Between missing shingles, wind damage, and pest infestations, there are plenty of reasons why you may need to replace your shed’s roof. The average shed roof replacement cost is $938, though you may find yourself paying anywhere from $591 to $1,341 for the cost of roof repair.*

In this guide, we explore the most influential cost factors to consider when budgeting for a new shed roof. We also explain whether it’s a project you can handle on your own or if you should hand it over to a professional.

*Unless otherwise noted, cost data in this article was sourced from Fixr and Angi.

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What Are Major Shed Roof Replacement Cost Factors?

Just like the price of fixing a damaged roof on a house, shed roof replacement costs vary based on several factors. Roof size and complexity, roofing material, labor fees, roof pitch, and removal of the existing roof all influence the final price.

Consider the following when determining your budget:

• Roof type and pitch: Steeper pitches and complex designs require more labor, materials, and skill, leading to higher costs.
• Material: Premium materials raise overall replacement costs, while cost-effective materials can help you stay within budget.

Roof Type and Pitch

Different shed roof types have different slope levels or pitches. The steeper the pitch, the more you can expect to pay per square foot to have it replaced. Steeper pitches are more difficult and dangerous to work on and have greater square footage.

Here are some common roof types:

Flat

A flat shed roof is a horizontal roof with a pitch of under 10 degrees. Flat roofs have a clean and modern appearance, but you’ll need to develop a drainage solution to prevent water accumulation.

Low Slope

Sheds with gentle inclines of between 10 and 20 degrees include skillion, gable, and hipped designs. They offer a balance between clean lines and effective water runoff. Skillion roofs are common and feature a single slope. Gable roofs include two slopes that meet in the center, while hipped roofs create a pyramid-like shape with slopes on all sides.

Conventional Slope

The typical gable roof has a centered peak and slopes of equal lengths. A saltbox shed is another example of a conventional slope. It features an asymmetrical slope, with one long side and one short side. You gain extra headroom on the taller side and don’t have to worry about drainage issues.

Steep Slope

Steep slopes have pitches of more than 34 degrees and resemble traditional barn roofs. The design offers increased storage space and helps shed snow and rain.

Cost by Shed Roof Type

Shed Roofing Material

Shed roof costs vary depending on the materials used. Here are some of the most common material costs to consider

Asphalt Shingles

Cedar Shingles

Clay Tiles

Metal Shingles

Slate Tiles

Cost by Roof Material

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What Are Shed Add-Ons That You Should Consider?

Replacing your shed’s roof is a great time to consider organizing your shed or adding on some new features. Consider any of the following.

• Dormers offer more headroom and cost $115 per square foot.
• Gable vents can minimize moisture and cost between $130 and $220.
• Ridge vents cost between $300 and $650, offering efficient ventilation for humid climates.
• Solar panels can power lights, heating, and cooling in your shed for as little as $100 or as much as $3,000.
• Skylights cost anywhere from $300 to $1,900 and offer a fun way to brighten up your storage space.
• Green roofs offer the potential for growing plants while enhancing insulation, costing up to $30 per square foot.
• Reflective cool roofs bounce heat away, keeping your shed cooler for as little as 15 cents per square foot.

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How To Save on Shed Roof Replacement

The national average shed roof replacement cost is $938, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t ways to save on your project costs. Here are a few ideas.

• DIY simpler tasks, such as debris removal.
• Compare quotes from multiple roofing contractors.
• Opt for cost-effective roofing materials.
• Consider roof shingle repair rather than a full replacement, if possible.
• Explore recycled or salvaged roofing materials.
• Properly maintain your shed roof to extend its life span.

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What Are Additional Shed Roofing Cost Factors?

The following factors, like an initial roof cleaning cost, may also contribute to the total cost of your shed roof replacement.

Labor

Hiring a carpenter to replace your shed’s roof costs about $70 per hour, though location heavily influences labor rates. Labor costs tend to be much higher in areas with a high cost of living, including cities. Unless very difficult to access, rural areas often have more affordable labor rates that coincide with a lower cost of living.

Current Roof Condition

Like most home improvement projects, scope matters. A small repair to your shed’s roof will cost much less than a full shed roof replacement. If your roof deck is damaged, repair and reinforcement will add to the total cost.

Old Roof Disposal

Your contractor will likely include the cost of removing and disposing of your old types of roofing materials in their price. Otherwise, you’ll pay between $300 and $500 to rent a dumpster for the week.

