-combustible.
Considerations:
- Weight – Clay tiles are significantly heavier than felt, bitumen, or metal roofing, requiring a reinforced shed structure.
- Minimum Pitch – Requires a minimum pitch of 35 degrees and is therefore not suitable for flat shed roofs.
- Installation Complexity – These tiles must be laid individually and secured with appropriate fixings, making installation more labour-intensive.
- Cost – One of the more expensive shed roofing options, but with a long lifespan and premium finish. Expect to pay around £1.80 per tile with an average of 60 tiles per square meter.
Find more information on the Roofing Superstore site here:
Sandtoft Humber Plain Clay Tile & Half – Natural RedSlate Roof Tiles
Natural slate is a highly durable and stylish roofing material, ideal for those wanting to match their shed roof to a house or garden structure.
Key Features:
- Natural Beauty – Offers a sophisticated, elegant look, available in shades of grey, black, blue, and green.
- Exceptional Durability – With a lifespan of over 100 years, slate is one of the longest-lasting roofing materials.
- Low Maintenance – Slate requires very little upkeep and is resistant to moss, mould, and pests.
- Waterproof & Fireproof – Naturally impermeable to water and completely non-combustible.
Considerations:
- Structural Requirements – Like clay tiles, slate is heavy, meaning the shed must be reinforced to support the extra load.
- Roof pitch – Suitable for roof pitches as low as 30 degrees. Not suitable for flat roofing.
- Installation Complexity – Requires specialist skills and tools for cutting and fixing, making professional installation advisable.
- Cost – A premium option, but its incredible lifespan offsets the initial investment. Expect to pay around £2.20 per slate tile with approximately 20 tiles per square meter.
Are Clay or Slate Tiles Right for Your Shed?
While clay and slate tiles offer unmatched durability and style, they are not the easiest or cheapest option for a shed roof. They work best for larger, more permanent garden buildings where aesthetics and longevity are a priority. If weight and cost are concerns, consider lightweight alternatives like synthetic slate or clay-effect roofing sheets for a similar look with easier installation.
Recycled Plastic Slate Roof Tiles
Recycled plastic slate roof tiles offer an eco-friendly and durable alternative to traditional slate, combining the aesthetic appeal of natural slate with the benefits of modern materials.
Key Features:
- Material Composition: Manufactured from 100% recycled plastic, these tiles provide a sustainable roofing solution.
- Lightweight: Significantly lighter than natural slate, they reduce structural load, making them suitable for a variety of building types.
- Durability: The plastic composition ensures resistance to cracking, chipping, and breaking, common issues with natural slate.
- Flexibility: Their pliable nature allows for easy installation on roofs with pitches as low as 10°, as well as on curved structures.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Designed to mimic the appearance of natural slate, they are available in various colours to complement different architectural styles.
Advantages:
- Eco-Friendly: Utilising recycled materials reduces environmental impact and promotes sustainability.
- Ease of Installation: The lightweight and flexible properties simplify handling and installation, potentially reducing labour costs.
- Low Maintenance: Resistant to moss, algae growth, and UV damage, these tiles require minimal upkeep over their lifespan.
Considerations:
- Cost: While the initial investment may be higher than some traditional materials, the long-term benefits and durability can offset the upfront expense. Expect to pay around £60 for a 1m square coverage, pack of 12 tiles.
- Roof Pitch: Suitable for roofs with a pitch as low as 13 degrees.
- Thermal Expansion: As with all plastic materials, allowance for thermal expansion and contraction during installation is essential to maintain roof integrity.
Recycled plastic slate roof tiles present a practical and sustainable roofing option, delivering the classic look of slate without the associated drawbacks of weight and fragility.
Metal Roofing for Sheds
Metal roofing is an excellent choice for shed roofs, offering strength, longevity, and weather resistance. It is ideal for those looking for a low-maintenance, durable roofing solution that can withstand harsh conditions. Metal roofing is also fire-resistant, lightweight, and recyclable, making it a sustainable and practical option for various shed designs.
There are several types of metal roofing sheets available, each with its own advantages:
Corrugated Metal Roofing
Corrugated metal sheets are one of the most popular and cost-effective metal roofing options. Recognisable by their wavy, ridged pattern, these sheets provide exceptional strength and water drainage, making them highly resistant to heavy rain and snow.
Key Features:
- Durable and rust-resistant when coated with protective finishes like galvanized or polyester coatings.
- Lightweight, reducing the load on the shed’s structure.
- Affordable, making it a budget-friendly choice for shed owners.
- Available in various colors and finishes, allowing for aesthetic customization.
Considerations:
- Can be noisy during heavy rain unless additional insulation is used.
- Requires proper fastening to prevent wind uplift.
Pricing starts around £34 for 1m x 3m (950mm x 3050mm) corrugated metal sheet.
Box Profile Metal Roofing Sheets
Box profile metal sheets are a modern alternative to traditional corrugated sheets. Instead of a wavy pattern, they feature trapezoidal ridges, which provide a sleek appearance and superior strength.
