![Shed Roof Designs & Types: Which is Better Apex or Pent? [UPDATED]](https://www.shedstore.co.uk/media/magefan_blog/Shed_Roof_Designs_Types_main-image-600x400.webp)
Exploring shed roof designs opens a realm of possibilities that extend beyond mere functional considerations. The choice between apex shed roof and a pent shed roof designs is not just about sheltering your outdoor areas; it is about creating a statement that blends aesthetics and utility purposes. With diverse options to customise and infuse your shed with personality, this guide explores the distinct features of these roof styles, offering insights into their benefits and how they harmonise with your garden's layout and your personal style preferences.
Editor’s Note [26.09.23]: Our guide about apex and pent sheds was originally published on January 5, 2017. Today’s update includes choosing the right shed roof designs, customising with unique shed types, comparing modern vs traditional styles, exploring both pent and apex sheds including features and benefits, and a features comparison of pent vs apex.
Choosing the right shed roof designs
When buying garden sheds, the roof design plays a pivotal role in shaping both the visual appeal and functional aspects of the garden building. The choice between apex and pent for roofing has far-reaching implications for your outdoor space. Not only does it influence the shed's aesthetics, but it also determines factors like interior space, water drainage, and overall utility value. Exploring the various roof covering options available is essential to finding the perfect fit that fits neatly with your garden's layout, your personal preferences, and the intended purpose of the shed.
Customising your garden shed with unique shed roof types
Unleash your creativity and infuse your garden shed with a touch of individuality by exploring various unique shed roof types. By investigating various roof designs, you can seize the opportunity to personalise your outdoor structure in ways that reflect your style and preferences.
These distinct roofing options not only add character to your garden shed but also play a pivotal role in enhancing the overall visual appeal of your outdoor space. Through innovative roof designs, you have the chance to transform your garden shed into a bespoke focal point that seamlessly blends with your landscape.
Traditional vs. modern shed roof style options
The choice between traditional and modern shed roof styles can significantly influence the overall look and feel of your outdoor living space. Traditional styles, are often characterised by their classic gable or apex design, exude a timeless charm that aligns well with rustic or cottage garden themes. On the other hand, modern styles, featuring sleek and minimalist lines, cater to contemporary aesthetics, making them a perfect fit for urban gardens or spaces with a modern flair.
Exploring these roof styles unveils the potential to seamlessly blend architectural characteristics with your chosen garden theme. Whether you opt for the nostalgic allure of a traditional gable roof or the clean lines of a modern shed roof, your garden shed can harmonise with your desired design aesthetics in an engaging and visually appealing manner.
Exploring pent sheds
When it comes to pent shed roof design, its single-sloped structure offers distinctive characteristics that cater to specific needs. Discover the specifics that set pent roofs apart and explore the main benefits they provide for various garden scenarios.
Seven specific pent shed features
Explore the unique features of a pent shed roof design that make it a practical choice:
- Contemporary aesthetics - the modern and sleek design of a pent roof complements various garden styles
- Easy installation - the simple roof structure simplifies assembly and reduces construction complexity
- Efficient water drainage - the slope ensures effective water runoff, preventing pooling on the roof
- Minimal maintenance - the straightforward design reduces maintenance efforts and costs
- Single-sloped roof - pent roofs feature a single slope, making them ideal for installations against walls or fences
- Space maximisation - the high side of the roof offers ample headroom, while the lower side complements limited garden space
- Storage flexibility - pent roofs allow for easy installation of shelves, racks, and storage systems along the high wall
The main benefits of pent roofing
Discover the advantages that make pent shed roofs a viable option for your garden shed:
- Aesthetic appeal - the modern and minimalist design of a pent roof adds a contemporary touch to your garden
- Customisable layout - the interior layout is easily customised to suit your storage needs and preferences
- Ease of installation - the straightforward design of pent roofs simplifies the assembly process, saving time and effort
- Natural light enhancement - the high side of the roof allows ample sunlight into the shed, promoting a well-lit interior
- Reduced material usage - the single-sloped structure requires fewer materials, making it a cost-effective choice
- Space utilisation - pent roofs maximise available garden space, ideal for tight corners or restricted areas
- Wall integration - pent roofs fit seamlessly against existing walls, maximising interior space without compromising aesthetics
- Water runoff control - the slope efficiently directs rainwater away from the shed, reducing water-related issues
An overview of apex sheds
Apex shed roof design is characterised by its iconic dual-sloped structure, offering both practicality and visual appeal. Let us explore the specifics of apex roofs and explore the primary benefits they bring to your garden shed.
