Shed Roof Replacement: DIY or Hire a Roofer?

Replacing a shed roof can look like a manageable weekend project. The roof is smaller than the one on your house, most materials are widely available and there are plenty of online guides showing how the work is done.

However, shed roof replacement can become more complicated once the old covering comes off. Rotten boards, damaged timbers, poor drainage and an unsuitable roof pitch may all need attention before the new covering goes down.

Safety also matters. A shed may only be one storey high, but falling from the roof can still cause a serious injury. Lightweight shed roofs may not support a person’s weight, while old corrugated sheets could contain asbestos.

So, is replacing a shed roof a sensible DIY job, or should you hire a roofer? This guide compares both options, explains the main roofing materials and looks at the typical costs involved.

Why Do Shed Roofs Need Replacing?

Shed roofs face the same rain, wind, frost and sunlight as house roofs. However, they are often built with lighter materials and receive less regular maintenance.

Many sheds use basic mineral felt laid over thin timber boards. Over time, the felt may become brittle, split around the edges or lift during strong winds.

Common reasons for replacing a shed roof include:

Torn or cracked roofing felt
Repeated water leaks
Rotten roof boards
Sagging timber
Missing felt caused by wind
Failed adhesive or fixings
Standing water on a flat roof
Moss growing across the covering
Damaged corrugated sheets
Loose shingles
Rusted metal roofing
Failed roof edges
Water entering around fixings
An old covering reaching the end of its useful life

A small local defect may only need a patch. However, repeated leaks or widespread deterioration usually make full replacement the better option.

DIY Shed Roof Replacement vs Hiring a Roofer

Factor	DIY Replacement	Professional Replacement
Initial cost	Usually lower	Higher due to labour and access
Time required	Often one weekend or longer	Commonly completed within one or two days
Safety	Homeowner carries the risk	Roofer should plan suitable access
Roof inspection	Depends on DIY knowledge	Roofer can identify hidden faults
Material selection	Homeowner must choose the system	Roofer can recommend a suitable covering
Timber repairs	May require extra tools and skills	Can usually be included in the work
Finish	Depends on experience	Usually neater and more consistent
Waste disposal	Homeowner must arrange it	Often included in the quotation
Weather protection	Homeowner must plan around rain	Contractor should protect exposed areas
Guarantee	Product warranty only	May include workmanship cover
Asbestos risk	Homeowner must identify it	Specialist assessment can be arranged
Unexpected problems	Can delay the project	Roofer may resolve them during the job

Is Shed Roof Replacement Suitable for DIY?

A straightforward felt replacement may be suitable for an experienced DIY homeowner where:

The shed is small
The roof is low
Access is clear
The timber deck remains sound
The roof has a simple shape
The replacement material is lightweight
No asbestos is present (asbestos removal can be costly)
The weather forecast is dry
The homeowner has suitable tools
The work can be completed without standing on the roof

For example, replacing torn felt on a small timber garden shed with firm boards and easy access may be manageable.

DIY becomes less suitable when the roof is high, heavily damaged, structurally weak or covered with a specialist material.

When Is It Better to Hire a Roofer?

Professional help is usually the better choice where:

The shed is large
The roof is difficult to access
The timber structure has sagged
Roof boards feel soft or rotten
The shed contains valuable equipment
The roof joins another building
Lead flashing is required
Several roof slopes or valleys are involved
The new covering will be EPDM, GRP or metal
The existing roof may contain asbestos
The roof needs structural alterations
Repeated DIY repairs have failed
The shed is used as an office, workshop or garden room
Insulation needs adding or upgrading

A roofer can also be worthwhile when the shed sits close to a neighbour’s fence, greenhouse, conservatory or other easily damaged structure.

Safety Should Come First

Roof work carries a risk of falling from an edge or through a fragile surface. The Health and Safety Executive advises that roof work should be properly planned and that ladders should generally only be used for suitable low-risk, short-duration tasks. Fragile roof coverings need additional protection because they may not support a person’s weight.

