10 Top Shed Roofing Materials: Pros and Cons
Estimated Reading Time : 6 Min.
Is the roof on your shed getting old? Or do you have a completely new backyard getaway in mind? Selecting the appropriate roofing material for your shed is an important choice. It gives whatever is housed in your shed weather protection and can make a big difference in the building’s lifespan and appearance.
But how can you make a choice when there are so many options? Let’s look at the top 10 shed roofing materials, their advantages and disadvantages, and how to choose the best one for your needs.
10 Best Materials For A Shed Roof
#1. Asphalt Shingles
The first option is asphalt shingles, which are well known for being the cheapest roofing material for sheds. They are versatile and easy to install and are made from a fiberglass base coated with asphalt and ceramic granules. They come in various colors and styles, last 15 to 25 years, and offer good wind and rain resistance. Lightweight and effective at waterproofing, they are a reliable choice for shed roofs.
| PROS | CONS |
| Inexpensive and Budget-Friendly: One of the most affordable roofing options. | Wind Vulnerability: More susceptible to wind uplift. |
| Versatile Appearance: Fit a wide variety of home styles. | Moss Growth: Susceptible to moss and algae in damp areas. |
| Ease of Installation: Simple to install and replace. | Seasonal Installation: Best installed in warmer temperatures. |
| Visual Appeal: Provide texture and dimension to the roof. | Limited Look: May not stand out in terms of design. |
| Heat Absorption: Can make sheds warmer in summer. |
#2. EPDM
The second option on our list is EPDM, ideal for flat or low-slope shed roofs, it’s highly durable and can last over 50 years. It also resists UV rays, ozone, and extreme weather. Easy to install with peel-and-stick or adhesive methods, it provides excellent waterproofing, making it a great option for sheds in rainy or snowy areas.
| PROS | CONS |
| Water Resistance: Highly effective in heavy rainfall areas. | Higher Initial Cost: More expensive than traditional options. |
| Flexibility: Adapts well to various shed shapes and sizes. | Limited Aesthetic Choices: Fewer design options compared to other materials. |
| Low Maintenance: Requires minimal upkeep. |
#3. Composite Shingles
Made from fiberglass, recycled plastic, and other synthetic materials, composite shingles are another common option for shed roofing. Though they come at a similar cost to asphalt shingles, they have enhanced durability and can look like natural materials like slate or cedar shake. Composite roof shingles are a great choice for shed roofing since they are low maintenance, have a beautiful appearance, and endure for a long time.
| PROS | CONS |
| Authentic Appearance: Resembles slate or cedar shake for a premium look at a lower cost. | Higher Cost: More expensive than asphalt shingles, though cheaper than some premium materials. |
| Durability: Withstands UV rays, hail, rain, and wind, and lasts up to 50 years with care. | Limited Wind Resistance: Has a hard time withstanding winds stronger than 115 mph. |
| Fire Resistance: Most have a Class-A fire rating, helping to prevent the spread of fire. |
#4. Metal
Metal roofs are durable, long-lasting (around 40 to 70 years), and provide a modern-looking appearance. Made from materials like steel, aluminum, and copper, it’s lightweight, strong, and resistant to extreme weather. Low-maintenance and energy-efficient, it’s an excellent choice for shed roofs, especially in areas with severe weather.
Types
- Corrugated: Has wavy sheets with visible fasteners. It’s lightweight, durable, and low-maintenance, ideal for farms and modern homes.
- Standing Seam: Features long panels with hidden seams. It’s sleek, weather-resistant, and energy-efficient, but comes at a higher cost.
- Stone-Coated: Has steel panels covered with stone granules. It’s lightweight, energy-efficient, and low-maintenance, and can mimic the appearance of asphalt or slate shingles.
| PROS | CONS |
| Durability: Highly durable and long-lasting. | Higher Initial Cost: More expensive upfront compared to some options. |
| Weather Resistance: Resistant to rust and severe weather. | Noise Factor: Can be noisy during rain or hail. |
| Heat Reflection: Keeps sheds cooler in summer by reflecting heat. | Denting Risk: Prone to dents and scratches. |
| Variety of Styles: Available in numerous colors and styles. | Cold in Winter: Reflects heat, which can make sheds colder in winter. |
#5. PVC
PVC is durable, energy-efficient, and ideal for flat shed roofs. Resistant to fire, chemicals, and UV rays, it lasts up to 30 years and is easy to install. Its waterproof properties make it a great option for sheds used as workshops or storage spaces.
