Pent or Apex: Which Roof Is Right For Your Garden Shed?

If you’re thinking of purchasing a timber garden shed, one of the biggest decisions is choosing which style of roof you would like. When deciding between an apex or a pent roof, there are many important factors that you need to consider to make sure that the finished product is a building that you’re going to love and use for years to come.

To help you decide, we’ve put together the main differences and all the things you might want to think about when choosing which roof is right for your garden shed.

What is the difference between an apex and pent roof?

The main difference between the two roofing options is that an apex roof has two slopes that meet in the middle of a roof at its highest point. The sloped edges on each side make it very easy for water to run straight off, protecting the roof from any water damage.

A pent roof has a single slope that creates an incline, with its highest point being the full length of one side.

Apex vs pent shed roofs: which is better for your needs?

There are a few things to consider when deciding between the two. How you are going to use your shed, where it will sit in your garden and the overall look you prefer can all help you choose the right roof shape.

Which shed roof gives you more headroom?

When deciding whether you need an apex or a pent roof for your garden building, one of the main things to consider is what are you going to use your garden shed for? Are you using it solely for storage purposes, or are you after a space where you can comfortably work on DIY or gardening projects?

As an apex roof helps to make a building taller, it is ideal for turning your shed into a workshop. It provides more headroom in the centre so you will have plenty of room to walk around comfortably, making it particularly helpful for taller people.

A pent roof can be well suited for storage, but that doesn't mean it can't make a practical workshop too. Its highest point runs along one side of the building, so it is worth thinking about the position of workbenches, shelving and other features when deciding on your layout.

Where is the best place for an apex or pent roof shed?

Another thing to consider is the space you have available to put your shed.

A pent roof will make a garden building much more compact and can be easily placed to sit under trees or against a fence or a wall, which will be ideal if you have a smaller garden.

An apex roof is designed to add height to a building, so you won’t be able to tuck it away as easily. If you have the space to have your garden shed stand proud in the middle of your garden, an apex roof could look better.

How does shed roof shape affect overall height?

The height of your shed is another important consideration when choosing between an apex and pent roof, particularly if you're planning to position your building close to a boundary.

If you are placing your building less than 2.0m away from the boundary of your property, your shed can have a maximum overall height of no more than 2.5m from existing ground level to not need planning permission.

Our pent roof sheds are all under 2.5m in height so they’re suitable if you need to reduce the height of your shed to follow planning regulations. If you’re unsure about whether you need planning permission and would like more information, please read our planning permission article.

Do you prefer a traditional or modern shed roof?

Of course, the last big question is, which style do you prefer? Do you prefer a traditional or a more modern look?

An apex roof is the classic look for a garden shed while the sleek, sharp lines of a pent roof offer a more modern, 21st Century style.

What are the advantages of an apex roof shed?

An apex roof is a great choice if you prefer the classic look of a garden shed. As the two slopes meet at the highest point in the middle, it also provides more headroom through the centre of the building.

The sloped edges make it easy for water to run straight off, while the extra height can be useful if you're planning to spend time working on DIY, gardening projects or hobbies inside your shed.

An apex roof could therefore be the better choice if you want your shed to stand proud in the garden, prefer a more traditional style or would benefit from additional headroom.

What are the advantages of a pent roof shed?

With its single slope and sleek, sharp lines, a pent roof offers a more modern look. Its lower profile can also make it easier to tuck a garden shed away under trees or position it against a fence or wall.

Pent roofs are particularly useful where you need to keep the overall height of the building down, and the single slope means water is directed towards one side of the shed.

For smaller gardens or anyone looking for a more contemporary garden building, a pent roof can be a very practical choice.

Should I choose an apex or pent roof shed?

Ultimately, your choice between an apex and pent roof will depend on your style, space and how you plan to use your garden shed.

If you like a traditional garden shed and want plenty of headroom in the centre, you may prefer an apex roof. If you're looking for something with a lower profile that can be tucked more discreetly into your garden, or you prefer a modern, 21st Century style, a pent roof could be right for you.

In our Garden Shed collection, we have different ranges available with pent and apex roof options. As well as choosing what roof you would like, you can customise everything from the number of windows and doors to the type of cladding and colour you would like it painted.

Whatever your style, space or specification, we work with you to create that workshop you’ve been dreaming of or that aesthetically pleasing yet practical storage solution you’ve been wanting for a while. And better still, delivery and installation are included anywhere on mainland UK.

To find out more about how we can tailor-make a garden shed to fulfil all of your requirements, please give us a call on 01760 444229 or visit us at one of our UK show sites.