A shed roof should not be assumed safe to stand on.

Thin boards may have weakened without looking damaged from below. Corrugated plastic, fibre cement and old rooflights can also break suddenly.

DIY safety risks include:

Falling from a ladder
Falling through the roof
Slipping on wet felt
Dropping tools
Damaging nearby windows or fences
Handling heavy boards at height
Cutting yourself on sheet metal
Breathing dust from old materials
Leaving the shed exposed during rain
Overreaching from an unstable platform

A stable access tower or working platform may be more suitable than trying to complete the whole job from a ladder.

Check for Asbestos Before Starting

Older sheds and garages may have corrugated asbestos cement roof sheets. Some older bituminous roofing products can also contain asbestos.

Do not drill, saw, sand, pressure wash or break a suspected asbestos roof.

The HSE publishes specific guidance for asbestos cement sheets and asbestos-containing roofing products. Although some lower-risk asbestos cement work may fall outside licensing requirements, it still requires the correct training, controls, handling and waste arrangements. Higher-risk asbestos work must be completed by an appropriately licensed contractor.

Possible signs of asbestos cement sheets include:

Grey corrugated panels
A hard cement-like surface
An older shed or garage
Large sheets fixed with bolts
Weathered or moss-covered panels
No manufacturer markings confirming a modern material

Appearance alone cannot reliably confirm whether a product contains asbestos. Arrange testing or specialist advice before disturbing a suspicious covering.

Repair or Replace the Shed Roof?

Not every leak needs a full replacement.

Roof Condition	Likely Option
One small felt tear	Local patch may work
Felt lifted at one edge	Refix or patch the edge
One damaged shingle	Replace the affected shingle
One loose metal fixing	Renew fixing and seal correctly
Widespread felt cracking	Replace the complete covering
Several failed patches	Full replacement usually offers better value
Rotten roof boards	Strip covering and replace boards
Sagging rafters	Structural timber repair
Standing water	Improve the roof fall before recovering
Cracked GRP across several areas	Full replacement may be required
Shrinking or loose EPDM	Repair edges or replace membrane
Suspected asbestos sheets	Specialist assessment before work

A patch is most useful when the surrounding material remains sound. Applying new felt over a badly deteriorated roof often hides the problem rather than fixing it.

Common Shed Roof Types

Roof Type	Description	Common Coverings
Pent roof	One slope from front to back	Felt, EPDM, corrugated sheet or metal
Apex roof	Two slopes meeting at a ridge	Felt, shingles, tiles or sheets
Flat roof	Low-pitched or almost level surface	Felt, EPDM, GRP or liquid membrane
Lean-to roof	One slope attached to another structure	Felt, tiles, polycarbonate or metal
Curved roof	Rounded or arched structure	Flexible sheet or specialist membrane
Garden room roof	More substantial insulated construction	EPDM, GRP, felt or metal

The roof shape and pitch will affect which covering works best.

Shed Roofing Materials Compared

Material	Typical Lifespan	Main Advantages	Possible Drawbacks
Basic mineral felt	5–10 years	Cheap and easy to install	Shorter lifespan and can tear
Heavy-duty felt	10–20 years	Stronger than basic shed felt	Needs careful fixing and preparation
Bitumen shingles	15–25 years	Attractive and suitable for pitched roofs	More pieces and fixings required
EPDM rubber	20–40 years	Often installed in one sheet	Deck preparation and edge details matter
GRP fibreglass	20–30 years	Hard, seamless finish	Can crack if the deck moves
Corrugated bitumen sheets	10–20 years	Lightweight and quick to install	Needs correct support and fixings
Corrugated metal	20–40 years	Durable and suitable for larger sheds	Can suffer condensation and noise
Plastic sheets	10–20 years	Lightweight and lets in light	Can become brittle or discolour
Tiles or slates	Several decades	Traditional appearance and durability	Heavy and requires a strong structure

Lifespans vary considerably according to product quality, installation, exposure and maintenance.

