Last updated: 2026-08-25 by Ted Sellers, Owner
Rolled roofing can be used on some small, simple roof areas, but the correct installation method depends on the specific product, roof slope, deck condition, drainage, and manufacturer instructions. It is not a one-size-fits-all substitute for shingles or a membrane roof system.
For a detached shed or a small outbuilding, rolled roofing may be a practical option when the roof is in sound condition and the product is approved for the slope. For a home, attached garage, or roof with a history of leaks, have the roof evaluated before covering the problem.
What is rolled roofing?
Rolled roofing is an asphalt-based roofing product sold in rolls rather than individual shingles. It is often used on utility structures and certain low-slope applications where the selected product and installation detail are appropriate.
“Rolled roofing” describes a product category, not a complete roof design. Mineral-surfaced rolls, modified-bitumen products, and other low-slope materials have different requirements. Always start with the current data sheet for the exact product you plan to use.
When is rolled roofing a reasonable choice?
- Small detached structures: Sheds and simple utility buildings may be suitable when the roof deck and drainage are sound.
- Limited, low-visibility areas: Some small porch or lean-to roofs can be candidates, depending on the slope and product approval.
- Short-term planning: A limited repair may be appropriate while a larger roof project is being evaluated—but it should not hide active water damage.
When should you choose a different roof system?
Do not choose rolled roofing just because a roof looks flat or because it is inexpensive. Very low-slope areas, roofs over finished living space, roof sections with drainage issues, and complicated flashing conditions may require a different, manufacturer-approved system.
| Situation | Why a closer evaluation is needed |
|---|---|
| Standing water or slow drainage | Water can challenge seams and flashings; the drainage problem must be addressed first. |
| Soft or stained roof decking | New roofing will not correct wet, deteriorated, or structurally compromised sheathing. |
| Roof attached to the home | A leak can damage finished interiors, insulation, and framing. |
| Multiple penetrations or wall transitions | Pipes, skylights, chimneys, and sidewalls need detailed flashing coordination. |
What to check before installing rolled roofing
The deck, slope, drainage, and product instructions should be confirmed before any material is unrolled. This prevents a simple project from turning into a hidden leak.
- Inspect the roof deck. Replace deteriorated sheathing and address moisture evidence before installing a new covering.
- Confirm the roof slope. Use the minimum slope listed in the manufacturer’s current instructions for that exact roll product and installation method.
- Review drainage. Water needs a clear route to the eave, gutter, scupper, or drain without being trapped by debris or framing.
- Plan the edge and flashing details. Eaves, rakes, ridges, walls, and penetrations need compatible details—not generic caulk as a substitute.
- Follow the product instructions exactly. Those instructions control lap treatment, fastening, exposure, temperature limitations, and required accessories.
How rolled roofing typically fails
Most early failures begin at laps, flashing details, edges, or an underlying deck problem—not in the middle of a clean roof field. Common warning signs are curled edges, open seams, cracks, blisters, granule loss, stained sheathing, or water marks inside the building.
- Installing over wet or deteriorated material
- Using a product outside its listed slope range
- Skipping required lap or edge details
- Covering a drain path or allowing debris to collect
- Relying on sealant to compensate for a poor roof design
Can rolled roofing go over an old roof?
Do not assume a re-cover is acceptable just because the old roof looks mostly flat. Bubbling, trapped moisture, loose material, soft spots, and failed flashing can remain underneath and shorten the life of the new layer.
A roof inspection can identify whether removal, deck repair, or a different roof system is the more responsible option. For leak symptoms, start with our roof leak source guide or review our St. Paul roof repair information.
What rules apply in Minnesota?
The local permit process, adopted code, manufacturer instructions, and project conditions all matter. The Minnesota Residential Code is a useful starting point, but it does not replace product-specific installation instructions or a site-specific professional review.
When to call a roofing professional
Call a roofer before work begins if the roof is connected to the home, has an interior leak, contains complex flashing, or is too high or steep to work on safely. A professional can assess visible roof conditions, identify likely leak paths, and explain whether repair, replacement, or a different roof system makes sense.
For a roofing assessment in St. Paul or the Twin Cities, request a written roofing estimate.
Frequently asked questions
Can rolled roofing be used on a shed?
It can be suitable for some sheds when the roof slope, deck, drainage, and the product instructions all support it. Check the exact product requirements instead of using a generic online pitch rule.
How long does rolled roofing last?
Service life varies widely with the product, exposure, drainage, installation quality, and maintenance. The manufacturer’s warranty and product documents are more useful than a blanket lifespan promise.
Will rolled roofing stop an existing leak?
Not reliably unless the source of the leak and any damaged deck or flashing are corrected first. Covering an active problem can make later repair harder and more expensive.
Need a roof inspection in Saint Paul or the Twin Cities? Call Sellers Roofing Company at +1-651-703-2336 or schedule a free estimate. We are a black-owned, NMSDC-certified MBE roofing contractor with 9+ years experience.
