A shed roof material plays a vital role in defending the shed against rain, snow and wind. It should also be one that will last you long with minimal maintenance. With the many options out there, it is essential to research the materials before choosing one.
Although they are a separate part of the home, matching your house’s roof with the one on the shed brings out a perfect picture of a home. Notably, there are different materials for sheds, with each having its pros and cons.
There has been an evolution in the roofing materials in the market. In the past, natural materials like wood were the only options; but today, engineered roofing materials like synthetic felts are common. You can visit roofmasterlubbock.com to find more options.
Such materials are a bit cheaper than the natural ones and last longer. They are also environmentally friendly and adhere to the construction codes of most states. Before choosing a material for your shed’s roof, ensure it is within the construction codes.
Factors to Consider When Buying Roofing Materials for Shades
To reduce confusion with the many roofing materials available, you should consider some factors. Don’t compromise on durability, low maintenance cost and aesthetics.
Other factors you should consider when buying a roofing material for your shade are;
Waterproof
Most shed damages are a result of water leakages. This water enters the shade through the seams of the roofing materials and the nail and screw holes left after installation.
Get a material that does not soak in water—also, the installation matters. Poorly water-resistant material will still lead to water leakage if the installation is poor.
Hire a qualified installer to be sure of the work. Also, ensure the roofer uses an excellent installation method, and the seams overlap well to enable the water to flow down without interruption. Finally, buy adhesives and tapes for waterproofing.
Aesthetics
Most homeowners do not care about the look of their shed. Therefore, it is essential to make your shed look excellent and attractive even to the neighbours.
Some associations and neighbourhoods have rules about the sheds and look, including roof material. Check out to ensure you are on the right track before choosing the wrong material.
Durability
Longevity and the ability to withstand harsh climatic conditions is some of the factors you should not compromise in a shed roof material. You don’t want a roof that keeps tearing and breaking after a storm or a year of the scorching sun.
A durable roof will also ensure you spend less on maintenance since you will not worry about repairs and repainting. However, due to the other reduction of expenses, you are likely to pay more for this type of roof, which will be worth it.
Cost
You don’t need to break a bank to get durability, aesthetics and waterproofing, in one roof. Many inexpensive materials come with these characteristics. However, do not go for the cheapest roofing materials for the shed.
Unlike natural materials like wood, the new composite roofs are affordable, and you can get a style that lies within your budget. When setting the budget, remember that you will get what you pay. Do not set aside too little, and don’t stretch your pockets beyond.
Maintenance
The material you choose should be low or zero maintenance. While your eyes might be glued to a roof due to its beauty and durability, ensure it is also low maintenance. There is no point in having a too beautiful shed that costs you thousands of dollars in a year.
Some materials don’t fade when painted, war or dent when exposed to adverse climates. That means that they will cost less on repairs hence low maintenance. However, you are likely to pay more for these materials.
Best Roofing Materials for Sheds
It’s good that you know the different factors to consider when buying roofing materials for sheds. Now, let’s look at some of the best roofing materials.
1. Roll Roofing
This mineral-surfaced roll is thin, affordable and durable. It is easy to install, and it needs to get installed on a roof with a pitch. The installers use a torch-down method to install the roll roofing on flat roofs.
The roof rolls are broad, hence the ease of installation. Despite being affordable, these roofs are not beautiful and will not increase your house’s resale value. In addition, its thinness will have you replacing it after five years, so it has a short life.
2. Corrugated Roofing
You can choose to install metal, fibreglass or polycarbonate plastic types of corrugated roofing. They are easy and quick to install, and their seams and edges overlap to ensure a smooth flow of water.
The nails used to install corrugated roofs are unique, with washers and caps that ensure a complete seal to prevent water leakage.
However, these roofs cannot withstand strong winds. They are also not a very common material because most homeowners’ associations prohibit them.
3. Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are a common type, although they come in limited colours. These roof materials are also available for house roofs, so you can choose one that matches your house. In addition, they are affordable and easy to find and install.
Asphalt shingles are beautiful, and matching them with your house’s roof will add aesthetics to the home. However, installation is time-consuming because you must install each shingle one by one, following a particular order.
4. Cedar Shingles
Cedar is attractive, and most homeowners choose these shingles because of that. They are also very durable and easy to maintain. Of course, the durability of these shingles always depends on how well you take care of them.
People whose areas are cold will have more work caring for this type of roof. However, staining and regularly cleaning the shingles will help them last longer.
You can use this roof on steeply pitched roofs because it is not waterproof. It is also easily damaged by water, hence the short lifespan.
Final Words
While there are many roofing materials, ensure you consider factors like durability and maintenance costs. The climate of your area matters too. Most importantly, choose a good roofer since a good shed roof material won’t perform well when wrongly installed