Option 1: Replacing Shed Roof Felt

Roofing felt remains one of the most popular shed coverings because it is affordable and easy to source.

A typical felt replacement involves:

Removing the old felt.
Pulling out nails and fixings.
Inspecting the timber deck.
Replacing rotten boards.
Allowing the surface to dry.
Cutting the new felt.
Fixing the lower sections first.
Overlapping upper sections correctly.
Securing the edges.
Finishing the ridge on an apex shed.

Advantages of shed felt

Relatively low material cost
Suitable for many timber sheds
Available from most DIY retailers
Can be cut with basic tools
Small areas can be patched
Several colours and grades are available

Disadvantages

Basic products may have a short lifespan
Wind can lift poorly fixed edges
Nails can create leak points
Sharp corners may tear the felt
Installation requires dry weather
Thin felt may crack in strong sunlight or frost

Spending slightly more on a heavier-grade felt can improve durability.

Option 2: EPDM Rubber Roofing

EPDM is a flexible rubber membrane often used on flat roofs and garden buildings.

For a small shed, it may be supplied as one sheet. This reduces the number of seams where water can enter.

Advantages

Long potential lifespan
Flexible during temperature changes
Usually installed without naked flames
Suitable for low-pitched roofs
Neat appearance
Resistant to cracking when installed correctly

Disadvantages

Costs more than basic felt
Requires a smooth, clean deck
Adhesive must suit the membrane
Corners and edges need careful detailing
Sharp objects can puncture it
Poorly fitted trims can allow water underneath

DIY installation is possible, but bubbles, loose edges and incorrect adhesive application can reduce the life of the roof.

Option 3: GRP Fibreglass

GRP creates a hard waterproof surface over a stable timber deck.

The system normally uses resin, fibreglass matting, trims and a protective topcoat.

Advantages

Seamless surface
Hard-wearing finish
Clean appearance
Suitable for many flat or low-pitched roofs
Can last for many years

Disadvantages

Requires careful mixing
Temperature and weather affect installation
The deck must remain stable
Strong smells and resins require safe handling
Cracks can form if the boards move
Less forgiving for inexperienced DIY installers

GRP is often better left to an installer familiar with the full system.

Option 4: Corrugated Roofing Sheets

Corrugated bitumen, plastic and metal sheets can provide a practical covering for larger sheds and workshops.

Advantages

Quick installation
Lightweight options available
Suitable for agricultural-style buildings
Individual sheets can be replaced
Water drains through formed channels

Disadvantages

Requires correct support spacing
Fixings must sit in the correct position
Poor laps can leak
Metal may suffer condensation underneath
Plastic sheets can become brittle
Wind can lift badly secured sheets
Some old corrugated sheets may contain asbestos

Do not confuse modern fibre-cement or bitumen sheets with older asbestos cement roofing.

Option 5: Tiles or Slates

Tiles or slates can create a more permanent and attractive finish, particularly on a large garden room or masonry outbuilding.

However, the roof structure must support the additional weight.

A timber shed originally designed for felt may not safely carry concrete tiles or natural slate without reinforcement.

Before changing to a heavier covering, check:

Rafter size
Rafter spacing
Wall strength
Roof pitch
Batten requirements
Underlay
Fixings
Ridge details
Wind exposure
Foundation condition

Structural advice may be needed for a major change in roof weight.

DIY Shed Roof Replacement: Tools and Materials

The exact equipment depends on the roofing system.

Typical tools may include:

Stable ladder or access tower
Hammer
Claw bar
Utility knife
Tape measure
Straight edge
Staple gun
Roofing nails
Screwdriver or drill
Handsaw or circular saw
Dustpan and brush
Work gloves
Eye protection
Suitable footwear
Tarpaulin
Waste sacks
Sealant gun where required

Possible materials include:

Roofing felt, EPDM or sheet covering
Timber roof boards
Replacement rafters or battens
Adhesive
Roofing nails or screws
Edge trims
Fascia boards
Drip edges
Ridge material
Timber preservative
Compatible repair tape or sealant

Do not buy the roof covering until you have measured the roof and allowed for overlaps, edges and waste.