Seven specific apex features
Discover the key features of an apex shed roof design:
- Ample interior height - the high central peak provides increased headroom, allowing easy movement inside the shed
- Dual-sloped roof - the classic apex design features two slopes meeting at a central peak for efficient water drainage
- Enhanced ventilation - the peak allows hot air to rise, promoting better airflow and ventilation within the shed
- Storage versatility - the high central space accommodates taller items, maximising storage capacity
- Timeless aesthetics - apex roofs have a traditional look that blends well with various garden styles
- Weather protection - the dual-sloped structure facilitates effective rainwater runoff, preventing leaks and water damage
- Wide door access - the apex design enables large door openings, facilitating the movement of bulkier items
The main benefits of apex roofing
Discover the advantages that apex shed roofs bring to your garden space:
- Aesthetic variety - apex roofs can be customised with various roofing materials, colours, and finishes to suit your garden's theme
- Ample ventilation - the dual-sloped design promotes air circulation, preventing humidity buildup and mould growth
- Durable construction - the roof slope aids in water runoff, reducing the risk of water damage and rot
- Efficient water drainage - the dual-sloped structure ensures effective rainwater runoff, minimising leaks, and water-related issues
- Flexible interior layout - the high central space allows for versatile shelving and storage options
- Increased interior height - the central peak offers generous headroom for convenient storage and movement
- Roof storage potential - the central peak can be used for additional overhead storage, maximising storage space utilisation
- Traditional charm - the timeless look of an apex roof adds a classic touch to your garden while blending with the environment
Which is better an apex or pent shed?
When selecting a shed, one of the factors you will need to consider is whether you would like an apex roof or a pent roof. Or have you considered a reverse apex roof? We take you through what you need to think about when it comes to shed roof design.
To help you make an informed choice, we have prepared a comprehensive comparison of these two popular options. Explore our features table below to explore the pros and cons of apex and pent shed style roofs, considering factors like your garden layout, intended use, and personal style preferences.
Features comparison: apex vs. pent shed roofs
Explore the detailed features comparison of apex and pent shed roofs to gain insights into their unique attributes. This comprehensive table highlights the key characteristics of each roof type, aiding you in selecting the perfect shed design for your specific requirements and preferences:
|
# |
Feature |
Apex |
Pent |
|
1 |
Budget expectations |
Costlier due to design complexity |
Generally, a more cost-effective option |
|
2 |
Compatibility with lean to and other structures |
Easily integrated with lean to additions |
Adaptable design for lean to roof structures |
|
3 |
Construction complexity |
Dual-sloped design |
Simplicity of a single slope |
|
4 |
Customisation options |
Creative design and add-ons |
Functional simplicity for utility |
|
5 |
Design aesthetics |
Classic gable roof look |
Modern single-sloped style |
|
6 |
Ease of assembly |
Various design complications |
Quick and straightforward installation |
|
7 |
Garden aesthetics |
Traditional cottage appeal |
Contemporary and minimalist look |
|
8 |
Garden layout suitability |
Fits well in spacious gardens |
Ideal for smaller and narrow spaces |
|
9 |
Garden placement flexibility |
Suitable for various placements |
Easily incorporates into the garden layout |
|
10 |
Ideal for garden themes |
Complements various garden styles |
Fits well with modern and clean designs |
|
11 |
Interior space |
Spacious headroom |
Efficient use of vertical space |
|
12 |
Long-term durability |
Resilient against external elements |
Reliable performance over many years |
|
13 |
Practicality and functionality |
Practical storage and workspace |
Efficient utility for specific purposes |
|
14 |
Rainwater collection |
Attic space for water tanks |
Suitable for rain barrel setup |
|
15 |
Roof-mounted features |
Accommodates skylights and roof windows |
Perfect for solar panel installation |
|
16 |
Space utilisation |
Attic or loft storage |
Practical use of interior space |
|
17 |
Ventilation and air circulation |
Enhanced airflow |
Natural ventilation and air circulation |
|
18 |
Versatility |
Suitable for various roof materials |
Compatible with different materials |
|
19 |
Water drainage |
Sloped roof design for rainwater dispersal |
Effective water drainage |
|
20 |
Weather resistance |
Solid performance in different climates |
Robust design against the elements |
(Click on images for further product details)
What are you storing?
