One of the most important aspects of building a durable outdoor shed is selecting the correct shed roofing materials. Choosing a quality material can help to keep stored items safe from rain and other elements, while choosing a poor material could result in damage to those items. When considering which type of roofing material to choose, there are five primary possibilities. These include wood shingles, corrugated iron, mineral roof felt, standing seam metal, and clay tiles.
Wood shingles are one of the more traditional shed roofing materials. There are a few varieties available, including white cedar and red cedar. In general, wood shingles are relatively inexpensive and provide a vintage look. They are also surprisingly durable, and can last for years if treated properly. Wood shingles generally don't work well in locations with high rainfall, however, because of the tendency for mold growth.
Another possibility is using corrugated iron. This style usually has its own distinct, wavy appearance. Using corrugated iron for shed roofing is beneficial because of its lightweight, durable nature. In addition, this is one of the easier shed roofing materials to install.
A mineral felt roof is another option that tends to be inexpensive. As a result, many pre-assembled sheds on the market come with this type of roofing. While a mineral felt roof does a decent job of keeping water out of a shed, it's not very durable. In fact, this type of roofing has the shortest lifespan when compared to other shed roofing materials. In most cases, a mineral felt roof will need to be replaced in about five years.
For people who don't want to deal with a complicated installation process, a standing seam metal roof often works well. Unlike some other materials, a standing seam metal roof can be set up without specialized tools or equipment. These roofs are also quite durable and work well in cold locations with significant snow and ice. The drawback is that they tend to be rather expensive.
An additional possibility for shed roofing materials is clay tile. This is a good option if the individual wants a custom look as the tiles come in a wide range of styles and colors. It is also one of the more natural or organic materials, and is often made from terra cotta. While pricing is usually at the higher end of the spectrum, the quality is also high, and many clay tile roofs can last upwards of 50 years.