How to Measure a Shed Roof

Measure each roof slope rather than only measuring the shed floor.

For a pent roof:

Measure the full roof width.
Measure from the highest edge to the lowest edge.
Include overhangs.
Add the overlap required by the product.
Add a small allowance for trimming.

For an apex roof:

Measure the width of one roof slope.
Measure the full length.
Multiply by two.
Add material for the ridge.
Include overlaps and edge finishing.

Roofing membranes and sheets come in fixed sizes, so the exact quantity may be higher than the measured roof area.

What Might You Find Under the Old Covering?

Removing the roof covering often reveals problems that were not visible beforehand.

Common discoveries include:

Rotten plywood or OSB
Split tongue-and-groove boards
Mould
Wet insulation
Insect damage
Sagging rafters
Rusted fixings
Poor previous patches
Missing edge support
Water trapped between layers
Gaps at the eaves
Timber that is too thin for the chosen covering

This is one reason a simple felt replacement can become a larger project.

Replacing Rotten Shed Roof Boards

A new waterproof covering should not go over soft or rotten boards.

Damaged decking may:

Fail to hold nails
Sag under the covering
Trap water
Break under pressure
Cause GRP to crack
Create low areas where water collects

Remove all weak sections and inspect the supporting rafters underneath.

Common replacement boards include:

Exterior-grade plywood
OSB3
Tongue-and-groove timber
Decking specified by the roofing manufacturer

Board thickness should suit the spacing between supports and the intended roofing system.

Should You Replace the Whole Deck?

Local board replacement may work where the damage affects one small area.

A complete new deck may offer better value where:

Several boards feel soft
Water has entered for years
The roof has sagged
The old boards are too thin
GRP or EPDM requires a smoother surface
Fixings no longer hold
The boards have swollen or separated
The roof fall needs correcting

Joining new and old boards can sometimes create uneven areas, so the surface must remain level.

Improving the Roof Fall

A flat shed roof should still direct water towards an edge, gutter or outlet.

If puddles remain after rain, the structure may need:

Firring strips
New tapered timbers
Replacement rafters
A level supporting frame
A better gutter position
A clear outlet
Corrected roof boards

Simply laying a new covering over a sagging roof will not solve the drainage problem.

DIY Shed Roof Felt Replacement Process

1. Check the Weather

Choose a dry period and avoid working during strong winds.

Have a tarpaulin ready in case the weather changes.

2. Clear the Area

Move tools, garden furniture and valuable items away from the shed.

Empty the shed or cover stored belongings.

3. Arrange Safe Access

Use a stable platform that allows you to reach the roof without standing on it.

4. Remove the Old Felt

Pull out nails and carefully strip away the covering.

Avoid damaging sound roof boards.

5. Inspect the Structure

Check boards, rafters, fascia and edges for rot or movement.

6. Complete Timber Repairs

Replace damaged boards and reinforce weak framing.

7. Prepare the Surface

Remove old nails, dust, splinters and sharp edges.

Allow damp timber to dry.

8. Measure and Cut the Felt

Cut each piece with enough material for the required overlaps and edge finishing.

9. Fit the Lowest Section First

On a sloping roof, begin at the lower edge so higher courses overlap the ones below.

10. Secure the Felt

Follow the product instructions for adhesive, nails, staples or a combination of fixings.

11. Complete the Edges

Fold or trim the felt neatly and secure it against wind uplift.

12. Finish the Ridge

On an apex roof, install a separate ridge strip over both roof slopes.

13. Check Drainage

Make sure water can leave the roof without collecting behind trims or fascias.

14. Clear the Site

Remove old felt, nails, timber and other waste.

