How to Apply Shed Felt to Your Garden Shed Roof
Shed felt is an essential material for protecting your garden shed from the elements. Whether you’re building a new shed or replacing old, worn-out felt, applying shed felt correctly ensures your shed remains waterproof and durable for years to come. In this guide, we’ll take you through the steps to install shed felt effectively and efficiently.
Why Use Shed Felt?
Shed felt provides a weatherproof layer, protecting your shed from rain, snow, and other environmental factors. It also prevents damage to the wooden structure beneath and extends the lifespan of your shed. Shed felt is affordable, easy to install, and available in a variety of colors and finishes to suit your garden aesthetics.
What You’ll Need
Before you start, gather the following materials and tools:
- Shed felt rolls
- Clout nails (galvanized)
- A hammer
- Utility knife or sharp scissors
- Adhesive (optional for added durability)
- Tape measure
- Ladder
- Safety gloves
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Shed Felt
1. Prepare the Shed Roof
- Inspect the roof for any damage, such as loose boards or protruding nails. Repair or replace these as needed.
- Clean the surface of the roof to remove dirt, debris, or old felt remnants.
- Ensure the roof is dry before beginning the installation process.
2. Measure and Cut the Felt
- Measure the dimensions of the shed roof, allowing for an overlap of 50mm on edges and a 75mm overhang on the sides to protect the wooden edges.
- Roll out the felt and cut it to size using a utility knife or sharp scissors. It’s best to work on one piece of felt at a time.
3. Lay the First Layer
- Place the first piece of felt on one side of the roof, ensuring the overhang aligns with the roof edges.
- Secure the felt along the top edge with clout nails, spaced about 100mm apart.
- Pull the felt tight and hammer nails along the sides and bottom edges.
4. Apply Additional Layers
- Lay the next strip of felt, overlapping the first layer by 50mm to create a watertight seal.
- Secure the edges with clout nails as before, ensuring a neat and snug fit.
- Repeat this process for the other side of the roof.
5. Finish with the Ridge
- For apex roofs, cut a final piece of felt to cover the ridge where the two sides meet.
- Lay the ridge felt over the top, ensuring it overlaps both sides evenly.
- Nail it securely along both edges to prevent water ingress.
6. Secure the Edges
- Trim any excess felt using a utility knife for a clean finish.
- Fold the overhanging edges underneath and nail them to the underside of the roof for added durability.
- For extra protection, consider applying adhesive along the overlaps and edges.
Tips for Success
- Work on a dry, calm day to avoid complications from wind or rain.
- Always unroll the felt and let it settle before cutting or applying it to reduce creases.
- Use gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges and nails.
Maintaining Your Shed Roof
Regularly inspect your shed roof for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, tears, or loose nails. Replace damaged sections promptly to prevent leaks and prolong the life of your shed.
Conclusion
Applying shed felt is a straightforward DIY project that protects your shed and its contents from the elements. By following these steps and using high-quality materials, you can ensure your garden shed remains sturdy and waterproof for years to come. For premium shed felt and roofing supplies, explore our range at GetYourselfFelt.co.uk today!
