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Shed Roofing Felt: A Complete Guide
Introduction
Shed roofing felt is a popular and affordable material used to protect shed roofs from rain, snow, and UV rays. Acting as a waterproof barrier, roofing felt provides durability and extends the life of your shed by safeguarding it from the elements. Whether you’re installing felt on a new shed or replacing an old, worn-out roof covering, understanding the benefits, types, and installation process of roofing felt is essential for proper maintenance. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about shed roofing felt.
Why Choose Roofing Felt for Your Shed?
Roofing felt is widely used due to its numerous advantages:
- Waterproofing: Prevents water from seeping into the shed roof.
- Cost-Effective: One of the most affordable roofing materials available.
- Easy to Install: Suitable for DIY projects, even for beginners.
- UV Protection: Shields the roof from sun damage and prevents cracking.
- Durability: Protects the roof structure from rot and decay caused by moisture.
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1. Types of Shed Roofing Felt
Choosing the right type of roofing felt is crucial for the longevity of your shed roof:
1. Standard Roofing Felt:
- Made from bitumen, this basic option is affordable and effective for waterproofing.
- Pros: Low cost, easy to install.
- Cons: Shorter lifespan (5–10 years).
2. Heavy-Duty Roofing Felt:
- Thicker and more durable, designed for long-lasting protection.
- Pros: Resists tears, lasts 15–20 years.
- Cons: Slightly more expensive than standard felt.
3. Self-Adhesive Roofing Felt:
- Comes with a sticky backing for easy installation without nails or adhesive.
- Pros: Quick installation, no additional tools required.
- Cons: Best for smaller sheds or mild climates.
4. Torch-On Roofing Felt:
- Applied using heat from a blowtorch for a strong, watertight seal.
- Pros: Long-lasting, highly weather-resistant.
- Cons: Requires professional installation or advanced DIY skills.
2. How to Choose the Right Roofing Felt for Your Shed
Consider the following factors when selecting roofing felt:
1. Shed Size:
- Larger sheds may require heavy-duty felt for better durability.
2. Climate:
- Opt for torch-on or heavy-duty felt in areas with harsh weather conditions.
3. Budget:
- Standard felt is suitable for budget-conscious projects, but heavy-duty options offer better longevity.
4. DIY or Professional:
- Self-adhesive and standard felt are easier for DIY installation, while torch-on felt may require professional help.
5. Style:
- Choose felt in a color and texture that complements your garden and shed design.
3. Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Shed Roofing Felt
Installing roofing felt is a straightforward process:
Step 1: Prepare the Roof Surface
- Remove old felt and debris, ensuring the roof is clean, dry, and smooth.
Step 2: Measure and Cut the Felt
- Measure the roof area and cut the felt into strips, leaving an overlap of 50–75 mm at edges.
Step 3: Attach the Felt
- Start at the bottom edge of the roof. Secure the felt using galvanized nails or adhesive.
- For torch-on felt, use a blowtorch to melt the bitumen backing as you attach it.
Step 4: Overlap Layers
- Ensure each layer overlaps the previous one to prevent water ingress.
Step 5: Secure Edges and Ridges
- Nail or glue the felt securely along edges and fold it over the roof’s apex for extra protection.
Step 6: Trim Excess Felt
- Use a sharp utility knife to trim any overhanging felt.
4. Maintaining Shed Roofing Felt
Proper maintenance can extend the life of your roofing felt:
1. Inspect Regularly:
- Check for cracks, tears, or signs of wear, especially after storms.
2. Clean the Roof:
- Remove debris, leaves, and moss to prevent water buildup and rot.
3. Reapply Adhesive:
- Re-seal any loose or peeling edges to maintain waterproofing.
4. Repair Damage Promptly:
- Use roofing adhesive or patch kits to repair minor tears or leaks.
5. Replace Worn Felt:
- Replace felt that shows extensive damage or has reached the end of its lifespan.
5. Cost of Shed Roofing Felt
Roofing felt is an affordable option for shed roofs, with costs depending on the type:
1. Standard Roofing Felt:
- £10–£20 per roll, covering 8–10 square meters.
2. Heavy-Duty Roofing Felt:
- £20–£40 per roll, with added durability.
3. Self-Adhesive Roofing Felt:
- £25–£50 per roll for easy application.
4. Torch-On Roofing Felt:
- £40–£80 per roll, plus additional costs for professional installation.
Conclusion
Shed roofing felt is a practical and cost-effective solution for protecting your shed from the elements. By choosing the right type of felt, installing it properly, and maintaining it regularly, you can ensure your shed roof remains durable and waterproof for years to come. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or hiring a professional, investing in quality roofing felt is essential for preserving the integrity of your shed.
Top 10 Questions and Answers
1. How long does shed roofing felt last?
Standard felt lasts 5–10 years, while heavy-duty and torch-on felt can last 15–20 years.
2. Can I install roofing felt myself?
Yes, standard and self-adhesive felt are suitable for DIY projects, but torch-on felt may require professional help.
3. How do I repair a tear in roofing felt?
Use roofing adhesive or a patch kit to seal tears and prevent leaks.
4. Can roofing felt be painted?
Some roofing felts can be painted with bitumen-based or weatherproof paint for additional protection.
5. What tools do I need to install roofing felt?
You’ll need a hammer, nails, utility knife, adhesive (if required), and a blowtorch for torch-on felt.
6. Is roofing felt waterproof?
Yes, roofing felt is designed to provide a waterproof barrier for your shed roof.
7. How do I remove old roofing felt?
Use a pry bar or scraper to remove old felt, ensuring the roof surface is clean before installing new felt.
8. What is the best roofing felt for harsh weather?
Torch-on or heavy-duty felt offers superior durability and weather resistance.
9. Can roofing felt be used on other structures?
Yes, it’s suitable for garden buildings, garages, and even flat roofs.
10. How much does it cost to replace shed roofing felt?
Costs vary depending on the type of felt, ranging from £10–£80 per roll, plus additional costs for adhesive or professional labor.
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