How a Professional Roofer Replaces a Shed Roof

A professional replacement should begin with an inspection rather than simply covering the existing roof.

A roofer may:

Measure the roof.
Check the covering and supporting structure.
Identify possible asbestos.
Recommend suitable materials.
Arrange safe access.
Remove the old roof covering.
Inspect the deck and rafters.
Replace rotten timber.
Correct the roof fall.
Install the new covering.
Complete edges, flashing and gutters.
Remove waste.
Provide photographs and paperwork.

For a simple shed, the work may take less than a day. Larger or badly damaged roofs can take several days.

DIY Shed Roof Replacement Costs

DIY costs depend on roof size, material and timber condition.

DIY Item	Typical Cost
Basic shed felt	£30–£80
Heavy-duty felt	£60–£180
Felt adhesive and fixings	£20–£60
EPDM kit for a small shed	£150–£400
GRP roofing kit	£200–£500
Corrugated bitumen sheets	£15–£30 per sheet
Corrugated metal sheets	£20–£50 per sheet
Replacement roof boards	£25–£60 per board
Replacement timber	£30–£150 or more
Fascia and edge timber	£20–£100
Access tower hire	£80–£250
Waste disposal	£20–£150
Protective equipment	£20–£100

A very small felt roof may cost under £100 in materials. A larger EPDM, GRP or timber repair project can easily cost several hundred pounds before labour is considered.

Professional Shed Roof Replacement Costs

The following figures provide broad budgeting ranges.

Professional Work	Typical UK Cost
Small felt patch	£150–£350
Re-felt a small garden shed	£300–£650
Re-felt a medium shed	£450–£900
Replace felt and some boards	£600–£1,300
EPDM shed roof replacement	£700–£1,600
GRP shed roof replacement	£800–£1,800
Corrugated sheet replacement	£600–£1,500
Large workshop or outbuilding roof	£1,200–£4,000 or more
Structural timber repairs	£250–£1,500 or more
Asbestos cement removal	Priced following survey, quantity and access
Access equipment	£200–£800 or more

Prices vary according to location, roof size, access and material choice.

What Affects the Price?

Shed Size

A larger roof needs more covering, timber and labour.

Roof Shape

An apex roof has a ridge and two slopes. Valleys, side extensions and roof windows add more detail.

Existing Damage

Rotten boards and rafters can cost more to repair than the roof covering itself.

Material Choice

Basic felt costs much less than EPDM, GRP, metal or tiles.

Access

A shed behind a narrow property or close to a boundary can be harder to reach.

Waste Removal

Old roofing, rotten timber and hazardous materials need suitable disposal.

Asbestos

Suspected asbestos requires identification, controlled handling and appropriate waste arrangements.

Flashing and Gutters

A roof attached to a wall may require flashing, while larger sheds may need new gutters and downpipes.

Hidden Costs of DIY Replacement

DIY may look considerably cheaper until extra work becomes necessary.

Possible hidden costs include:

Buying tools
Hiring access equipment
Replacing unexpected rotten boards
Purchasing more material after cutting errors
Repairing leaks caused by poor overlaps
Replacing damaged stored items
Paying for emergency weather protection
Waste disposal
Asbestos testing
Hiring a roofer to correct the work
Taking time away from work

A failed DIY replacement can cost more than hiring a roofer from the beginning.

Benefits of DIY Shed Roof Replacement

DIY may offer several advantages on the right project.

Lower Labour Cost

You only pay for materials, equipment and waste disposal.

Flexible Timing

You can choose when to complete the work, provided the weather remains suitable.

Useful DIY Experience

A small shed roof can help develop basic carpentry and roofing skills.

Control Over Materials

You can choose the exact product and upgrade from basic felt if desired.

Practical for Small Sheds

A simple low roof with sound boards may not justify the call-out cost of a contractor.

