Apex Sheds

How We Help You Find the Right Apex Shed

At WhatShed, our mission is to guide you towards the best Apex Shed on the market, ensuring you get the ideal product at the best price from the most reliable retailer. With our detailed reviews and the most extensive database of Apex Sheds available online, we make your search for the perfect shed quick, easy, and efficient. By collaborating with top UK garden building experts, we have developed smart algorithms to categorise, score, and rank nearly every Apex Shed for sale. Our system sorts the results automatically, placing the highest-rated products from the best retailers at the top of each page. Additionally, we provide full price comparisons on all the Apex Sheds we showcase, ensuring you find the right product at the right price from the best source. So whether you’re looking for an apex plastic shed, an apex metal shed, or some other kind of apex shed, we’ve got you covered. We do the heavy lifting to save you time and money.

What Makes a Good Apex Shed?

The quality and durability of an Apex Shed largely depend on its roof, which is the first line of defence against the elements. A well-constructed roof will protect your shed from rain, snow, and wind, significantly extending its lifespan. When evaluating an apex shed, key factors such as the roof covering, roof materials, and structural components like roof bearers and boarding thickness must be considered. Below is a detailed guide to help you choose the right shed with a solid, long-lasting roof.

Key Elements to Look for in an Apex Shed Roof:

1. Roof Covering (Felt, Shingles, EPDM Rubber, Corrugated Metal)

The roof covering is the outermost layer that protects the shed from weather conditions. Choosing the right material depends on your budget, the climate, and the shed’s intended use. Here are the most common options:

a. Roof Felt: A bitumen-based material, roof felt is one of the most affordable coverings for apex sheds. It’s easy to install but has a limited lifespan of 5-10 years and is susceptible to tearing in high winds.
Best for entry-level sheds or sheds in areas with mild weather.

b. Shingles: Shingles offer more durability and aesthetic appeal compared to felt, typically lasting 10-20 years. They require stronger roof structures but are ideal for long-term sheds or garden offices.
Best for sheds where durability and appearance matter.

c. EPDM Rubber: EPDM is a high-performance rubber membrane that can last up to 50 years with minimal maintenance, offering excellent waterproofing. It has a higher initial cost but is ideal for premium sheds requiring superior weather protection.
Best for premium sheds or garden offices needing long-term durability.

d. Corrugated Metal: Galvanised steel or aluminium sheets provide extreme durability and low maintenance. They’re fire-resistant but prone to condensation, so good ventilation is essential.
Best for sheds in harsh climates or fire-risk areas.

2. Roof Material (Roof Decking or Boards)

The roof decking provides the structural foundation of the roof. The material type and thickness impact the shed’s durability, load-bearing capacity, and insulation.

a. Tongue-and-Groove (T&G) Boarding: T&G boards lock together, providing strength and stability, making them ideal for sheds with heavy roof coverings like shingles or EPDM.
Best for premium sheds or garden buildings where longevity is a priority.

b. OSB (Oriented Strand Board): OSB is a budget-friendly option for roof decking, though it’s less durable and more prone to moisture absorption than T&G or plywood.
Best for budget sheds with light coverings in mild climates.

c. Plywood: Plywood is more durable and moisture-resistant than OSB, making it a better choice for sheds requiring heavier coverings or strength.
Best for long-term sheds, workshops, or garden offices.

Optimal Thickness for Roof Boarding:

– Minimum 12mm for OSB or plywood with lightweight coverings like felt.
– 18mm or more for T&G or plywood when using shingles or metal.

3. Roof Bearers (Rafters)

Roof bearers provide structural support for the roof. Their thickness and spacing are crucial for supporting the load of roofing materials and resisting external forces like snow or wind.
– Rafters should be at least 2×4 inches in thickness, with closer spacing recommended for heavier roofs like shingles or metal.

Other Key Considerations:

1. Roof Pitch: A steeper roof pitch, typically 20-30 degrees, helps shed water and snow more effectively, which is especially important in areas with heavy rainfall or snowfall.

2. Ventilation: Proper ventilation helps prevent condensation under metal or EPDM roofs. Ensure your shed includes ventilation grilles or ridge vents to allow airflow and maintain a dry interior.

Why Your Choice Matters:

A high-quality Apex Shed is a long-term investment in your outdoor space, and selecting the right roof components is essential to its durability and functionality. Consider the roof covering that best fits your budget and intended use: felt for affordability, shingles for aesthetics and durability, EPDM for long-term waterproofing, or metal for extreme durability. Ensure that the roof materials and bearers are sturdy enough to support your chosen covering, and pay attention to the roof pitch and ventilation to protect against condensation and weather damage. By focusing on these key features, you can select the best Apex Shed for your needs, ensuring it remains a practical and attractive part of your garden for years to come.