If you are looking at tall items, apex sheds offer their maximum height in the centre run of the shed. Also, an apex has even eaves so you can store all but the tallest items around the sides of the shed.
A pent shed is higher at the front than at the back, so if you are happy storing all your tall items near the front, you will be fine. Measure your tallest ladder and compare it to the measurements of the pent sheds you look at. Of course, you can always use roof space to store long items too.
Will you be working inside the shed?
One of the best sheds for workshops and hobby sheds is the reverse apex. This design offers more space for benching due to the location of the door on the side of the shed, rather than the gable. The central height of the eaves provides space to manoeuvre comfortably as you work.
If you are a keen grow your own gardener, let's throw the idea of a potting shed into the mix. The key design attraction is not the roof but the expanse of glass that keeps the environment warm while the shed-like rear provides storage as well as extra insulation.
Rainwater
Your apex shed will prove to be extremely watertight as both sloping eaves make it very easy for water to run straight off. Of course, the sloping roof of a pent shed can also get rid of water quickly but are two slopes better than one? As long as you check your shed each season, repairing felt and sealing gaps, either one will resist water damage. Avoid buying a shed with a flat roof as this will tend to accumulate water patches in certain areas.
If you want to make your shed roof impenetrable, consider a SkyGuard roof. This EDM membrane won't need replacing for 20-50 years and, as one piece, won't create gaps or allow water through.
Location
For gardens with restricted areas, the pent shed can easily be tucked under trees or compactly alongside a fence or wall. The apex will happily stand proud anywhere in the garden.
Appearance
Personal taste is, well, personal. You need to like the look of your shed. Apex sheds are often known by many as the “classic” or “traditional” style shed to have, whereas pent sheds can be seen as contemporary due to their sleek lines. Either type of roof can have an optional roof overhang. However, the beauty of a shed is in the eye of the beholder (or shed owner).
Which is best for you?
Deciding which is better apex or pent shed is not a matter of one style being definitively better than the other. Both designs are popular shed roof styles and come with unique advantages that cater to specific needs, either can have a steep slope if that is your preference. Consider factors such as your available budget, garden layout, decorative preferences, and intended shed usage when making your choice. Whether you lean towards the classic charm of an apex roof or the modern practicality of a pent roof, both options offer valuable benefits that can enhance your outdoor space in various ways.
If you want to learn more about pent and apex sheds take a look at our useful videos below.
In Closing
When selecting the ideal roof design for your garden shed, the choice between apex and pent roofing holds significant importance. This decision not only influences the shed's visual appeal but also affects factors like interior space, water drainage, and overall functionality.
Tailoring your shed with unique roof designs provides an avenue for personalisation, allowing you to infuse your outdoor space with individuality. Traditional and modern roof styles each offer distinct characteristics, harmonising with various garden themes. Apex roofs boast classic charm, while pent roofs offer contemporary simplicity.
Consider your garden's layout and your intended usage to make an informed choice. Ultimately, both designs offer valuable advantages that improve your outdoor space. Explore shed design ideas and find the best garden shed designs to complement your landscape and lifestyle.
Support with our expertise
Contact Shedstore for advice about the best shed roof designs and shed roof types including various styles such as apex and pent. We can advise on which is better apex or pent shed to meet your needs. We stock most roof styles on the market. Contact us in these ways:
- Calls – call us at 0333 003 0518
- Emails - fill out our contact form for an email reply
- Text chat - engage in live chat via our app