Disadvantages of DIY Replacement

Risk of falling
Risk of falling through weak boards
No professional roof inspection
Possibility of choosing the wrong material
Potential cutting and measuring errors
Difficulty protecting the shed from rain
No workmanship guarantee
More time required
Waste must be handled
Hidden timber repairs may require new skills
Asbestos may not be recognised
Poor detailing can cause early leaks

The risks increase significantly on large sheds, workshops and garden rooms.

Benefits of Hiring a Roofer

Faster Completion

An experienced roofer may complete the work within one or two days.

Better Fault Diagnosis

They can check whether the covering, deck, frame or drainage caused the leak.

Suitable Materials

A roofer should recommend a system that matches the roof pitch and use of the building.

Timber Repairs

Rotten decking and framing can be addressed as part of the job.

Neater Detailing

Edges, ridges, flashing and gutters should receive a more consistent finish.

Waste Removal

Many quotations include disposal of the old roof.

Workmanship Guarantee

The contractor may provide written protection for installation faults.

Reduced Personal Risk

You avoid handling large materials and working at roof height.

Disadvantages of Hiring a Roofer

Higher initial price
Minimum call-out charges may affect small jobs
Quality varies between contractors
Work depends on the roofer’s availability
Weather may delay the booking
Some companies may only offer one roofing system
Hidden timber damage can increase the quoted price

Compare the full scope of several quotations rather than choosing only by price.

Which Roofing Material Is Best for a Shed?

The best covering depends on how you use the building.

Shed Use	Practical Roofing Options
Basic tool shed	Heavy-duty felt or corrugated bitumen
Small garden shed	Felt, shingles or EPDM
Workshop	EPDM, metal or insulated sheet
Garden office	EPDM, GRP or high-performance felt
Potting shed	Felt, shingles or clear sheet sections
Large storage building	Metal or corrugated bitumen
Traditional timber shed	Felt or bitumen shingles
Masonry outbuilding	Tiles, slate, EPDM or GRP
Low-pitched roof	EPDM, GRP or suitable sheet system
Steeper apex roof	Felt, shingles, tiles or sheets

A basic storage shed does not always need a premium roof. However, a garden office containing electrics, furniture and insulation needs a more reliable system.

Is Cheap Shed Felt Worth Using?

Basic felt may suit an inexpensive shed that only stores garden tools.

However, the cheapest products can be thin and vulnerable to:

Tearing during installation
Wind uplift
Cracking
Damage around nails
Shorter service life
Surface wear

Heavy-duty felt usually costs more but may reduce how often the roof needs replacing.

Consider the value of the shed and its contents before choosing the cheapest material.

Can You Put New Felt Over Old Felt?

New felt can sometimes go over one sound, firmly attached layer. Nevertheless, removing the old covering usually provides a better result.

Leaving the old felt in place may hide:

Rotten boards
Trapped water
Loose fixings
Mould
Uneven surfaces
Several previous repairs
Sharp edges that damage the new felt

Multiple layers also make later repairs more difficult.

Strip the old covering where it has bubbled, cracked, lifted or trapped moisture.

Should Shed Roof Felt Be Glued or Nailed?

The answer depends on the product.

Some shed felt systems use:

Roofing nails
Adhesive
Staples hidden by overlaps
Timber battens at the edges
A combination of methods

Exposed fixings can become leak points if used incorrectly.

Follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions rather than copying the fixing method from the old roof.

Can a Shed Roof Be Replaced in Winter?

Yes, but cold and wet weather can make the job harder.

Potential winter problems include:

Damp roof boards
Adhesive failing to bond
Brittle felt
Short daylight hours
Frost
Slippery surfaces
Strong winds
Difficulty keeping the shed dry

Spring, summer and early autumn often provide better working conditions. Emergency leaks may still require temporary protection during winter.

How Long Does Shed Roof Replacement Take?

