Make a green roof on a shed

Entice more wildlife into your garden with our step-by-step guide on how to make a green roof on your garden shed

How to make a green roof @Jake Graham
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You Will Need

  • Thick, weather-treated timber, 12–15cm in width (for frame)
  • Small wood blocks (two-by-four cut-offs work well)
  • Water-impermeable sheeting
  • Weed matting
  • Exterior wood screws
  • Tacks
  • Saw
  • Drill
  • Hammer
  • Pollinator-friendly plants
  • Gravel
  • Woodchip or compost

Step 1

Lay the water-impermeable sheeting over the roof, cutting it to size with a slight overhang. Fasten to the side of the shed using a hammer and tacks.

How to make a green roof on your garden shed

Step 2

Saw four lengths of timber to match the dimensions of your roof. Screw them to the sides of the shed. Drill drainage holes (2cm) at the lower end.

How to make a green roof on your garden shed

Step 3

Put a small block of wood in each corner, screwing through the frame to secure them. This adds strength to the structure.

How to make a green roof on your garden shed

Step 4

Pour a layer of gravel into the frame, 2–3cm deep. This improves the drainage of the green roof, which helps reduce soil erosion and aerate plants.

How to make a green roof on your garden shed

Step 5

Cut a piece of weed matting large enough to cover the roof and the inside of the frame. Lay it over the gravel and attach to the frame using tacks.

How to make a green roof on your garden shed

Step 6

If you’re worried that soil may be too heavy, place potted plants on the gravel instead and surround them with woodchip to reduce weight on the roof.

How to make a green roof on your garden shed
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Words: Jake Graham www.jakegraham.co.uk

Illustrations: Enya Todd