When it comes to choosing the right roofing materials for your shed, you want to make sure you select options that are durable, weather-resistant, and budget-friendly. The roof is one of the most important components of any shed, as it protects the structure and contents from rain, snow, sun, and wind. Investing in quality roofing materials will pay off in the long run by extending the lifespan of your shed.
There are several factors to consider when selecting shed roofing materials, including climate, budget, weight, longevity, and ease of installation. In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the pros and cons of the most popular roofing materials for sheds to help you make an informed decision.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are one of the most common and affordable roofing options for sheds. They are composed of a fiberglass mat coated with asphalt and come in a wide variety of colors and styles.
Pros of Asphalt Shingles:
- Budget-friendly pricing
- Easy to install
- Wide variety of colors and styles
- Readily available at home improvement stores
- Long lifespan of 20-30 years
Cons of Asphalt Shingles:
- Vulnerable to damage from hail, falling branches, foot traffic
- Can deteriorate faster in hot, sunny climates
- Not as durable as metal or tile roofing
Asphalt shingles offer an attractive, lightweight, and wallet-friendly roofing choice for basic backyard sheds and workshops. They come in popular architectural styles like three-tab and dimensional shingles. The most affordable option is basic three-tab shingles, while dimensional shingles are thicker and offer a more dramatic, textured look.
We recommend using at least 30-year architectural shingles for shed roofs to maximize durability. The higher-quality materials resist damage better than cheaper options. When properly installed, asphalt shingles can provide many years of reliable protection. They make an excellent choice for DIY-friendly shed roofing.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofs are one of the most durable and weather-resistant options for shed and outbuildings. Premium metal roofs can withstand extreme weather conditions and last 40 years or longer.
Pros of Metal Roofing:
- Extremely durable and long-lasting
- Withstands high winds, hail, falling branches
- Resists rot, mold, mildew, and insects
- Fire resistant
- Large variety of colors and styles
- Requires little maintenance
- High resale value
Cons of Metal Roofing:
- Higher upfront cost
- Produces noise from rain/hail (can add insulation)
- Care must be taken to avoid dents during installation
- Can rust if low quality or if finish degrades
There are several types of metal roofing materials to consider:
- Corrugated metal – Classic, affordable option with wave-like ridges. Galvanized steel and aluminum are common.
- Standing seam – No exposed fasteners. Panels interlock for durability and watertightness. More expensive but very strong.
- Metal shingles – Mimic shake/slate. Often made of steel or aluminum. Lightweight and easy to install.
- Stone-coated steel – Ceramic-coated metal for style/protection. Excellent durability.
When installed properly, metal sheds roofs can withstand winds up to 140 mph and shed snow easily. Rust-resistant finishes and sturdy construction allow quality metal roofs to perform consistently for decades. Overall, metal is an ideal blend of strength and aesthetic appeal for shed roofs.
Rubber Roofing
Rubber roofing (EPDM) provides excellent weather resistance at a lower cost than other durable options. The thick, flexible rubber sheets are completely waterproof and easy for DIY installation.
Pros of Rubber Roofing:
- Seamless waterproofing
- Hail/UV/mold/mildew resistant
- Long lifespan of up to 50 years
- Low maintenance/easy repairs
- Energy efficient
- Affordable compared to other commercial-grade options
Cons of Rubber Roofing:
- Easy to puncture if not protected
- Can fade over time
- Not fire resistant
- Limited color options
Rubber roofing is a top choice for flat or low-slope shed roofs. The flexible sheets can stretch and seal around vents/protrusions easily. Use high-density insulation boards underneath for added protection.
For sloped shed roofs, reinforce seams with sealant tape and avoid walking on the surface to prevent tears. Rubber roofing holds up very well in cold climates too since the material remains flexible. Overall, rubber sheeting makes a smart, resilient shed roof with minimal upkeep required.
Wood Shakes/Shingles
Wood roofing shingles provide a classic, rustic look while performing well in many climates. Western red cedar and redwood are naturally rot-resistant woods used for long-lasting shake/shingle roofs.
Pros of Wood Shingles/Shakes:
- Beautiful, natural aesthetic
- Doesn’t dent, rust or conduct heat
- Fire resistant
- Insulating properties
- Long lifespan (30+ years)
Cons of Wood Shingles/Shakes:
- Relatively expensive
- Requires regular sealing/treatment
- Not very durable in high winds or storms
- Risk of mold, rot without proper installation
Wood shingles come in different styles:
- Shakes – Hand split or sawn. Rustic, varied appearance.
