Shed Roof Overhang Detail

When framing the roof consider how much overhang you want off the edge of your shed.

Shed roof overhang detail.

A cantilever is a rigid structural element anchored only at one end to a vertical support from which it is protruding. You then have rafters running down from this ridge board and resting on the top wall plates. A stick framed roof uses 2x4 s or 2x6 s or whatever you are framing with but has a ridge board running down the middle ridge line. An overhang is the portion of the roof that runs past the wall providing coverage for the space around the foundation of your shed.

At the bottom of the shed wall the fact that water from the roof is being directed away from the shed means that the base of the shed gets less persistently damp. When added to the use of a gutter to collect roof water the damage to the shed walls is minimised. The more overhang the further away water will puddle at the base of your shed. If you build a shed on a gravel pad or close to the ground then this is a great way to keep water away from your foundation.

Cantilevered structures are popular for homes with balconies. Overhangs can vary in width from a few inches to several feet. On sheds and homes overhangs are commonly referred to as eaves or rakes depending on where they are located. A cantilever roof overhang is one way to really give a really distinctive look to your home.

Even a relatively small overhang can provide significant protection. Using a cantilever means you don t need external bracing.