How To Install a Shingle Roof on Your Shed

It’s not as hard as it might seem.

Having a roof that is in great working order is very important, especially for your shed, which houses some of your most useful equipment for your home and yard. If it’s time for you to replace your roof, it’s easy to feel a little overwhelmed, especially if you haven’t completed a roofing project before. But, installing a new shingle roof on your shed isn’t as hard as it might seem.

Step #1: Research the materials you need.

Not sure what type of shingles or other material you need? Stop into your local roofing supply store and get advice on what you’ll need for your project. Reading up on necessary materials in addition to talking to an expert is very important so you know which products are the best. Do you live in an area that gets a lot of rain or storms? In this case, you may need to consider getting thicker shingles that are more durable in high wind storms.

Step #2: Apply roofing paper.

When you’re up on the roof, lay down roofing paper to overlap when needed. If you have an old shed, there is probably already roofing paper on it. If it’s in good condition, you can keep it on there as long as there is no rotting. If it needs to be replaced, simply remove it and apply a new set. A good layer of felt or tar paper will help the roof last longer.

Step #3: Apply the shingles.

Here comes the fun part! Overlap the shingles, just like you’ve probably seen on roofs before, starting from the eaves and working up to the ridge. As you overlap them, nail them with roofing nails, preferably with a roofing gun, which will save you significant time.

Step #4: If needed, shape the shingles.

If you applied shingles over the edges, you’ll need to cut and shape them to fit. This will allow you to keep your shed dry and more protected when it comes to rain, wind, snow or other weather that could potentially damage the shed.

Of course, before you start, make sure that you have appropriate safety gear such as goggles, gloves, and sturdy shoes that will keep you steady and protected. You may not think that the top of a small shed is precarious, but when you get up there it may turn out a little bit more awkward that you thought. So, read up on some roofing safety tips. Avoid accidents by paying attention to where you’re at, keeping your balance, and carefully bringing your materials up on the roof with you so you can avoid going up and down often.

With a few of these tips and a little expert advice, putting the roof on your tool shed can be a simple, one-weekend project with years of rewards. Happy hammering ☺