Type of Work	Typical Timescale
Small felt patch	One to three hours
Small shed re-felting	Half a day to one day
Medium shed re-felting	One to two days
Felt and board replacement	One to three days
EPDM replacement	One to two days
GRP replacement	Two to three days
Corrugated sheet replacement	One to two days
Major timber rebuild	Several days

DIY projects often take longer because materials and tools may need to be collected during the work.

Does Shed Roof Replacement Need Planning Permission?

Replacing a shed roof with a similar covering will not usually require planning permission.

However, additional checks may be needed if:

The shed height will increase
The roof shape will change
The building sits close to a boundary
The property is listed
The building lies within a conservation area
The shed will become habitable accommodation
The structure will be substantially enlarged
Planning restrictions apply to the property

A straightforward like-for-like replacement is normally treated as maintenance.

Should You Insulate the Shed Roof at the Same Time?

Replacing the roof creates a useful opportunity to add insulation, particularly where the shed serves as an office, workshop or hobby room.

Possible options include:

Rigid insulation between rafters
Insulated roof boards
Warm roof insulation above the deck
Internal insulation below the roof
Reflective insulation systems

The roof still needs suitable moisture control and ventilation.

Insulation can create condensation problems when warm indoor air reaches a cold surface and cannot escape. Garden rooms and heated workshops need a properly planned roof build-up rather than insulation simply pushed between the rafters.

How to Prevent the New Shed Roof Failing

Use the Right Material

Choose a covering designed for the roof pitch and deck.

Repair Rotten Timber

Do not cover weak boards or rafters.

Form Correct Overlaps

Water should always flow over the next layer rather than towards a joint.

Secure the Edges

Strong winds often begin lifting felt at the roof perimeter.

Improve Drainage

Correct sagging areas and keep outlets clear.

Add Guttering Where Useful

Gutters reduce water splashing against timber walls and foundations.

Trim Overhanging Branches

Branches can damage the covering and increase leaf build-up.

Inspect After Storms

Refix loose edges before the damage spreads.

Avoid Standing on the Roof

Foot traffic can crack boards, GRP and lightweight sheets.

Shed Roof Maintenance Table

Maintenance Task	Suggested Frequency
Inspect roof edges	Every six months
Check after strong winds	As required
Remove leaves and branches	Every autumn
Clear gutters	Once or twice a year
Check internal roof boards	After heavy rain
Treat exposed timber	As recommended
Repair small tears	As soon as noticed
Check sheet fixings	Once a year
Remove heavy moss carefully	When required
Arrange professional inspection	When repeated leaks appear

What Should a Roofer’s Quote Include?

Quote Item	Why It Matters
Roof dimensions	Confirms the area being replaced
Existing covering removal	Clarifies whether old material will remain
New roofing system	Identifies the proposed material
Timber deck allowance	Covers damaged boards where stated
Structural repairs	Important if rafters are weak
Edge and ridge details	Common places for leaks
Flashing	Required where the shed meets a wall
Gutters and drainage	Helps protect the finished roof
Waste removal	Avoids leftover roofing waste
Access equipment	May affect the total cost
VAT	Confirms the final payable amount
Guarantee	Explains aftercare
Asbestos exclusions	Important on older sheeted roofs
Hidden damage rates	Shows how extra work will be charged

Questions to Ask a Roofer

Before accepting a quotation, ask:

Does the whole roof need replacing?
Can any materials be repaired or reused?
What caused the roof to fail?
Are the boards and rafters sound?
Which roofing system do you recommend?
Is it suitable for the roof pitch?
Will the old covering be removed?
Does the price include new boards?
Are edge trims and ridge details included?
Will you add or replace guttering?
Does the price include waste removal?
How will suspected asbestos be handled?
What happens if hidden rot is found?
How long will the work take?
What guarantee is included?
Do you hold public liability insurance?

A clear written quote makes it easier to compare different contractors.

