Shed Roofing Felt: Selection, Installation, and Sourcing From Jewson

Roofing felt for sheds provides a protective, moisture-resistant layer that helps extend the life of a shed roof. This guide explains what shed roofing felt is, why it’s used, the different types available, and practical steps for installation. It also covers sourcing and buying tips when shopping at Jewson, along with alternatives in the U.S. market. Readers will gain actionable insights to choose the right felt, install it correctly, and budget effectively.

What Is Shed Roofing Felt?

Shed roofing felt is a bitumen-saturated material designed to act as a waterproof underlayment beneath roof coverings or as a basic protective layer on simple shed roofs. It helps shed water, slows evaporation, and reduces wood rot in poorly ventilated areas. Felt rolls are typically lightweight and easy to handle, making them popular for small outbuildings, garden sheds, and DIY projects.

Why Use Roofing Felt On A Shed?

Using roofing felt on a shed offers several benefits. It provides a weatherproof barrier during construction, protects plywood or boards from moisture, and adds a short-term layer of protection while a longer-term roof option is carried out. Felt is affordable, simple to install, and widely available from hardware stores and builders’ merchants, including Jewson.

Types Of Roofing Felt

Different felt types suit varying climates, roof pitches, and budget needs. The most common options include:

• Asphalt-Saturated Felt: Traditional, economical, and easy to install. Best for flat or low-slope sheds but may tear more easily in harsh conditions.
• Felt With Mineral Surfacing: Provides UV resistance and a more durable surface for weathering, reducing the rate of wear from sun exposure.
• Synthetic Roofing Underlayment: Higher tear resistance and longevity, often a more durable alternative to traditional felt, suitable for steeper pitches.
• Self-Adhering Felt: Sticky backing simplifies installation and reduces gaps, helpful in tight corners and around edges.

When choosing, consider climate, roof pitch, desired lifespan, and ease of installation. For sheds with higher exposure or variable weather, a mineral-surfaced or synthetic option may offer longer life and better performance.

Sourcing From Jewson: Availability And Tips

Jewson is a well-known builders’ merchant in the United Kingdom, offering a range of roofing felts and related accessories. If shopping at Jewson, verify product specifications, including weight, thickness, and surface finish, to match project needs. Look for:

• Roll Size And Weight: Common sizes include standard 1 m x 5 m or 1 m x 10 m rolls; ensure you have adequate waste allowance.
• Compatibility: Confirm the felt type is compatible with your chosen roof covering and local climate.
• Accessories: Nails, staples, flashing, adhesive, and edge trims may be sold separately—plan ahead.
• Local Availability: Availability can vary by branch; check stock online or call ahead to ensure the needed type is in stock.

For U.S. readers, equivalents can be found at Home Depot, Lowe’s, and regional lumberyards. When comparing, map the product’s specifications to your shed’s roof pitch and exposure. If a product is labeled for “underlayment” rather than “roofing felt,” read the technical data to confirm suitability for shed use.

Installation Basics

Proper installation ensures a watertight seal and longer life for the shed roof. Follow these practical steps:

• Prepare The Roof: Remove debris, inspect the roof deck for damage, and repair as needed. Ensure the surface is dry before installing felt.
• Measure And Cut: Measure the roof length and cut rolls with a sharp utility knife. Leave a small overhang beyond the eaves for drainage.
• Lay The First Row: Start at the bottom edge, allow an overhang of about 2–3 cm (1 inch) and align the felt straight. Secure with corrosion-resistant nails or staples every 20–25 cm (8–10 inches).
• Overlap And Fasten: Overlap subsequent rows by 100–150 mm (4–6 inches) and maintain consistent alignment. Ensure overlaps shed water away from the roof plane.
• Seal Edges And Rapids: Use nails or adhesive at edges, corners, and joints. For exposed edges, trim excess and cap with flashing or edge trim to prevent wind lift.
• Final Check: Inspect for loose edges, bubbles, or gaps. Re-secure any loose sections and seal with compatible waterproof tape if needed.

For steeper roofs or higher exposure, consider synthetic or self-adhering options to improve wind resistance and reduce installation time.

Maintenance And Longevity

Maintenance extends the life of shed roofing felt. Periodically inspect for cracks, UV wear, and loose edges, especially after storms. Clean any debris from gutters and ensure drainage directs water away from the shed walls. A replacement cycle for felt varies by material and climate but generally ranges from 5 to 15 years. In hot, sunny climates, felt with mineral surfacing tends to resist UV damage longer than plain asphalt-saturated varieties.

Cost And Budget Considerations

Costs depend on material type, roll size, and brand. Traditional asphalt-saturated felt is usually the most economical option, while mineral-surfaced or synthetic underlayments command higher prices but offer longer life and easier handling. When budgeting, factor in nails, sealants, edge trims, and potential labor time if hiring a professional. Compare unit costs per square meter or per roll and consider the overall durability and maintenance needs for your shed.

Safety And Disposal

Follow standard safety practices during installation, including wearing gloves, eye protection, and a stable ladder setup. Dispose of damaged or old felt according to local regulations. Do not burn felt, as it releases harmful fumes; recycling programs or approved disposal facilities are preferred.

Summary Of Key Tips

• Choose the right type: Asphalt-saturated for budget builds; mineral-surfaced or synthetic for longer life.
• Plan installation: Allow proper overlaps, align edges, and secure firmly to prevent wind lift.
• Source smartly: Check Jewson’s current stock or consult equivalent U.S. retailers for comparable products.
• Maintain regularly: Inspect after severe weather and replace as needed to protect the underlying roof deck.