- Shingles – Uniform, machine cut. More refined look.
Proper installation is crucial for wood roofs. Allow for adequate ventilation underneath and use flashing around joints. Apply weather sealant/preservative every 2-3 years.
Cedar and redwood contain natural oils that resist water, but regular maintenance is still required in wet climates. Overall, real wood brings timeless charm to shed roofs in sheltered locations. The natural insulating properties also help moderate interior temperatures.
Tile Roofing
Tile shed roofs provide exceptional durability, fire resistance, and classic curb appeal. Clay and concrete are the most common tile materials.
Pros of Tile Roofing:
- Extremely durable – lasts 50-100 years
- Fireproof and wind/hail/pest resistant
- Excellent rain/snow shedding
- Energy efficient from air pockets
- High resale value
- Beautiful appearance
Cons of Tile Roofing:
- Very heavy – requires solid framing
- Brittle tiles can crack
- Higher upfront cost
- Professional installation recommended
Spanish clay tiles are the premium option, while cheaper concrete tiles mimic the look at lower cost. Interlocking tiles avoid leaks better than overlapping tiles.
Use at least 30lb waterproof underlayment felt beneath tiles. Adequate roof framing and pitch prevent issues from the heavy weight. Proper installation is key.
Tile shed roofs offer unmatched elegance and protection. Their insulating qualities also keep interiors cooler. Tile excellently handles wet climates if adequately pitched to drain. Overall, tiles make a wise investment for high-end sheds where appearance matters.
Rolled Roofing
Rolled roofing is an affordable temporary or permanent option for sheds when installed properly. The asphalt-coated sheets are quick and simple for DIYers to apply.
Pros of Rolled Roofing:
- Budget-friendly
- Very easy installation – roof in one day
- Seals around fasteners to resist leaks
- Can last 10-15 years if maintained
Cons of Rolled Roofing:
- Less durable than shingles or metal
- Needs frequent re-coating and patching
- Not designed for low slope/flat roofs
- Can blister and degrade faster in some climates
There are two main types of rolled roofing:
- Smooth – Basic asphalt-saturated felt. Low cost but less durable.
- Mineral-Surfaced – Topped with protective granules. Better life span.
We recommend using mineral-surfaced rolls which better resist UV rays and foot traffic. Apply a reflective coating every few years to renew weather protection. Rolled roofing works best for minor shed/garage projects as a short-term solution. It requires diligent maintenance to reach its lifespan potential.
PVC Roofing
PVC plastic roofing provides an affordable, lightweight alternative to metal or shingles. PVC panels are molded from durable vinyl resins for easy DIY installation.
Pros of PVC Roofing:
- Budget-friendly
- Extremely lightweight
- Easy to install – no special tools needed
- Long lifespan of 30+ years
- Low maintenance
- Resists mold, mildew, salt damage
Cons of PVC Roofing:
- Not fire resistant
- Can crack/warp if not properly supported
- Limited color/style options
- Damaged panels must be fully replaced
PVC roofing panels feature overlapping edges that interlock for weather resistance. Use at least 3/4″ panels for sufficient durability. Panels often come with matching trims/accessories.
Support panels fully underneath to prevent warping, especially on hot days. Avoid walking on the roof. Overall, PVC makes a very lightweight and affordable option for simple shed roof projects, though durability is lower than premium materials.
Shed Roofing Material Comparison Chart
| Material | Durability | Cost | DIY Install? | Fire Resistant? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asphalt Shingles | 15-30 yrs | $ | Yes | No |
| Metal | 40+ yrs | $$ | Possible | Yes |
| Rubber (EPDM) | 50 yrs | $ | Yes | No |
| Wood Shakes/Shingles | 30+ yrs | $$ | Challenging | Yes |
| Concrete/Clay Tiles | 50-100 yrs | $$$ | Challenging | Yes |
| Rolled Roofing | 10-15 yrs | $ | Yes | No |
| PVC | 30+ yrs | $ | Yes | No |
This comparison chart summarizes the key differences between popular shed roofing materials. As you can see, each option has pros and cons to consider before making the optimal choice for your specific needs and budget.
Key Considerations When Selecting Shed Roof Materials
There are several important factors to think through when weighing your shed roofing options:
Climate Conditions
Select materials suitable for the weather patterns in your region. For wet climates, prioritize enhanced water shedding ability from metal or tile roofs. In sunny climates, increased UV/heat resistance prevents faster degradation.
Roof Pitch/Slope
Steeper pitched roofs better facilitate rainwater runoff. Shingles and tiles require proper slope to drain effectively. Flat or low-slope roofs limit material options.
