Thinking about building a shed on your property? Before making any decisions about the design of your shed, it’s important to consider all of the options you have regarding the roof. Depending on your priorities, you might lean toward one type of roof over another, but each has its own benefits and drawbacks you should know about before choosing. Here are four options to think about as you begin planning your shed!
Materials
Before you can begin to make your roof, it’s important to understand which materials are best for you. When choosing a roof for your shed, there are many options; some of these include metal, asphalt and wood shingles. Before deciding on a material, consider factors such as cost, convenience and maintenance.
Shingles
When it comes to choosing a roof for your shed, you’ll have three basic options: shingles, shakes, and tiles. There are benefits and drawbacks to each type of roofing material. Shingles are probably your best bet; they’re inexpensive and easy to install—the main drawback is that they won’t stand up well to extremely cold weather. Shakes look like wood but come in two distinct varieties—those made from cedar trees and those from linden trees (which are often called louvers). These roofs will last longer than shingles, though installation costs will be slightly higher. Tiles, which are available in clay or concrete, can make your shed look more like a part of your home. However, tile roofs tend to be heavier than other types of roofing materials and require more upkeep. If you’re planning on using an existing structure as part of your shed project, you may want to consult with an architect about adding a second story or attic space onto it first. This will help ensure that everything fits together properly when you begin building.
Durability
If you plan on using your shed for storage or as a work space, it’s important to have a roof that can withstand Mother Nature’s whims. Many shed roofs are made of asphalt or metal, which makes them durable and long-lasting, but they don’t typically stand up well against extreme heat and cold. If you live in an area that gets a lot of snowfall in winter, metal is probably not going to be your best bet for durability. A pitch roof will stand up better against heavy snowfall than an asphalt shingle will, so if you choose metal over asphalt shingles, make sure to go with a slanted or hip roof rather than a flat one.
Energy savings
If you’re looking to save money on your monthly utility bills, installing an energy-efficient roof might be a good place to start. Depending on how much of a budget you have for your shed, you can opt for Energy Star rated composite shingles or metal roof tiles that will help keep heat out of your living space. You’ll also want to consider what kind of shed you’re building; if it’s going to be used as a playhouse or work shop, having an insulated roof with high thermal resistance can make all the difference in keeping rooms cool during hot summer days and warm during frigid winter evenings. Regardless of which type of roof you choose, remember that one man’s trash is another man’s treasure—if you live in an area where there are a lot of old barns being torn down, now is your chance to snag some reclaimed wood siding and use it as your own design inspiration.
Porches
A veranda or porch can be a great addition to your shed, providing protection from insects and weather while also adding a nice, charming touch. A porch with columns adds an extra sense of classic design, as well as keeping you dry when it rains. Of course, many homeowners prefer different styles based on personal preference; some even include doors that open up onto their porches! Whichever design you choose for your roofed veranda, don’t underestimate its worth – a well-designed roof can really make all the difference in your overall build.