Key Features:
- Stronger and more rigid than traditional corrugated sheets, making them ideal for larger sheds.
- Greater water runoff efficiency due to deep grooves.
- Smoother, more modern look compared to corrugated metal.
- Can be coated with PVC plastisol, polyester, or galvanized finishes for enhanced durability.
Considerations:
- Slightly more expensive than corrugated sheets.
- Still requires proper insulation to minimise noise and condensation.
Pricing starts at around £42 for a 1m x 3m (0.7mm thick) sheet of box profile metal roofing.
Insulated Metal Roofing Sheets
For those looking for superior thermal and sound insulation, insulated metal roofing sheets are the best choice. These sheets consist of a metal outer layer, an insulating foam core, and a protective inner layer, offering enhanced temperature control.
Key Features:
- Reduces heat loss in winter and keeps sheds cooler in summer.
- Minimizes condensation, preventing moisture damage inside the shed.
- Significantly reduces noise, making them ideal for workspaces or garden offices.
- Available in various thicknesses to suit different insulation needs.
Considerations:
- More expensive than standard metal roofing options.
- Heavier, requiring a stronger shed frame for support.
Pricing starts at around £144 for a 1m x 3m (40mm thick) sheet.
Is Metal Roofing Right for Your Shed?
Metal roofing is an excellent long-term investment, especially for sheds in exposed locations where durability and weather resistance are key. Corrugated sheets offer an affordable, traditional option, while box profile sheets provide a modern, rigid alternative. For those seeking energy efficiency and noise reduction, insulated metal sheets are the best choice.
Regardless of the type chosen, proper installation and ventilation are essential to maximise the lifespan and performance of a metal shed roof.
Western Red Cedar Shingle Tiles: A Natural, Durable Roofing Option
Western Red Cedar shingles offer a premium, natural roofing material known for its beauty, durability, and environmental benefits. They are a popular choice for those looking to enhance the aesthetic appeal of their shed or building while ensuring long-term performance. These shingles are made from high-quality, sustainably sourced wood, offering a rustic, warm appearance that blends seamlessly with natural surroundings.
Features of Western Red Cedar Shingles:
- Aesthetic Appeal: Western Red Cedar is renowned for its rich, reddish-brown color and distinctive grain patterns. Over time, the shingles will age to a silvery-gray patina, which many people find attractive and adds to the material’s charm.
- Durability: Western Red Cedar is naturally resistant to decay, rot, and insect damage, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a roofing material that stands the test of time. It’s known to outperform many other wood roofing materials in terms of longevity, with a lifespan of 30-50 years, depending on maintenance and environmental conditions.
- Eco-friendly: This material is sustainably harvested, making it an environmentally conscious choice. Western Red Cedar is also a renewable resource, which adds to its appeal for eco-minded consumers.
- Natural Insulation: Cedar naturally offers insulating properties, helping to keep your building cool in summer and warm in winter. This makes it a great option for garden buildings or sheds used as workshops or offices.
- Weather Resistance: Thanks to its natural oils, Western Red Cedar is highly resistant to harsh weather conditions, such as UV exposure, rain, and snow, allowing it to maintain its integrity even in challenging climates.
Pricing and Availability:
Western Red Cedar shingles are available for purchase in a variety of pack sizes. The JB Western Red Cedar Wood Shingles (Red Label) sold by Roofing Superstore covers 2.28m² per pack. The price is approximately £97.99 per pack, offering a natural and long-lasting solution for those looking for an upscale, sustainable roof.
See Roofing Superstore listing hereConsiderations for Installation:
- Installation: Installing cedar shingles requires a bit more effort compared to traditional roofing materials. It is important to lay the shingles with overlapping courses to prevent leaks, and ensure proper ventilation under the roof for air circulation. This type of roofing is best suited for sloped roofs (with a pitch of 15 degrees or more).
- Maintenance: While Western Red Cedar shingles are low-maintenance, it’s a good idea to periodically inspect them for any loose or damaged tiles, especially after severe weather conditions. A protective coating or treatment can also be applied to maintain the wood’s natural color and further enhance its weather resistance.
Is Western Red Cedar Shingle Roofing Right for You?
Western Red Cedar shingles are an excellent choice for those looking for a sustainable, attractive, and long-lasting roofing material. Whether you are looking to add rustic charm to your shed, garden room, or even a house extension, these shingles deliver an eco-friendly, durable, and visually appealing solution. Though it requires a slightly higher upfront investment compared to more common materials like felt or metal roofing, the longevity and natural beauty of Western Red Cedar make it a worthwhile choice for many shed owners.
With proper care and maintenance, these shingles will continue to provide a premium and durable finish that enhances the aesthetic of your property for decades.
I’m sure there are many more roofing options available but hopefully, I’ve covered the most popular with enough detail to help you make an informed decision. If you have better recommendations please share them in the comments section below.
Thanks for reading