DIY or Roofer: Final Comparison

Choose DIY When	Choose a Roofer When
The shed is small and low	The roof is large or high
The roof structure is sound	Boards or rafters are rotten
The shape is simple	The roof has several junctions
You can work from a safe platform	Safe access is difficult
You have suitable tools	Specialist equipment is required
Basic felt is being installed	EPDM, GRP, metal or tiles are planned
No asbestos is present	Asbestos is suspected
The forecast is reliably dry	Emergency weatherproofing is needed
The shed stores low-value items	The shed is an office or workshop
You understand the installation method	Previous repairs have repeatedly failed

Final Thoughts

Replacing a small felt shed roof can be a realistic DIY project where the building is low, the structure remains sound and safe access is available.

However, the job is not always as simple as laying new felt. Once the old covering comes off, you may find rotten boards, weak rafters or a roof that does not drain properly.

Hiring a roofer costs more, but it can provide a quicker installation, better detailing and professional help with hidden timber damage. A contractor is usually the better option for large sheds, garden offices, complex roof shapes and premium systems such as EPDM or GRP.

Most importantly, check for asbestos before disturbing an older corrugated roof. A suspected asbestos covering needs specialist advice rather than normal DIY removal.

The right choice depends on the shed’s size, condition, value and intended use. For a basic tool shed, DIY felt replacement may offer good value. For a larger or regularly occupied building, professional replacement often provides greater peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace a shed roof myself?

Yes. A small, low shed with sound roof boards and a simple felt covering may be suitable for DIY replacement. Safe access, dry weather and careful installation remain essential.

How much does it cost to replace a shed roof?

A DIY felt replacement may cost from around £50 to several hundred pounds. Professional replacement commonly ranges from approximately £300 for a small felt roof to £1,800 or more for EPDM, GRP or significant timber repairs.

Should I remove the old shed felt first?

Removing the old felt allows you to inspect the roof boards and create a smoother surface. New felt may sometimes go over one sound layer, but damaged, wet or uneven felt should normally be removed.

Is EPDM better than felt for a shed?

EPDM generally offers a longer potential lifespan and fewer seams. However, it costs more and needs a clean, smooth deck with correctly fitted edges.

How long should a felt shed roof last?

Basic shed felt may last around five to ten years. Heavier-grade systems can last longer when installed and maintained correctly.

Can I stand on a shed roof?

You should not assume a shed roof can support your weight. Thin or rotten boards may collapse. Work from a suitable access platform wherever possible.

What is the best covering for a flat shed roof?

EPDM, GRP and high-performance felt can all suit low-pitched shed roofs. The best choice depends on the deck, budget and required lifespan.

Can I put new felt over rotten boards?

No. Rotten or soft boards should be replaced before installing the new covering. Otherwise, the fixings may fail and the roof may continue to sag.

How do I know whether my shed roof contains asbestos?

Older corrugated cement sheets may contain asbestos, but appearance alone cannot confirm it. Arrange professional identification or testing before drilling, breaking or removing suspicious sheets.

Can a roofer remove an asbestos shed roof?

Some asbestos cement work may be non-licensed, but it still requires suitable training, controls and waste handling. Ask for an asbestos assessment and a contractor experienced with the relevant material.

Does a shed roof need guttering?

A small shed may not require gutters, but guttering can reduce water splashing against timber walls and foundations. It is particularly useful on larger sheds and garden rooms.

Can I replace a shed roof during winter?

Replacement is possible during a dry and calm winter period. However, cold temperatures, damp timber and short daylight hours can make installation more difficult.

Why is my new shed roof still leaking?

Possible causes include insufficient overlaps, poorly secured edges, exposed fixings, incorrect flashing, damaged boards or water entering around the ridge.

Should I repair or replace a leaking shed roof?

A small isolated tear may accept a patch. Widespread cracking, repeated leaks, rotten boards or several previous repairs usually make full replacement more practical.

How long does professional shed roof replacement take?

A straightforward felt roof may take half a day or one day. Timber repairs, larger roofs and specialist coverings may require two or more days.