Worried about the weather ruining your garden room?
A garden roof is one of the most important features to consider when planning your garden room. Not only will it protect you and your furniture from the elements, but a well-designed roof can also add style and character to your space.
When choosing a roof for your garden room, there are many factors to consider including budget, design, and climate.
To help you make the best decision for your garden room, we’ve compiled a list of the top 15 garden roof ideas for 2022.
Contents
Garden Room Roof Construction
If you are planning on adding a garden room to your home, one of the first things you need to think about is the roof.
There are many different types of roofing materials available, so it’s important to choose one that is right for your needs.
The most important factors to consider when choosing a roof for your garden room are:
- The climate in your area.
- The type of roof you want.
- The style of your garden room.
- Your budget.
Once you have considered all of these factors, you will be able to narrow down your options and choose the best roof for your garden room.
A timber frame is generally the foundation for most garden rooms as it is a strong and durable material. It can also be adapted to any roof type, so it is a good option if you are unsure about what roof you want.
Pitched roofs are a popular choice for garden rooms as they offer more headroom and allow for more light to enter the space. They are also more effective at keeping out the weather.
Flat roofs are a popular choice for garden rooms as they are easier and cheaper to construct. However, they are not as effective at keeping out the weather and can be more susceptible to leaks.
These options are the same for a self-build extension, sun room, summer room, shed or conservatory. Many people who have glass roof conservatories are now considering options to make them more energy efficient by adding a solid garden roof.
Velux windows
Depending on how many windows you want in your garden room, you might consider installing Velux windows. These are a great way to let in natural light and ventilation. They are also relatively easy to install and maintain.
If you live in an area with a lot of rain or snow, you will need to make sure that your Velux windows are properly sealed to prevent leaks.
Let’s take a look at some of the different types of garden room roofs available:
1. EPDM Covering
What is EPDM roof covering?
EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber) is a type of synthetic rubber that is often used as a roofing material. Known for its durability and flexibility, it is mainly used on low-slope buildings such as warehouses, office buildings, and homes.
EPDM roofing is a popular choice for garden rooms because it is relatively inexpensive and easy to install. It also has a long lifespan and is resistant to UV rays, wind, and extreme temperatures.
2. Eco Slates
What is eco slate?
Eco Slate is a type of roofing material made from recycled plastic. It looks like natural slate but is lighter and more flexible, making it easier to install.
Eco slates are a great choice for garden roofs because they are environmentally friendly and easy to install.
Since the material is so light, they don’t need much energy to produce, which makes them a great choice for eco-conscious homeowners.
3. Metal Roofing
What is metal roofing?
Metal roofing is a type of roofing material that is made from steel, aluminum, or other metals. It is a popular choice for commercial and industrial buildings because it is durable and low maintenance.
Made famous in Scandinavia for its ability to withstand harsh weather conditions, metal roofing is becoming a popular choice for garden roofs.
Metal roofing is a great choice for garden rooms because it is durable and low maintenance. It is also eco-friendly and can help reflect heat, making it a good choice for warm climates.
4. Natural Slate
What is natural slate?
Natural slate is a type of roofing material that is made from natural stone. It is a popular choice for high-end homes and commercial buildings because it is durable and has a luxurious look.
I say high-end because it’s an expensive material. Not only that, but it’s also quite heavy, so you’ll need to make sure your garden room can support the weight.
5. Clay Tiles
What are clay tiles?
Clay tiles are a type of roofing material that is made from fired clay. They are a popular choice for homes and commercial buildings in warm climates because they are durable and have a unique look.
Used predominantly on pitched roofs, they’re not often seen on flat roofs. However, if you’re looking for a more rustic look for your garden room, clay tiles could be a perfect choice.
They’re a great choice for garden roofs because they are durable and have a unique look. They are also eco-friendly and can help reflect heat, making them a good choice for warm climates.
6. Asphalt Shingles
What are asphalt shingles?
Asphalt shingles are a type of roofing material that is made from asphalt and fiberglass. They are a popular choice for homes and commercial buildings because they are easy to install and have a variety of colours and styles.
One of the reasons why it is so popular is because it is one of the cheapest roofing materials on the market. However, it’s important to note that asphalt shingles have a shorter lifespan than other roofing materials.
7. Wooden Tiles (also referred to as shingles)
What are wooden tiles?
Wooden tiles (specifically cedar) are a type of roofing material that is made from wood and used as cladding. They date back to the 19th century and were once a popular choice for homes and commercial buildings because they are durable and have a unique look.
Wooden tiles are making a comeback in the 21st century as more homeowners are looking for eco-friendly roofing options.
Since it is a low-density wood, it means there is very little shrinkage or expansion. This makes it an excellent roofing material for areas with extreme temperature changes.
8. Solar Tiles
What are solar tiles?
Solar tiles are a relatively new type of tile championed by Tesla. They are made from tempered glass and have solar cells embedded in them.
Solar tiles are a great choice for garden roofs because they are environmentally friendly and can help reduce your energy bills.
They are also durable and have a sleek, modern look. However, solar tiles are more expensive than other roofing materials and can add a significant amount of weight to your roof.
What makes them attractive is the fact that they are just as strong, if not stronger than traditional tiles. Also, you are unable to see the solar cell, so it gives the tile a more sleek look.
Used mainly on contemporary house roofs, they are now finding their way into mainstream use for garden roofs too.
Related: Getting Solar Panel Quotes (EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW)
9.Insulated Roof Panels
What are insulated roof panels?
Insulated roof panels are a type of roofing material that is made from two layers of internal and external metal (normally colour coated steel) sheet with an insulation layer in between.
