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Shed / Skillion Roof

Single sloping surface — simple and modern

A shed roof (also called a skillion roof) is the simplest roof type: one single sloping surface with no ridge or multiple sides. Often used for extensions, outbuildings, and modern designs. It's basically like one half of a pitched roof.

Common Damage

1. Tile or Covering Damage

  • Cracked, slipped, or missing tiles (if tiled)
  • Or splits in membrane (if flat-flow slope)
  • Leads to leaks quickly due to direct water flow

2. Drainage Problems

  • Water all flows to one edge
  • Can overload gutters or cause pooling

3. Ponding Water (Low Slope)

  • If slope is too shallow, water may sit on the surface
  • Common with felt or rubber roofs

4. Flashing Failure

  • Weak points where the roof meets walls or another roof
  • Water ingress is common here

5. Edge (Eaves) Damage

  • The lower edge takes all the water runoff
  • Can suffer wear, rot, or overflow

6. Wind Uplift

  • Wind can get under the single slope
  • May lift tiles or membranes

7. Timber Rot

  • Caused by leaks or poor drainage
  • Affects rafters and decking

Repairs

minor Repairs

  • Replace damaged tiles or patch membrane
  • Clear gutters and drainage
  • Reseal flashing

moderate Repairs

  • Replace sections of roofing material
  • Improve drainage (larger gutters, better slope)
  • Repair edge detailing and flashing

major Repairs

  • Replace large areas of covering
  • Fix sagging structure
  • Replace damaged rafters or decking

New Installation

When Replacement Is Needed

  • Persistent leaks
  • Ageing materials (10–30+ years depending on type)
  • Poor drainage design
  • Structural sagging

Installation Steps

  1. Remove Old Roof

    • Strip tiles or membrane
    • Expose structure
  2. Inspect Structure

    • Check rafters and decking
    • Replace any rotten timber
  3. Set the Slope

    • Ensure correct angle for drainage
    • Adjust firrings if needed
  4. Add Layers

    • Breathable membrane or waterproof layer
    • Battens (for tiles) or deck (for flat systems)
    • Insulation (optional but recommended)
  5. Install Roof Covering

    • Tiles/slate (steeper pitch)
    • Felt, EPDM, or fibreglass (low slope)
  6. Finish Details

    • Flashing where roof meets wall
    • Gutters and drainage system
    • Edge trims installed

Lifespan

Tiles / Slate
30–50 years
Membrane (felt/EPDM/GRP)
10–30 years
Structure
100 years if maintained

Warning Signs

  • Leaks or damp patches
  • Overflowing or blocked gutter
  • Cracks or splits in surface
  • Sagging roof line
  • Water pooling on surface

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