Underlayment and Flashing

Underlayment costs anywhere from $1 to $5 per square foot and can preserve the integrity of your shed’s roof while preventing leaks and water damage. Roof flashing also prevents water infiltration, specifically around vents and skylights, and costs between $15 and $25 per linear foot.

Ventilation

Adding ventilation to your shed can help air circulate, controlling moisture and regulating temperatures. A simple static box vent costs between $65 and $190.

Ice and Water Shield

If you live in an area with freezing winters, an ice and water shield is an underlayment upgrade that provides extra protection against ice dams. Installation costs between $50 and $125 for every 100 square feet.

Painting

A fresh coat of paint can help an old shed match its new roof. Expect to pay anywhere from $1.50 to $4 per square foot to spruce up your shed’s exterior walls.

Permits

Building permit costs range from $250 to $500 for larger shed designs. However, smaller sheds may not require a permit at all for roof replacement. Reach out to your local planning department for confirmation.

Insurance

Most homeowners insurance policies include shed coverage, so you don’t need to shop for individual shed insurance. However, you should contact your insurance agent when replacing your shed’s roof to ensure it’s adequately covered, especially when choosing a high-end material.

Warranty

Roofing material can include a warranty upon purchase. Some roofing contractors may also include warranties as part of their standard installation service, while others may offer extended warranties for an additional cost. Before taking on additional fees, explore the fine print of every warranty to decide if the coverage and length are adequate for the price.

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Should You DIY vs. Professional Shed Roof Replacement?

Homeowners with a bit of DIY experience may wonder if shed roof replacement is something they should consider doing themselves. Here’s what you should know when deciding between grabbing a ladder or hiring a professional.

DIY

Replacing a shed roof is more involved than a leaky roof fix, but it’s not impossible to do it yourself. You’ll need safety gear, a ladder, tools, and the new roof materials to get started. After removing the old roofing materials, you’ll need to inspect the roof deck and replace or reinforce any damaged areas.

Next, lay down a new weather-resistant underlayment. Then, position the new shingle roof to check the layout before securing it. Install any necessary flashing and sealant and finish up by installing any ridge caps or vent covers.

Give your new roof a quick inspection, ensuring proper water drainage, and you’re good to go. You’ll save hundreds of dollars in labor costs by taking on a roof repair.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XgFN7o1Xk7Iu0026feature=oembed

Professional

If you’re not sure your skills are up to the job, it’s best to call in a professional for your roofing needs. A poor DIY job can result in leaks and water damage, but working with a roofing contractor can ensure a smooth and successful installation. 

Professional roofers offer:

• Expertise in roofing techniques
• Access to specialized tools and equipment
• Compliance with safety regulations
• Proper installation
• Time and labor savings
• Warranty coverage
• Quality assurance

Compared to a DIY project, professional shed roof replacement reduces the risk of mistakes and provides peace of mind.

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How To Hire a Professional Roofer?

Here are some steps to take when deciding among professional roofing companies for your shed roof replacement.

• Research and ask family and friends for recommendations for reputable roofing professionals nearby.
• Check their credentials, insurance, and licenses.
• Ask for references from prior customers.
• Explore their social media pages for pictures and reviews of past work.
• Review the payment schedule and terms before signing a contract.
• Get everything in writing and make sure the contract includes warranty information and outlines the scope of work, including a timeline and detailed cost breakdown.

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Our Conclusion

If your shed’s roof is damaged beyond repair, you’ll need to replace it. The cost to replace your shed’s roof varies based on your roof’s pitch, the roofing material, your location, the scope of the project, and several other factors. On average, it costs roughly $938 but can range from around $600 to more than $1,000.  

While you can DIY shed roof replacement, you’ll need the proper materials and skills. Professional shed roof replacement will cost more but save you time and ensure the job gets done right. Be sure to ask friends and family for recommendations and make sure the contractor has the proper licensing and credentials.

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FAQ About Shed Roof Replacement

What is the least expensive way to roof a shed?

The least expensive way to roof a shed is to use asphalt shingles, as they’re the most affordable material. However, metal roofing can save on costs, despite it being more expensive up-front. Metal roofing lasts longer and can give you a better return on investment.

What is the best type of roof for a shed?

The best type of roof for a shed varies by person. Consider your location, budget, and climate. The best roof type for you should be within budget, withstand the weather, and protect the contents within the shed.

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