The most popular sheet thicknesses are 0.4mm to 1.0mm, which offer a wide range of strengths as needed. Aluminium or stainless steel may also be used to make the sheets.
Contractors generally don’t install many insulated panels on garden room roofs since they tend to be used for more larger structures.
10. Thatched Roofing
What is thatched roofing?
Thatched roofing is a type of roofing material that is made from straw, reeds, or grass.
There are three main types of thatched roofing: water reed. longstraw and combed wheat straw.
- Water reed is the most popular type of thatched roofing in the UK. It’s made from a type of reed that grows in marshes and wetlands.
- Longstraw (specifically grown for thatching) is a type of thatched roofing that is made from straw that is cut into long pieces. Combed wheat straw is a type of thatched roofing that is made from straw that has been combed to remove the chaff.
- Combed wheat straw is another popular type of thatched roofing. It’s made from a type of wheat that has been combed to remove the straw’s chaff.
Thatched roofing is a popular choice for garden roofs because it is environmentally friendly and has a unique look. However, thatched roofs require more maintenance than other types of roofing.
11. Artificial Grass Roof
What is an artificial grass roof?
An artificial grass roof is a type of roofing material that is made from synthetic turf. Designed to blend in with real grass, it is a popular choice for homeowners.
This may seem left of field (no pun intended), but an artificial grass roof is a viable option for garden roofs. They’re becoming really popular since they’re easy to install and low maintenance. They also have a really natural look, which can complement any garden design.
The only maintenance you need to carry out is to pressure wash it every now and then to remove any dirt or debris that has accumulated on the surface.
12. Living Roofs
What is a living roof?
A living roof, also known as a green roof, is a type of roofing material that is made from vegetation.
The vegetation is usually sedum, which is a type of succulent. Sedum is a popular choice because it is drought-resistant and can tolerate long periods of heat.
Your contractor would lay it on top of a waterproof barrier like an EPDM sheet. They would then add a soil layer and plant the sedum.
Living roofs are a great choice for garden roofs because they are environmentally friendly and can help insulate your home. However, living roofs require more maintenance than other types of roofing.
13. Fibreglass Roofing
What is fibreglass roofing?
Fibreglass roofing is a type of roofing material that is made from glass fibre. It’s one of the most popular types of roofing for garden roofs because it’s lightweight, strong, and durable.
It’s also easy to install and low maintenance. Fibreglass roofing is available in a variety of colours, so you can find one that matches your garden design.
The only maintenance you need to carry out is to clean it with soapy water every now and then to remove any dirt or debris that has accumulated on the surface.
14. Torch on bitumen Roofing
What is torch on bitumen roofing?
Torch On Bitumen roofing consists of two layers of modified bitumen that are melted and fused together by a torch, as the name implies.
With this type of roof, you get Ultraviolet light resistance and a waterproof barrier- both perfect for the Lower Mainland’s wet months.
It’s the sort of roofing you would use for Garden rooms that have a flat roof design. It’s a great choice for this type of roof because it’s durable, waterproof, and low maintenance. The only downside is that it’s not the most environmentally friendly option 🙁
15. PVC Roofing
What is PVC roofing?
PVC roofing is a type of synthetic roofing material that is made from polyvinyl chloride. PVC is a popular choice for garden roofs because it is lightweight, strong, and durable.
PVC is also easy to install and low maintenance. PVC roofing is available in a variety of colours, so you can find one that matches your garden design.
The fact that it has hot air welded seams also makes it one of the most waterproof roofing options available. The only maintenance you need to carry out is to clean it with soapy water every now and then.
It comes in corrugated sheets which makes it look a bit like metal roofing, but without the weight or price tag and it also comes in flat sheets.
FAQs
How much overhang should a garden roof have?
On the eaves, a garden roof should have a 50mm overhang and a 75mm overhang on the gable ends. This will aid in the protection of the roof from weather elements and rain coming in.
How much weight can a garden roof support?
Most garden roofs can support up to about 20 pounds per square foot, but you should check with the manufacturer or your contractor to be sure.
What is the best roofing material for a garden roof?
The best roofing material for a garden roof depends on your budget, the climate, and the design of your home. If you live in an area with a lot of rain, you’ll want a roof that is waterproof and can withstand long periods of moisture. For a more budget-friendly option, fibreglass or PVC are good choices. If you have a bit more to spend, metal roofing or slate would be a good option.
How do I maintain my garden roof?
The best way to maintain your garden roof is to regularly clean it with soapy water to remove any dirt or debris that has accumulated on the surface. You should also check the gutters and downspouts to make sure they are clear of leaves and other debris.
What is the average lifespan of a garden roof?
The average lifespan of a garden roof is 20-30 years. However, with proper maintenance, your garden roof could last much longer.
If I’m good at DIY, can I install my own garden roof?
If you’re experienced in roofing and have the proper tools and safety equipment, you may be able to install your own garden roof. However, we recommend hiring a professional contractor to ensure that the job is done correctly.
What is a warm roof?
A warm roof is a type of garden roof that has an insulation layer between the roof deck and the waterproofing layer. This insulation helps to keep the inside of your garden room warm during the winter months.
What is a cold roof?
A cold roof is a type of garden roof that does not have an insulation layer. This type of roof is typically found in warmer climates where extra insulation is not needed.
In Summary
There you have it! The top 15 best garden room roof ideas for 2022. I hope you found this article helpful and that you now have a better idea of what type of roofing material would be best for your garden room.
If you have any questions, please feel free to leave them in the comments section below. I will be more than happy to help you out.
References:
Main Image: Oakwood Garden Rooms
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