The roofing material is often overlooked when shopping for garden sheds. This is the layer that sits over the roof boards for weather protection. Whether this is your first purchase or you’re upgrading, this guide will help you decide which option is best for your needs. Read on.
Common Types of Wooden Shed Roof Materials
EPDM, felt, shingles, metal, and tiles are among the common shed roof options on the UK market. Of all these, two stand out: EPDM and felt. Both are durable, need little upkeep, and reasonably priced.
The others do work, but they’re usually heavier and cost more (in the case of metal and tiles). Shingles also look nice and can last, but they take more effort to fit and replace.
Ethylene propylene diene monomer, or EPDM, is a synthetic rubber material known for its resistance to heavy rain, wind, and UV exposure. It can be installed without using heat; instead, it’s applied with adhesives, tapes, or mechanical fasteners – something you can do yourself.
Felt, on the other hand, is cheaper and easier to fit as well, especially if you have a small shed. It’s made from bitumen and fibres, making it lightweight and flexible for a roofing layer. Its lifespan is shorter than EPDM, but it’s a low cost material for owners on a budget.
EPDM Rubber vs Felt Shed Roof Materials
Take a quick look at how these two options compare to see which suits your shed storage needs:
| Feature | EPDM Rubber | Felt Roofing |
|---|---|---|
| Installation cost | Higher upfront but a good long-term investment – around £80 to £120 / m² | Lower upfront; easy to replace – around £40 to £80 / m² |
| Longevity | 30+ years with proper installation | Around 8 to 15 years depending on quality |
| Maintenance | Very low. It resists leaks, rot, and UV damage | Can peel or tear; may need occasional patching |
| Pros/Cons | Waterproof, flexible, suited for flat-ish roofs; higher initial cost | Lightweight, simple to fit, affordable; requires more upkeep |
| Best for | Shed owners who want a long-lasting, low-maintenance roof | Shed owners on a budget or with a smaller structure |
You probably know these options, but seeing them laid out makes it easier to weigh their perks and quirks. One of them might suit your shed better than the two above:
| Feature | Shingles | Metal Roofing | Tiles |
|---|---|---|---|
| Installation cost | Moderate; depends on type – around £50 to £80 / m² | Higher upfront – around £35 to £45 / m² | High; usually the most expensive – around £90+ / m² |
| Longevity | 15 to 25 years | 25+ years | 30+ years |
| Maintenance | Needs occasional patching; easy to replace sections | Low maintenance; check for rust once in a while | Low maintenance but can crack or break; may need repairs |
| Pros/Cons | Attractive, flexible, fairly lightweight; more effort to fit | Durable, lightweight, fire-resistant; can be noisy in rain, higher upfront | Very durable, long-lasting, strong appearance; heavy, costly, harder to install |
| Best for | Sheds that could do with a more attractive finish, DIY-friendly installation | Families wanting durable, low-maintenance roofing | Larger sheds or premium builds |
Key takeaways
- EPDM = long-lasting, low hassle
- Felt = cheaper, quicker, more upkeep
- Consider your budget and how much attention you’re willing to give your shed roof over the years
If you’re interested in wooden shed kits that come with complete mineral felt, fixtures, and fittings, we have something for you below:
FAQs
Can I mix roofing materials on the same shed?
Yes, it’s possible. For instance, an EPDM flat roof with a small section of shingles. But when doing so, make sure the layers are compatible and the transitions are well sealed to prevent leaks.
Do shed roofs need insulation?
You don’t usually need it, but adding a layer of insulation can help keep your shed cooler in summer, warmer in winter, and protect anything you store inside from frost. Thin insulation boards under the roofing layer are common for this.
How steep should a shed roof be for EPDM or felt?
EPDM works best on flat or low-sloped roofs, while felt can handle slightly steeper pitches. Avoid very steep angles with these materials, as water runoff and wind can reduce their lifespan if not installed right.
