How to Build a Shed with Roof Overhangs?

How to make an overhang roof shed that is functional yet at the same time decorative is the question asked by many. Most DIY persons work hard in finding the exact balance between design and practicability, ending up either with a weather-damaged shed or an incompletely finished one.

But don't worry, since this article is there to walk you through every step of the process from what a roof overhang is, to how you support and build one, you find everything in your effort to make a strong, nice-looking shed.

What is a Roof Overhang?

A shed roof overhang is the part of the roof that extends beyond the walls of a structure, providing shade, protection, and an aesthetic touch. It's a key feature in shed designs, with the purpose of safeguarding the building from rain, snow, and excessive sunlight.

Shed verhangs can vary in size depending on style and function, from just a few inches to several feet. These add more practical benefits to an overhang in a roof, which gives a shed a polished, finished look one is looking for to make it blend in with his property.

What are Benefits of a Roof Overhang?

An overhang in a roof isn't just for aesthetics; it's useful, too. Here are some major benefits:

2.1 Protection from the Elements

A roof overhang protects your shed from rain, snow, and water damage by not allowing them to drip down the walls. This prevents rotting among other damages. It directs melting snow away from the shed when in snowy areas to add to longevity.

2.2 Shade and Cooling

An overhang has the added advantage of providing your shed with shade, to keep it cooler during sunny weather. This can be very helpful if you use the shed as a workplace or store items inside the shed that generally do not go well at high temperatures.

Besides making it more comfortable, the shed would also become friendlier for use during the summer months.

In short, a very simple way to make your shed stronger, nicer, and more practical is to add a roof overhang to it.

2.3 Increased Curb Appeal

The roof overhang makes the sheds look more presentable. Overhangs add style and depth to what would otherwise be a plain box of a shed, allowing it to fit in with the general look of your yard. Whether you prefer modern designs or a cozy, rustic style, an overhang can make your shed stand out.

How to Build and Support Roof Overhangs?

It may be a little tricky to make a roof overhang, but if you divide the process into simple steps, everything becomes much easier.

Here's how you can do that:

Planning and Preparation

Start by designing your shed to determine how far over the overhang would go and which needs to fit your needs and local building codes. Gather all materials, including framing lumber, plywood, roofing material, soffit, and other necessary tools. Proper measurements and an exact plan will be one of the ways to keep you from making mistakes.

Prepare the Shed Foundation and Walls

Before working on the roof, make sure the foundation and walls of the shed are solid and level, and the walls are also strong enough to support not only the weight of the roof but also the overhang. Check everything for stability.

Building Roof Overhang Supports

The typical roof overhang must have strong supports that can hold it in place. The roof rafters should be extended, or lookouts (horizontal supports) added, to create the overhang. Attach these well to the shed frame for the strength and durability of the structure.

Frame the Roof and Attach Plywood Sheathing

Frame the roof using the rafters. Attach the plywood sheathing on top. The plywood should form the base of the roof, so it ought to be cut and affixed properly.

Add Roof Underlayment and Roofing Material

Provide a waterproofing roof underlayment to protect against moisture. Next comes the roofing, such as shingles or sheets of metal, which the specific manufacturer shall prescribe.

Install Soffit and Drip Edge

Attach the soffit under the overhang to close the underside, giving it a finished look and preventing pests from entering. Install a drip edge along the roof edges to guide water away from the shed walls.

Install Gutters (Optional)

Add gutters along the edges of the overhang if you want extra protection from water. That way, rainwater would be routed away from the shed and keep the area of that shed dry.

Finish and Inspect

Once the roof is complete, inspect your work. Look for loose materials, gaps, or unfinished areas; make sure everything is secure and looks good.

These steps will guide you in constructing a well-built overhang roof to add style to the overall outlook of your shed.

What are Factors That Influence Roof Overhang?

There are a few things to consider when choosing a roof overhang. These will help you decide on the right roof overhang length and style.

4.1 Style of the Roof

The type of roof you have impacts overhang design, from the way a gable roof typically has a side overhang while a flat one may only have one at all. It should be designed to follow the appearance of your shed and its intended use.

4.2 Weather Conditions

The weather in your area is important. In rainy or snowy places, bigger overhangs help protect the shed walls. In hot areas, they provide more shade to keep the shed cool.

4.3 Functionality

Think about how you will be using the shed. If you are going to work near the door or if you need to store something outside, a larger overhang can protect you and your stuff from the weather. In the case of small sheds, a small overhang may be good enough.

4.4 Building Codes

Before starting, check your building codes. Some areas control how far a roof can overhang and/or how close a shed can be to a neighbor's property. Following rules like these will keep a shed safe and legal in the eyes of the area.

With these factors, you can design a practical and aesthetic roof overhang.

What You Should Consider When Building a Roof Overhang?

Some basic key considerations when designing a roof overhang are the following:

5.1 Balance Between Function and Design

Your overhang should be aesthetically pleasing but functional. Consider what type of protection you will want to have from rain, sun, or snow. The larger the overhang, the greater protection it gives, but sometimes it may look disproportionate with a small shed. Look for a balance that works with the size and style of your shed.

5.2 Space and Clearance

Allow enough room for overhang, but in a way that doesn't obstruct pathways, doors, or windows. If your shed is situated close to a fence or a building, do not allow the overhang to protrude too much. Proper spacing keeps all things safe and accessible.

By keeping it simple, there's an overhang that will look great and work well.

Common Roof Overhang Measurements

The size of the roof overhang will depend on the size of your shed. Here is a somewhat simplified guide:

6.1 Small Sheds

With smaller sheds, one would mostly use 6-12 inches for the overhang. It protects well enough against rainfall and snow, with little or no sign of it being overly big for your shed. This makes an overhang very small when your shed is to sit at a spot near other tight spaces.

Patiowell Fit-it 4x8 Plastic Shed Pro

Patiowell Fit-it 4x6 Plastic Shed Pro

Patiowell Fit-it 4x4 Plastic Shed Pro

Patiowell 5x4 Plastic Shed Pro

Patiowell Kick-it 8x6 Plastic Shed Pro

6.2 Large Sheds

A larger overhang is what will work for larger sheds, 12 to 24 inches being a good width. It offers better protection for the walls and gives the shed a balanced, finished look. A larger overhang is also helpful in providing shade and keeping the shed cooler, especially during hot weather.

Patiowell Kick-it 8x12 Plastic Shed Pro

Patiowell Kick-it 8x10 Plastic Shed Pro

Patiowell Kick-it 8x8 Plastic Shed Pro

The right overhang size will keep your shed protected and looking great in your yard.

Conclusion

Building a shed with overhang is one of the smartest things you can do to your property: it protects from weather conditions, makes it look better, and can even keep it cooler. With a little insight into its benefits and some planning, you can build an overhang that works well with your shed. No matter how big or small it may be, choosing an appropriate size and design is paramount. With these tips, you will have a strong, great-looking shed lasting you.