When it comes to garden rooms, a well-built roof is crucial. It serves the purpose of protecting your garden room and its contents from the weather, while also providing insulation.
Additionally, the design of the roof can enhance the overall look of your timber building, complementing the existing style of your garden and home. There are various options available for garden room roofs, each with its own visual appeal and protective qualities.
In this article, we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of popular roofing materials such as EPDM coverings, fiberglass, wooden tiles, living roofs, artificial grass roofs, insulated roof panels, slates, tiles and shingles, thatched roofing, and metal sheeting. By providing an overview of these options, we aim to help you make an informed decision regarding the best roof choice for your garden room.
Metal Roof Sheets for a Trendy Option
Metal roof sheets, originating from Scandinavian architectural design, are becoming increasingly popular as a trendy choice for garden room roofs.
As a leading supplier of corrugated roof sheets, we have completed a number of projects using metal sheets, which are often paired with composite cladding and decking to suit.
A garden room recently completed using the anthracite corrugated roof sheets, supplied by Trade Warehouse.
Another outbuilding using the black 13/3 corrugated sheets for cladding and roofing.
A Trade Warehouse customer using the plain composite cladding for their garden room.
These metal sheets, typically made of steel, are easy to install and handle. Metal roofs, especially those made of galvanised metal, are highly durable, resistant to fire and rot.
If you would like more information, please don't hesitate to contact our team and we can send you free samples or offer you a quote.
EPDM Covering
If you're after a flat roof for your garden room, an EPDM covering could be the perfect option for you. Otherwise known as Ethylene Propylene Diene Terpolymer, an EPDM covering is a thick rubber sheet that is commonly used for both commercial and garden buildings.
This type of roofing is entirely water-resistant and designed with special kerbs to redirect rainwater to the gutter system, which helps prevent water build-up and leaks. We are a leading supplier of metal rainwater systems, which look great when paired with your garden room.
Best of all, EPDM is typically made from recycled materials and has a lifespan of 50 years plus, making it an economically and environmentally-friendly option.
EPDM sheets are black/grey in colour and are not the most aesthetically pleasing choice; however, it is possible to cover the sheets with stones to better match your existing outdoor surroundings.
Fiberglass Roofing Solutions
Fiberglass sheets are a commonly chosen option for flat roofs due to their waterproof and fire retardant properties. Additionally, they require minimal maintenance and have a lifespan of up to 30 years.
The installation of fiberglass sheets in a single piece, without any joints and with the addition of drip trims, greatly reduces the risk of leaks. However, it is important to note that harsh weather conditions can potentially cause cracking, which may lead to leaks.
Fiberglass sheets are available in various colours, including bright, dark, metallic, smooth, or ribbed finishes. While these options are well-suited for contemporary gardens, they may not complement more traditional landscaping styles.
Wooden Tiles for a Traditional Feel
Wooden tiles, in particular Cedar, offer unrivalled quality, including protection against wind and rain, insulation, and stunning aesthetics for a traditional feel. Cedar shingles date back to the 19th century and can be found in National Park buildings across North America, as well as in many Scandinavian countries.
Cedar is a low-density wood, which means minimal shrinkage over the years, and a strong, reliable roof for your garden room for years to come. It is also a good insulator, helping keep your room warm naturally throughout the year. Moreover, Cedar has a beautiful red colour that ages gracefully to a silvery-grey. And, if this doesn't suit your taste, you can always apply a stain of your choice. Pair your Cedar roof with rustic Cedar cladding for a picture-perfect, traditional garden building.
Living Roofs for Sustainability and Beauty
A living roof, also known as a green roof, is a roof that is covered with growing vegetation, soil, as well as an irrigation and drainage system. This is typically laid on top of a waterproof roof barrier, like an EPDM sheet, for example.
Living roofs are fantastic insulators, helping keep your garden room warm throughout the year and helping you save on heating bills, while also providing some noise insulation for added privacy.
When it comes to installing a living roof, you can sow the seeds yourself and wait for plants to grow; however, many people choose to lay down pre-grown turf to achieve their desired look from day one. The great thing about living roofs is you can choose the types of plants you grow, be that colourful wildflowers to attract more wildlife to your garden or plain turf for a lower-maintenance, hassle-free option.
