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A shed is only as weatherproof as its roof. Over time, exposure to wind, rain, and sun can wear down roofing felt, leading to leaks, rotting timbers, and damaged contents. Laying fresh roof felt is a straightforward and cost-effective way to protect your shed – and it’s well within reach of a competent DIYer.
Whether you’re replacing a worn-out covering or felting a new shed for the first time, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. We’ll explain when to repair vs replace, list all the tools and materials you’ll need, and take you step by step through the installation process. You’ll also find expert tips to help you get a professional finish and extend the life of your shed roof.
Replace or Repair? What to Look For
Not every damaged shed roof needs a complete re-felt. In some cases, a simple patch can extend the life of your existing roofing felt.
When to Patch
Small, localised issues can often be repaired without replacing the entire roof:
- Minor splits or tears caused by sharp branches or wear
- Lifting at the edges or corners
- Isolated punctures in otherwise sound felt
- Cracked areas around fixings
In these cases, you can use roofing adhesive and a patch of matching felt to cover the damaged area and reseal the surface. Patching is a quick fix, but it may not be suitable for older roofs.
When to Replace
If your shed roof shows any of the following, a full replacement is usually the better choice:
- Felt is brittle, heavily cracked or worn across large areas
- Visible leaks or damp patches inside the shed
- Persistent lifting despite previous repairs
- Widespread bubbling, warping or UV damage
- Moss or mould growth beneath the felt
A full re-felt ensures complete protection and allows you to inspect and repair the timber structure underneath. Check your shed roof annually – spring is a good time to catch damage before it worsens.
What You’ll Need for the Job
Using a caulking gun isn’t complicated, but following the correct steps will help you apply sealant cleanly and effectively.
Before you begin felting your shed roof, gather all the necessary tools and materials to make the job efficient and safe. Preparation is key.
Essential Materials and Tools
- Roofing felt: Choose the correct size and grade for your shed. Allow for at least a 5–10cm overlap on each side. Mineral or polyester-reinforced felt offers greater durability.
- Roofing nails or felt tacks: Galvanised nails prevent rust and hold the felt securely in place.
- Hammer: A standard claw hammer is ideal for driving in roofing nails.
- Stanley knife or utility blade: For trimming felt to size and shaping around corners.
- Roofing adhesive (optional): Helps seal overlaps and edges, particularly in exposed locations.
- Measuring tape: To check roof dimensions and cut felt accurately.
- Straight edge or baton: Assists with clean, straight cuts.
- Ladder: Ensure it’s stable and long enough to reach the roof safely.
- Safety equipment: Gloves, non-slip shoes, and safety glasses are strongly recommended.
How to Lay Shed Roof Felt: A Step-by-Step Guide
Replacing shed roofing felt is a manageable task for most DIYers. Follow these steps for a clean, weatherproof finish that protects your shed for years to come.
Step 1: Remove the Old Felt
Use a claw hammer or utility knife to carefully strip off the existing felt. Remove all nails or staples and check the roof boards underneath for signs of rot or damage.
Step 2: Measure and Cut the New Felt
Measure the shed roof, allowing an extra 5–10cm on each edge for overlap. Cut the felt to length using a straight edge and a sharp knife. If you have a pitched roof, you’ll need three strips: two for each side and one for the ridge.
Step 3: Lay the First Strip
Start at the lower edge of one side. Position the felt so it overhangs slightly, then fix it along the top edge using galvanised roofing nails spaced 10–15cm apart. Leave the bottom edge loose for now.
Step 4: Fit the Second Strip
Overlap the second strip by at least 5cm over the first. Nail along the top edge, again leaving the lower edge loose.
Step 5: Cover the Ridge
Lay the third strip along the ridge, overlapping both side sections. Secure with nails along both sides of the ridge line.
Step 6: Secure the Overhang
Tuck in or trim the overhanging felt along the eaves and gable ends. Nail or tack it into the timber, or fix it beneath a wooden baton for a neater finish.
Step 7: Seal and Finish (Optional)
Apply roofing adhesive under overlaps or at the edges for additional waterproofing – especially in exposed areas.
MP Moran’s Expert Tips for a Lasting Finish
Drawing on years of experience supplying roofing materials to both trade professionals and DIYers, here are our key recommendations for a successful shed felting job:
- Try a heavier grade felt. Polyester-reinforced or mineral-finished felts offer greater tear resistance and a longer service life than lighter-weight options. They’re particularly useful for sheds in exposed locations.
- Don’t felt in damp or cold. Felt is most successful when applied dry. Cold and wet weather can make the material brittle and difficult to work with.
- Always secure overlaps properly. Felt strips should be overlapped by at least 5cm, and consider using roofing adhesives or bitumen under the joins to prevent lifting.
- Store your felt flat. If you’ve bought felt that you’re not applying immediately, make sure you’re storing rolls in a flat, dry space to prevent curling and moisture damage.
Looking for advice on the right roofing felt or tools for your shed? Visit your local MP Moran branch or speak to a member of our team for tailored support.
Protect Your Shed with the Right Felt and Guidance
Refelting your shed roof is one of the most practical and cost-effective ways to extend the life of your outbuilding. With the right materials, tools, and a step-by-step approach, it’s a task that most DIYers can handle in just a few hours – and it makes a real difference.
Explore our full roofing felt range or visit your local branch for expert guidance and support. Open a Trade Account for flexible terms, exclusive pricing, and service tailored to your next project.