A pent shed roof is an ideal solution for many homeowners, but to ensure its longevity, properly installing roofing felt is essential. In this guide, we’ll take you through the process of how to felt a pent shed roof, covering key points like “Which way do you felt a shed roof?” and “Do I need adhesive to felt a shed roof?”
You can read our related blog here: How to Insulate a Shed
What is Roofing Felt?
Roofing felt is a durable, weatherproof material made from bitumen or asphalt that is applied to shed roofs. Its main purpose is to protect the roof from rain, snow, and other environmental elements, acting as a moisture barrier. Felt also strengthens the roof and extends its lifespan by preventing water damage and rot.
Why You Should Felt Your Pent Shed Roof
Felted roofs offer essential protection from harsh weather conditions, keeping your shed dry and safe. This layer also prevents sun damage, which could cause your roof to crack over time. Roofing felt adds strength and longevity to the roof, reducing maintenance needs and saving you money in the long run.
How to Fit Felt to a Pent Shed Roof: A Step-by-Step Process
Gather Your Tools and Materials:
- Roofing felt
- Adhesive or nails
- Utility knife
- Hammer
- Measuring tape
- Ladder
Prepare the Roof Surface:
Ensure the roof is clean, dry, and free of debris. If replacing old felt, remove any nails or staples to create a smooth surface for the new felt.
Measure and Cut the Roofing Felt:
Measure the roof’s length and width, then cut the felt into strips, leaving a slight overhang on all sides to fold over the edges.
How to Fold Felt Roof Corners:
Start by laying the felt at the lower end of the roof, folding the corners carefully. Trim any excess felt to ensure a snug fit, and secure the folded corners with nails or adhesive.
Secure the Roofing Felt:
Attach the felt by applying adhesive or nails along the edges. Overlap each strip of felt by 5-10 cm to create a watertight seal and ensure full coverage.
Which Way Do You Felt a Shed Roof?
When applying felt to a pent shed roof, always start from the lower edge of the roof and work your way upward. Each layer of felt should overlap the previous one by 5-10 cm. This method ensures water runs off the roof smoothly, preventing any leaks from forming between the layers.
Do I Need Adhesive to Felt a Shed Roof?
Although nails are the primary method of securing roofing felt, adhesive adds an extra layer of protection. It helps to reinforce areas such as corners, ridges, and the roof’s edges, making it harder for the felt to be lifted by wind. For long-lasting durability, combining nails with adhesive is highly recommended.
How to Fold Felt Roof Corners Properly
Folding felt roof corners is a crucial step in achieving a professional finish. Make sure to:
- Cut the felt to fit snugly around the corners.
- Fold the edges carefully without creating wrinkles.
- Secure the corners with adhesive or nails to ensure they stay in place.
- Trim any excess felt to maintain a neat appearance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Felting a Pent Shed Roof
Insufficient Overlap Between Felt Layers:
Make sure to overlap each layer of felt by at least 5-10 cm. Failing to do so can allow water to seep between the layers, causing leaks.
Not Using Adhesive in Key Areas:
While nails are commonly used, adhesive is crucial for securing corners and roof edges, preventing wind from lifting the felt.
Incorrectly Folding the Corners:
Ensure that you properly fold and secure the felt around the corners to avoid creating gaps or wrinkles that could lead to leaks.
Skipping Surface Preparation:
Always clean the roof thoroughly before applying new felt. Any debris or old nails can create bumps that affect the finish and lead to tears.
Using the Wrong Nails:
Use galvanized roofing nails to prevent rusting, which can weaken the attachment points and shorten the lifespan of the felt.
How to Fix a Pent Shed Roof
If your pent shed roof is damaged, replacing the felt is a quick fix. Follow the steps outlined in this guide to remove the old felt, clean the surface, and install new layers of roofing felt for a fresh, waterproof roof.
Conclusion
Learning how to feel a pent shed roof can help extend the lifespan of your shed and protect it from the elements. By following the proper steps and avoiding common mistakes, your shed will remain durable, well-protected, and low-maintenance for years to come.
FAQs
How long does roofing last on a pent shed roof?
Roofing typically lasts 5-10 years, depending on weather conditions and maintenance.
Do I need special nails to attach roofing felt?
Yes, galvanized roofing nails are recommended to prevent rusting.
Can I feel my shed roof without removing the old felt?
It’s best to remove old felt before applying new layers to ensure a smooth, durable surface.
How much roofing do I need for a pent shed roof?
Measure the roof’s length and width, then add an extra 10% for overlap and trimming.