| PROS | CONS |
| Waterproof: Excellent water resistance. | Cost: Can be more expensive than traditional roofing materials. |
| Durability: Long-lasting and resistant to wear. | Aesthetic Limitations: May not be as visually appealing as other options. |
| Ease of Installation: Simple to install and maintain. |
#6. Slate
Slate is a premium, durable material lasting over 100 years, and made of natural stone. It provides excellent insulation and fire resistance, but is heavy and expensive, requiring a strong structural framework. It’s generally not recommended for smaller sheds due to its weight and expense.
| PROS | CONS |
| Longevity: Extremely durable and can last over a century. | High Cost: Expensive and labor-intensive to install. |
| Fire Resistance: Highly resistant to fire. | Heavy Weight: Requires a sturdy structure to support the weight. |
| Elegant Appearance: Provides a premium, sophisticated look. | Brittleness: Prone to cracking if not handled carefully. |
#7. Clay or Concrete Tiles
Clay and concrete tiles are weather-resistant, and offer good insulation, lasting more than 50 years. However, like slate, sheds may need additional support in order to handle the weight of the tiles.
| PROS | CONS |
| Durability: Long-lasting and resistant to weather. | Heavy Material: Requires a strong structure to support the weight. |
| Fire Resistance: Naturally fire-resistant. | Installation Cost: Higher installation costs due to the intense labor necessary for installation. |
| Distinctive Style: Offers a classic, Mediterranean appearance. | Cracking Risk: Can crack or break under impact. |
#8. Bitumen Roofing Felt
For flat or low-pitched roofs, bitumen roofing felt is an affordable option that provides good waterproofing. Unfortunately it does need frequent upkeep and has a shorter lifespan of 10 to 15 years. While one of the most common materials used for shed roofs, it can also be prone to leak over time.
| PROS | CONS |
| Affordability: One of the most budget-friendly options. | Durability Issues: Not very long-lasting. |
| Easy Installation: Simple to apply. | Cracking Over Time: Prone to deterioration and cracking. |
| Waterproof Layer: Provides effective waterproofing. | Aesthetic Appeal: May not enhance the visual appeal of the shed. |
#9. Cedar Shakes
A beautiful choice for sheds, cedar shakes provide a rustic look, lasting up to 30 years with proper maintenance. They offer good insulation and weather resistance but require regular sealing and staining to prevent rot and insect damage.
| PROS | CONS |
| Natural Look: Offers a rustic, charming appearance. | Cost: More expensive than some other options. |
| Good Insulation: Provides excellent thermal insulation. | Maintenance Required: Needs regular upkeep to prevent decay. |
| Durability: Can last a long time with proper maintenance. | Fire Risk: Higher risk of fire compared to other materials. |
#10. Polycarbonate Panels
Polycarbonate panels are lightweight, durable, and versatile, providing excellent light transmission, making them ideal for sheds used as workshops or greenhouses. They’re suitable for both pitched and low-slope roofs, and even offer good weatherproofing, lasting up to 20 years.
| PROS | CONS |
| Lightweight: Easy to handle and install. | Insulation Limitations: May not provide the best insulation. |
| Natural Light Transmission: Allows good light into the shed. | UV Discoloration: Can become discolored or cloudy over time. |
| Durability: Shatter-resistant and long-lasting. | Weather Protection: May not offer the same level of weather protection as other materials. |
Install One Of The Best Materials For A Shed Roof Today!
Picking the right roofing material for your shed is key to making sure it lasts, works well, and looks good. Each material mentioned above has its own pros and cons, so the best option depends on your needs, budget, and local weather. Whether you want something affordable, durable, or stylish, there’s a roofing material that’s right for your shed.
Looking for professional assistance? BRH Enterprises is the go-to choice! We provide quality roofing services, whether you’re installing a new roof, making repairs, or doing maintenance. With our skilled team, your shed will be in great shape. Call us at (920) 249-4228 to get the job done right!
