When building or buying a dog kennel, one of the most important considerations is choosing the right roofing material. The roof plays a critical role in protecting dogs from various elements while also providing ventilation and shade. There are several factors to take into account when selecting roofing for a canine shelter, including durability, weather resistance, insulation, cost, and ease of installation and maintenance.
Page Contents
Key Considerations for Kennel Roofing
Here are some of the main things to keep in mind when choosing a roof for your dog kennel:
- Durability – Since dogs will be using the shelter regularly, you’ll want roofing that can stand up to wear and tear. It should be able to handle dogs jumping on it, high winds, hail, heavy rain, snow loads, and other elements.
- Weather Resistance – The roofing needs to be waterproof and provide adequate insulation from heat, cold, and moisture. Condensation can also be an issue in kennels, so ventilation is important.
- Insulation – In colder climates, insulation will help moderate interior temperatures. This keeps dogs comfortable and protects them from drafts.
- Cost – Kennel roofing runs the gamut from inexpensive roll roofing to higher-end metal roofing. Consider your budget constraints.
- Installation – Some roofing types are easier to install than others. Factor in your DIY skills or the need to hire a professional roofer.
- Maintenance – How much ongoing maintenance will the roof require? Some materials like metal are very low maintenance. Others like shingles may need regular upkeep.
- Appearance – For backyard kennels, you may want roofing that blends in well aesthetically with your home and landscaping.
- Ventilation – Proper airflow prevents moisture buildup and keeps kennels cooler in summer. Roof vents are a must.
- Shade – Dogs need shade and relief from direct sunlight. Overhangs, awnings, or shade cloth can provide sun protection.
Roofing Materials for Dog Kennels
Now let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular options for roofing dog kennels and shelters:
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are one of the most common and affordable roofing materials used on homes today. They are comprised of a fiberglass mat coated with asphalt and mineral granules. Shingles are available in a variety of styles and colors, providing a nice decorative look.
Pros:
- Relatively inexpensive
- Easy installation
- Lots of color/style choices
- Provides good weather protection
Cons:
- Prone to damage from dogs
- Needs regular maintenance/replacement every 15-20 years
- Not as durable as metal or composite roofs
Metal Roofing
Metal roofs are available in sheets or shingles made from various metals like galvanized steel, aluminum, or copper. They are very strong, fire resistant, and long lasting compared to other roofing materials.
Pros:
- