How to Build a Slanted Shed Roof: Step-by-Step Guide

Do you find yourself needing some space to store your garden tools and other outdoor essentials? Or maybe you’d want an extra room around and your backyard just happens to be big enough to house one?

Whatever your reason is, learning how to build a shed sure has its benefits. Make sure to check first for local regulations on building a shed in your yard. Ask about the maximum surface area that doesn’t require you to apply for a permit. If you’re planning to build something bigger, make sure you secure the permit for it.

Once you’ve got that covered, here are the materials you’ll need in building a shed.

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What You’ll Need

The materials you’ll be needing depends on what type of shed you’ll be building and how big you plann it to be. But generally, here’s what you’ll need for a regular shed with a slanted roof:

• Tape measure. This is to measure and mark your shed’s area. It’s also to make sure all your measurements are accurate before you even start building your shed.
• Level. As with building any floor or foundation of a structure, you’ll need to make sure everything’s—you guessed it—level. This is to avoid water from pooling in one side or to stop balls from rolling over to the other side when you store them.
• Timber. The size and number of pieces you need depends on your shed’s area. Calculate how many you’d need for your shed’s walls. Make sure to also account for pieces to be used in your foundation and roof structure.
• Saw. You’ll have to cut some pieces of wood along the way. It’s nice to have a saw (or anything similar used to cut wood) around to make things easier.
• Roofing material. This also depends on your preference. But asphalt shingles are great to use since they’re easy to deal with for any skill level. They’re also the most affordable option that gives you great quality for your roofing. Here’s how to measure a roof for shingles.
• Hammer and nails. These are to fasten your pieces together and make sure your structure stays sturdy.
• Vents. Whichever vent you decide to use for your shed, make sure it gives it enough ventilation and airflow. This is to avoid moisture from building up inside. Having proper shed ventilation also makes it more durable.
• Siding. Vinyl siding is usually great for use on sheds as it’s cheap but durable. Just make sure you apply it properly so that it lasts long. If you’re not sure how to do it yourself, seek the help of a professional.
• Protective gear. Don’t forget to wear gloves so you can avoid getting splinters. You might also need some goggles to protect your eyes when working.

Roof Installation

Here are the steps on how to install a slanted roof for your shed.

1. Build the rafters. These are the wooden beams you see under roofs. Rafters are the structure that would support your roofing material later on. Make sure they’re equally spaced to keep your structure sturdier.
2. Cut these angled rafters with a notch for the walls. Use hurricane ties to secure them in place.
3. Attach a layer of roof felt over your rafters. This would help keep the slanted roof watertight. Make sure everything’s tight and secure before you fasten the felt layer.
4. Take out your asphalt shingles and start installing them on your roof. Covering a slanted roof is one of the most important steps in building a shed. Again, if you’re not confident doing it yourself, bring in some professionals to do the job for you.
5. Add a vent to the upper sides of the shed. Or you can also install a roof vent, if that would be easier for you.

Covering a Slanted Roof

A shed roof is just like any other roof. You have different options for it. One roofing material may do better than another, depending on your area’s climate. And when climate isn’t that big of an issue, choosing a roof for your shed boils down to aesthetics.

Asphalt shingles are widely used for roofing as they’re versatile. They’re also much easier to install for beginners compared with other roofing materials. They’re easier to replace, too. If you have a cracked or curled shingle, it wouldn’t take much to replace them.

If you live in an area with harsher weather conditions, though, you might want to consider other roofing materials like metal or slate. These are made to be more durable and last much longer than asphalt shingles. Metal roofs are more eco-friendly, too.

How Much Does it Cost to Build a Shed With a Slanted Roof?

The cost of building a shed differs greatly depending on its size and design. You’ll have to take into account all the materials mentioned above.

If your shed is more high-end—like if it works as an entertainment or leisure area more than a storage space—the costs will definitely be higher. But overall, building a shed with a slanted roof usually costs around $3,000–$4,000.

If you’re only planning a roof replacement for your shed, the price ranges from around $150 to $750.

Check out this DIY Shed Cost Calculator to get a general idea of how much you’ll have to spend on your shed. Remember to always add a 5–10% allowance for whatever budget you arrive at. It’s better to be prepared than to be taken by surprise with all the costs in building a shed.

Building a Shed in Your Backyard

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Summer is just around the corner. Maybe it’s time to upgrade your backyard and add a shed to it. A shed can work as a storage space or living area. When designed properly, it can even serve both purposes at once. Sounds great, doesn’t it?

To recap, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to build a shed with a slanted roof:

• Measure your shed’s surface area. Mark it accordingly.
• Lay the foundation of your shed. Make sure it’s level.
• Build your shed’s structure using the timber you have. Fasten each piece securely.
• Start laying out the rafters for your shed’s roof. It’s a slanted roof. All you need is to space the beams equally across the area.
• Make an angled cut on the beams. These will serve as a notch for your shed’s walls. Fasten your rafters to your shed.
• Add a layer of roofing felt to make it watertight. Make sure it’s applied securely and tightly.
• Start installing the asphalt shingles on your shed’s roof.
• Don’t forget to add a vent for your shed. This is to keep it sturdier and more durable.