How to Insulate a Shed Roof

You can insulate your shed roof to enhance more energy savings, but make sure that you insulate the roof properly. Keep in mind also that the longest-lasting shed roofs are usually made of such metals as aluminum, steel, or copper. Such roofs lack maintenance as well. It does not matter if your shed roof is old or new, there are several insulation techniques you can use.

Step 1 - Install and Nail the Plywood

Place the plywood onto the roof of your shed in such a way that it acts as sheathing for the roof’s structure. Make sure you place the plywood at a right angle to the joists of the roof. You can use the oriental-strand board (OSB) instead of plywood. Fix the plywood or oriental-strand board in place with roofing nails that are either galvanized or made of stainless steel.

Step 2 - Place the Building Paper and Foam Insulation

Now cover the sheathing with sheets of building paper so it will help protect the shed roof from leaks and moisture. Make sure the building paper overlaps one another by approximately six inches and attach them securely together with roofing nails. If you want, you can use staples instead of roofing nails. Now cover all the roof of your shed with foam insulation, but do not overlap.

Use duct tape to cover the edges of the foam insulation so that you will greater protection against moisture. Remember the duct tape will also prevent leaks and enhance the efficiency of the foam insulation. Now it is time to fix the roofing panels to cover the insulation. In order to place the panels properly, read carefully and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Step 3 - Use Fiberglass Batts

In case the roof is new, you may find the plywood sheathing is already installed and there are joists and beams holding it in place. Fill any holes or gaps that you find with fiberglass batts, but remember not to press it or insert it too tightly. Keep in mind that joists are sometimes attached to the roof very closely, therefore you will find it a bit difficult to install the foam insulation.

Step 4 - Install Foam Insulation Between Joists

If the joists are situated a bit apart from one another, then it may be a bit easier for you to install the foam insulation. Use a utility knife to cut the foam insulation and fix it securely into place with adhesive or duct tape. In this case, it is better not to use screws or nails because they may create holes in your shed roof and cause a leakage problem.

Step 5 - Spray Foam Insulation

If you do not have access to the roof of your shed and you would like to insulate it, you need to cut a hole in it and buy a foam insulation kit from a home improvement store. This kit includes the liquid foam insulation and a sprayer as well. Read the manufacturer’s instructions on the kit carefully and cut the hole in the roof correctly the first time.