How to Felt a Shed Roof (UK Weather-Proofing Guide)

A properly felted shed roof is essential for keeping your building dry, protected, and long-lasting. In this guide, we explain exactly how to felt a shed roof, what materials to use, and how to avoid the most common mistakes.

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Why Felting a Shed Roof Is Important

Shed roofing felt acts as the main weather barrier, protecting timber panels from rain, frost, and long-term moisture damage. Without proper felting, even pressure-treated sheds can suffer rot and warping.

Prevents water ingress
Extends shed lifespan
Reduces timber movement
Improves overall weather resistance

Felted roofs are standard on most: Garden Sheds, Wooden Sheds and Security Sheds.

Wooden shed with felted roof installed correctly

What You Need to Felt a Shed Roof

Green mineral roofing felt or heavy-duty polyester felt
Galvanised clout nails or felt tacks
Hammer or roofing hammer
Sharp knife or utility blade
Timber battens for ridge capping (if applicable)

Quality materials make a big difference — cheaper felt often cracks within 1–2 winters.

Garden shed with felt roof fitted neatly along edges

How to Felt a Shed Roof (Step-by-Step)

Prepare the roof: Ensure boards are dry, clean, and securely fixed.
Start at the bottom edge: Roll out the felt horizontally with a slight overhang.
Fix with clout nails: Nail every 150–200mm along the top edge.
Overlap sections: Each layer should overlap the previous one by at least 75mm.
Secure ridge section: Fold felt over the apex or use a separate ridge strip.
Seal edges: Trim neatly and ensure edges are watertight.

Top tip: Always felt on a dry, mild day. Cold or damp conditions can cause the felt to shrink or lift later.

Timber shed with freshly installed felt roof

When Should You Replace Shed Felt?

Visible tears, cracks, or lifting edges
Water marks or damp inside the shed
Felt shrinking or curling back
Roof boards becoming exposed

If the structure itself is sound, refelting is far cheaper than replacing the entire shed.

Best Sheds for Felt Roofing

Felt roofing works particularly well on:

Looking for something more durable? Pressure Treated Sheds

Final Tips

A well-fitted felt roof can last 10–15 years when installed correctly. Regular checks after winter will help catch small issues before they become costly repairs.

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