Shed roof which is also known as skillion, pent-roof, mono-pitched, or lean-to-roof is a roof that is designed in such a way that it slopes down in one direction. This type of roof which was first popular for sheds only is now being also used for houses and commercial buildings. The slope of the shed roof varies depending upon the design of the building.

In this article,  we are going to discuss some pros and cons of shed roofs. Shed roofs like all other roof types have their own advantages and disadvantages. In some circumstances, having a shed roof can be beneficial while in other situations it can become quite a headache in terms of construction and maintenance. In this article, we are going to explain each and everything to get you equipped with the knowledge before you can make any decision to get this type of roof installed.

Advantages of shed roof

●     Cost-effectiveness

As compared to the other roofing styles, the shed roof is more cost-effective. The reason for its cost-effectiveness is its simple style according to All Seasons Roofing Albuquerque. It can be easily constructed by contractors with fewer materials as compared to other roof styles which result in its low cost. 

This style was first used by homeowners for their garden or garage shed but with time people and especially architects realized they can incorporate this design in corporate and commercial buildings which will prove cost-effective for the owners’ end businesses.

●    Material usage

The best thing about choosing a shed roof is that you can use any type of roofing material on it. by using different types of material you can choose to make your roof slope steeper or flat.

A wide variety of materials that can be used for shed roofs are:

• Asphalt shingles
• Cedar shakes
• Roll roofing
• Clay roof type
• Metal roofing

Although, you can choose from any one of these mentioned materials for your roof, try applying the material that would increase the value of your house. Also, use a material that would last for many years. Out of all the materials that are listed here, roll roofing is cheap and might not be durable for a long period.

●    Best for modern house plan

This is no secret but such roofs are the best fit for modern house architecture and will provide you with a minimalistic look that looks clean and simple when it is done. You can easily install solar panels on it. Other than that, you can have a living roof. If you want to go green or want to produce energy then a shed roof might prove to be the best option as compared to other roof styles.

You can also consult with a contractor who will guide you about all you want to do with your roof. 

●    Prevents polling of water

Shed roofs also prevent the pooling of water because of the slope. Although it is up to you how steep you want your roof to be, you can have a higher steep if you want to speed up the process of water and snow drainage.

Your local contractors know the minimum steepness requirements and can guide you best about that.

●    Allows for skylight installation

If you want to make your house more aesthetically pleasing, you can install a skylight on your shed roof. A shed roof is the best roof type for skylight installation. Skylight installation has many advantages:

• Ensures ventilation and removes any stale air if your house doesn’t have windows.
• You will cut your electricity expense because you won’t have to turn on the lights during the daytime.
• You will get your daily dose of vitamin D. 

Even if you don’t want to go with skylight installation, you can still install windows. The tall wall can support many windows and there is a lot of space for window installation.

Disadvantages of shed roof

●    Shed roofs need boxed gutters

A shed roof has one side to get rid of the water and it creates pressure on it. Because of this, you will need a boxed gutter. It’s made of a wooden frame. The gutter box is not a disadvantage in itself but it needs excessive maintenance and cleaning otherwise it would get clogged.

One thing that you can do is to make your gutter boxes waterproof with PVC membrane which is commonly used for commercial applications. 

●     The design might not appeal to everyone

As the shed roof has one slope, it is more basic than the two slope roofs. If you want a double-story house and you like more complex designs then this roof type might not appeal to you. This style suits small houses and commercial buildings with a minimal construction design. Moreover, it might not appeal to everyone so go with your taste.

●    Susceptibility to high winds

If you live in an area where there are high winds and hurricanes then this type of roof might not be suitable for you. High winds can easily lift the roof and can damage it easily. Your contractor can also help you in this manner and can provide you with guidance.

Lower interior ceiling heights.

Because of the single slope, in some areas of the home, there is less space. When doing interior designing this unevenness can cause problems like using the space effectively. It also depends on the steepness of the roof. If the roof is steeper then the unevenness will increase which will cut your storage space and your access to the attic.

●    Difficulty retrofitting an existing roof

If you want to replace your existing flat roof with a shed roof then it might cause some problems. You cannot build it with the same flat roof rather you would have to replace it with a new shed roof. Also, you need one wall to be taller than the other to get a shed roof installed. The shed roof is more suitable for new constructions.

Conclusion

Having a shed roof installed in your home can increase the value of your home and can make it aesthetically pleasing. It would not be wrong to say that it is a trending style in roofing these days and we don’t see this trend diminishing anytime soon. Although it has many advantages, you should always see any potential disadvantages it may pose if you go with this roof type. Keep in mind it’s not the best choice for particular areas where there is a high frequency of winds and storms. In this regard, the best advice we can give is to consult your local contractor who can provide you with valuable information.

Article Submitted By Community Writer