Budget
Compare the upfront costs and lifespan value of different materials. More expensive options like tile and metal last longer to balance out their initial price tag.
Shed Size and Framing
The size and structural support of the shed must match the roofing material weight. Heavy tiles need a stronger frame than lightweight metal or plastic panels.
Installation Difficulty
Consider DIY-friendly options like shingles and rolled roofing versus materials like tile that often require hiring professional installers.
Local Building Codes
Check if certain roofing types are prohibited. Some HOAs restrict metal roofs. Building codes may require specific underlayments too.
By evaluating all these factors, you can zero in on the ideal roofing solutions for your particular shed.
Installing Shed Roofing Materials
Proper installation techniques are crucial for any shed roofing system to maximize durability. Here are some best practices to follow:
- Create a sturdy roof deck with minimum 5/8” plywood or OSB sheathing properly gapped for drainage.
- Install 30lb felt paper or synthetic underlayment across the roof deck per manufacturer instructions. This protects from leaks.
- Use recommended fastener types and minimum lengths for the specific roofing material to resist wind uplift.
- Flash and seal around openings, joints, valleys, edges, and protrusions thoroughly to prevent moisture entry.
- Allow for sufficient roof ventilation if needed – certain materials like wood shingles require air flow underneath to prolong roof life.
- Strictly follow all material manufacturer application guidelines for correct overlap, slope, fastener spacing/placement, etc. Improper installation can severely shorten roof lifespan or cause failures.
- Take care not to dent, scratch, or crack roofing during installation and placement on the shed. Damaged areas must be repaired or replaced.
- Hire licensed roofing contractors for specialty materials like tile, metal, or commercial EPDM rubber that require advanced skills to install properly.
- Inspect the roof regularly and fix any damage right away. Early repairs prevent bigger problems down the road.
- Re-coat and re-seal certain surfaces like asphalt shingles every few years per manufacturer recommendations for optimal longevity.
By following best practice installation techniques and conducting preventative maintenance, your shed roof will provide maximum performance for many years of reliable protection.
FAQs about Shed Roofing Materials
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about selecting the right roofing system for your shed:
What is the most cost-effective roofing material for a shed?
Asphalt shingles provide the most economical roofing for basic shed projects. Opt for quality 30-year architectural shingles and properly install per manufacturing instructions for the best durability at a wallet-friendly price.
How much does it cost to roof a 12×12 shed?
You can expect to pay $350-550 in materials to roof a basic 12×12 single-story shed, plus additional costs for professional installation if not doing it yourself. Asphalt shingles for a simple gable roof will be the cheapest at around $350-400.
What type of roof shingles last the longest?
Slate, clay tile, and copper roofing have the longest lifespan potential of 70-100+ years. Though expensive initially, they offer excellent ROI from their extreme durability and longevity if properly maintained. Metal and rubber roofs also last 40-50+ years.
How long do asphalt shingles really last?
Regular three-tab asphalt shingles last 15-20 years on average. More durable architectural shingles last 25-30 years when installed correctly. Climate, roof slope/maintenance all impact lifespan. High-quality 30+ year asphalt shingles offer the best cost-performance durability.
Should I insulate a shed roof?
Insulating shed roofs is recommended to moderate interior temperatures in hot/cold weather. Fiberglass batts or rigid foam panels work well. Allow ventilation to prevent condensation. Unheated sheds only need minimum R-5 insulation. Avoid excess weight with lightweight insulation.
Can you install shingles directly on plywood?
Yes, you can install asphalt shingles directly onto plywood decking. Minimum 5/8” exterior-grade plywood is recommended. Install 30lb felt underlayment over the roof boards before shingling to prevent leaks. Ensure proper gapping between boards for drainage.
What thickness of plywood is best for a shed roof?
Use at least 5/8” plywood for roof decking on storage sheds and outbuildings up to 12 feet wide. For larger spans across shed roofs, go with 3/4” plywood for sufficient stiffness and durability to support roofing materials and withstand foot traffic and weather stresses.
Conclusion
Choosing the right roofing system for your shed is an important decision that protects your investment for the long haul. Ensure you select materials durable enough for your climate that are within your project budget and skill level. Asphalt shingles are a great standard choice for DIY-friendly affordability, while metal and rubber offer extreme weather resistance. Go with tile, slate or wood shakes for upscale shed aesthetics with proper installation. Following manufacturer guidelines carefully during application is key to maximize the lifespan potential of any shed roofing material. Regular inspections and maintenance will keep your shed roof performing optimally for decades to come.