Whatever greenery you choose, a living roof will require some level of maintenance which may be costly in the long run and will require easy access to the roof.
Exploring Synthetic Turf Roof
If you are well-versed in the subject matter, you may consider choosing an artificial turf roof as an alternative to natural grass. This option requires minimal upkeep as it does not need to be watered.
However, it's important to note that artificial turf roofs, being composed of plastic, offer limited environmental advantages. Additionally, they have the potential to accumulate dirt over time, resulting in an unpleasant odor.
Insulated Roof Panels for Enhanced Insulation
Coming in at a slightly higher price point than most roof types is insulated roof panels. These are large sheets made from a double layer of colour-coated steel with insulation in between that form both the interior ceiling and exterior roof layer.
As such, this is a fairly simple type of roof to install. Note that it is important to do your research and choose the appropriate thickness to ensure that your room is well-insulated.
Insulated roof panels may not be the best choice for larger builds since extra support may be required, resulting in visible interior beams. Likewise, you will be limited to wall-fitted lights or lamps since you cannot install ceiling light fixtures.
Authentic Slate Tiles for a High-End Look
When it comes to roofing materials, authentic slate tiles are considered a high-end choice. Not only is the raw material of superior quality, but you also need to use a double layer to create a waterproof barrier and prevent any leakage. Despite this, the dark grey hue of slate provides a stunning and striking aesthetic that complements any contemporary outdoor area, making it worth the investment.
If you're looking for a more affordable option, slate-effect roof tiles are a great alternative. These tiles closely resemble authentic slate but are actually composed of a combination of recycled plastic and limestone. They are much more durable and easier to handle, resulting in reduced labor costs and a decreased risk of accidents.
Types of Tiles and Shingles for Pitched Roofs
Classic overlapping shingles, also known as tile strips, are one of the most popular types of pitched roofs found in residential buildings. These shingles are typically made from materials like concrete or clay, providing homeowners with a wide range of design choices. Whether you prefer a Mediterranean style or a traditional British brick-red, a tile roof allows you to showcase your personal style in your garden room's roof design.
As an alternative, asphalt tiles offer a cost-effective and waterproof option, available in various colors like black, blue, green, red, and brown. However, they may not provide the sophisticated and rustic appearance you may be looking for.
Conclusion
Incorporating innovative concepts and design ideas into your garden room roof can greatly enhance its functionality and aesthetics.
Whether you choose the eco-friendly option of a living roof or the timeless charm of wooden tiles, selecting the right roof for your garden room is an important decision.
Consider factors such as durability, insulation, and visual appeal to create a stunning outdoor space that complements your garden and home. With careful planning and expert guidance, you can transform your garden room roof into a standout feature that elevates your overall garden design.
FAQs-
Do living roofs require a lot of maintenance?
Answer: Living roofs do require some level of maintenance, including regular watering, weeding, and occasional pruning. However, the level of maintenance required can vary depending on the types of plants chosen and the specific design of the living roof. -
What is the lifespan of EPDM roof coverings?
Answer: EPDM roof coverings can have a lifespan of 50 years or more, making them a durable and long-lasting option for garden room roofs. Additionally, EPDM is a sustainable choice as it is typically made from recycled materials. -
Are metal roof sheets prone to rust or dents?
Answer: While metal roof sheets, especially those made of galvanized metal, are resistant to rust and rot, they can still be prone to rust or dents caused by falling debris or nesting birds. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help mitigate these issues and prolong the lifespan of a metal roof. -
Can I install ceiling light fixtures with insulated roof panels?
Answer: Insulated roof panels typically do not allow for the installation of ceiling light fixtures. However, wall-fitted lights or lamps can still be used to provide lighting in the garden room. -
How long do fiberglass roofs last?
Answer: Fiberglass roofs can have a lifespan of up to 30 years with proper installation and maintenance. However, extreme weather conditions can potentially cause cracking, leading to leaks. Regular inspection and timely repairs can help ensure the longevity of a fiberglass roof.
