If a barn roof replacement is on the cards, it’s often winter that makes the need all too obvious. The wind and rain of recent months may have taken their toll, and spotting a leak or damage at this time of year is no surprise.
While hiring a professional is the easiest option, it can also be the most expensive. But if you have some basic DIY skills, you might be able to save money by tackling the job yourself. Here’s what you need to know to get started.
What You Need to Replace an Outbuilding Roof
What You’ll Need
For any outbuilding or barn roof installation, you’ll need some essential equipment, including a tall ladder, a roof ladder, your chosen roofing material and the recommended fixings as well as flashings for any joints, seams or valleys.
You will also need a variety of hand tools to successfully complete the job, including an impact driver, hand seamer, pry bar, shears, tin snips, a tape measure, and a hammer.
Depending on your choice of roofing, you may need additional specialist tools. Check manufacturer's installation guides to determine if any specific tools are recommended for your installation.
What You Need to Do
1. Apply for Building Notice
If you’re replacing more than 25% of your barn roof, you may need to apply for building notice. This should be submitted at least 48 hours before starting any work. Regulations can vary by region, so check the specific requirements in your area to ensure compliance.
2. Remove the Old Roof
Unless the roof has blown off entirely (a real possibility given recent weather!), you’ll need to remove the existing covering. Removing the old roof allows you to:
- Inspect for any structural damage
- Make necessary repairs
- Add insulation or improve the weatherproofing
- Even if a full replacement isn’t required, it’s often worth stripping the old roof to check for hidden issues.
3. Inspect and Prepare the Roof Surface
Before installing your new roof, inspect the surface to ensure it’s structurally sound. The work area should be clean, dry, and free from dirt or contaminants that could impact installation.
4. Consider Adding Insulation
Not all barns require insulation, but adding it can help maintain a more consistent temperature inside. Insulation can keep the barn warmer in winter and cooler in summer, helping to prevent issues like mould.
You can purchase insulation separately or opt for insulated roofing panels to streamline the process. Insulated panels or 'sandwich panels' are comprised of a roof sheet, insulation and a white liner that forms the ceiling once installed.
5. Install Your Roof Panels
There are various roofing panels available, depending on your needs. Profile steel sheets are a popular choice for barns due to their durability and cost-effectiveness. Your choice will depend on the size and intended use of the barn.
6. Finish with Flashings
Flashings are essential for protecting vulnerable areas of the roof, such as joints and where the roof meets vertical surfaces. Their primary function is to direct water away from these high-risk areas, preventing leaks and extending the roof’s lifespan.
The type of flashings you need will depend on your original roofing material. Use the type of flashing recommended by the roof material manufacturer. Need a specific shape or something for an unconventionally shaped ridge? These can be fabricated to specified dimensions by reputable suppliers such as Southern Sheeting.
Final Tips
Replacing a barn roof is a relatively straightforward process if you have the right tools, materials and abilities. Make sure you’ve secured any necessary permits before starting and have everything prepared to avoid delays.
If you need help choosing the right roofing for your barn, our friendly team is always happy to assist. Contact us via email or give us a call on 01342 590122.
