Having a great roof is one of the most important aspects of building a shed.  You want to protect your possessions from the weather and keep your own head dry when inside.  Lets talk about how to build a roof for a shed.  I don't know about you, but I like simple.  I like it easy.  No roof is easier to build than the Pent Roof, commonly referred to as a flat roof shed. It's the easiest…

No matter whether you're a beginner or a seasoned woodworker.

No matter whether you're building your first shed or your 100th.

No matter if you do not have the DIY skills or aptitude for building.

If you have been wondering how to build a flat roof shed, then you've come to the right spot. A flat roof shed is the most common type of storage shed. It is the most manageable form of shed roof construction and uses asphalt rolls as roofing material. On top of that a flat roof shed will only require re-roofing every 10 to 20 years if maintained properly.

Step 1

Cut five 8-foot 2-by-4s for the horizontal supports across the top of the shed for the flat roof.  Lay them flat across the two longest walls parallel to the shortest walls.  Space them out equally and nail them to the roof supports with 2 1/2-inch nails.

Step 2

Now you will add protection to the roof.  Before you start make sure it is dry and clear from any debris.  Starting at one end, place a layer of underlayment over the roof.  Be sure to leave an extra 2 inches to hang over the edges. This will act as a protective membrane and provide an additional barrier against bad weather. 

Step 3
Next you need to start cutting the asphalt rolls to the appropriate length. It is very important to make sure the rolls are cut longer than required.

Step 4
The next step is laying the asphalt rolls on top of the underlayment.  Be sure to leave an extra 2 or 3 inches hanging over the edge of the roof from all sides. This provides drainage for rainwater.  Tack the rolls into place. When the entire roof has been covered, use nails to secure the asphalt into place. The nails need to be 4 to 6 inches apart.

Step 5

Cover the entire roof with a tar based solution of roof paint.  This will ensure you get the maximum life span out of your shed roof.

That was definitely easy, but there are few things to remember.  Inspect the shed's roof either twice a year or after any bad storms. Be sure to pay attention to the seams in the roof where the asphalt has overlapped. If you find any gaps fix them with roof cement. Also make sure there is no build up of water.  It will become heavy and may cause your roof to collapse.