Shed Roof Replacement Cost: Understanding Factors Influencing Shed Roof Replacement Expenses
Curious about how much a new shed roof will cost you?
At some point, every homeowner with a garden shed will ask this question. After all, roofs have a limited lifespan and, when the time comes…
Prices can vary widely.
Here’s the good news. Learning the factors that influence shed roof replacement cost can help you keep costs low and avoid nasty surprises.
In this guide:
- What Affects Shed Roof Replacement Costs?
- The Different Types of Shed Roofing Materials
- Labour Costs and Time Estimates
- How To Save Money On Your Shed Roof
What Affects Shed Roof Replacement Costs?
A few different variables will determine the amount a homeowner ends up paying for a new shed roof.
Here’s the thing:
Not all shed roofs are the same. The final price tag will depend on the size of the shed, the chosen materials, and where the property is located.
Let’s take a look at each one…
Shed Size
This is pretty self-explanatory. The larger the shed, the more materials needed. It’s simple maths.
Smaller sheds such as 6×4 garden storage units will cost much less than larger 10×12 garden workshops. Most roofing contractors charge by the square metre. When looking into new shed roof costs, you can expect to pay an average of around £40 per m² for a full replacement including materials and labour.
If this all seems a bit abstract, consider a standard garden shed. A typical replacement job would likely fall between £200 and £400 all in.
Location
Location, location, location.
Where the property is located in the UK can matter more than most people would realise.
Average labour rates in London and the Southeast tend to be higher than the national average. Conversely, homeowners in the North of England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland often benefit from more competitive pricing.
The difference can be significant.
Jobs which cost £300 to cover in Manchester might run to £400 or more in Central London.
Roof Accessibility
Can the roofer easily access the shed roof?
If the shed is tucked away in a corner, obscured by trees or hedges, or surrounded by other obstacles, expect to pay a premium on the labour costs. Easy access equals faster work. Faster work equals lower bills.
The Different Types of Shed Roofing Materials
The roofing material you choose has a huge impact on the overall shed roof replacement cost.
Each option has different price points, lifespans, and benefits to consider…
Felt Roofing
Felt remains the UK’s go-to roofing material for sheds.
Why?
Well, it’s affordable (around £5 to £15 per m²), easy to install and creates a proper waterproof seal when done correctly.
Most standard sheds come with felt roofing from the factory. Replacement is straightforward and budget-friendly.
EPDM Rubber
EPDM rubber roofing is quickly growing in popularity.
This synthetic rubber membrane is far more durable and long-lasting than traditional felt. Materials for this job will cost you between £30 and £60 per m². The higher up-front cost will pay dividends in the long-term, however, with EPDM roofing membranes lasting for 25+ years.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofs are another great option for durability and modern style.
Weather-resistant, low maintenance and able to last for decades, metal sheds are a popular choice among homeowners. Metal roofing materials will usually set you back £40 to £70 per m².
Shingles
Roof shingles are a way to transform the look of your garden shed.
Available in a variety of colours and styles, roof shingles are popular among homeowners who want their shed to complement the appearance of their property. Costs for shingle materials range from £20 to £50 per m² depending on quality.
Labour Costs and Time Estimates
Accurately budgeting for labour costs is key to understanding the shed roof replacement cost.
Here’s what to expect:
Most roofers will charge an average of £30 per hour for this type of work. A typical shed roof replacement takes 3-7 hours depending on size and complexity. Total labour costs for most standard sheds therefore should sit between £90 and £210.
According to data from Eurostat, UK homeowners spent an estimated £675 million on garden buildings in 2023 alone.
DIY or No?
Want to replace the roof yourself?
Replacing shed felt is one of the more accessible DIY roofing jobs out there. Materials are cheap, and there’s a lot of good tutorials available online.
But pause for a moment and think about this:
Professional installation ensures the job is done right the first time. A poorly installed roof can quickly lead to water damage and mold. Sometimes it’s just better to hire a pro.
How To Save Money On Your Shed Roof
Nobody likes to overpay. So, here are some practical tips for keeping costs low:
- Get multiple quotes. Never accept the first price offered. Aim to get at least three quotes from different local tradespeople.
- Choose the right material. Felt is fine for most garden sheds. There’s no need to spend top dollar on premium materials unless the shed is serving a special purpose.
- Time it right. Roofing contractors are less busy during the autumn and winter months. Scheduling work during slower periods might help you get better rates.
With around 87% of UK households owning a garden, shed maintenance is something which affects millions of homeowners each year.
When To Replace vs Repair
Not every roof issue needs a complete roof replacement.
Minor problems like small tears in the felt or a few loose sections can often be patched up for under £100. However, widespread damage, sagging or persistent leaks are usually a sign the whole roof needs replacing.
A good rule of thumb:
If the cost of repairs is more than 50% of the cost of a full replacement, just bite the bullet and replace the entire roof.
Bringing It All Together
Figuring out the cost to replace a shed roof is all about understanding the key factors.
Shed size, choice of materials, location, and roof accessibility all play a role. Most homeowners can expect to pay between £200 and £500 for a standard shed roof replacement.
To quickly recap:
- Shed size directly influences material costs
- Location influences labour rates across the UK
- Felt is the most affordable material option
- Professional installation typically takes 3-7 hours
- Getting multiple quotes will save you money
The shed at the bottom of the garden is often an afterthought. But keeping that roof in good condition helps protect everything inside. A well-maintained shed roof can last 10-20 years or more.
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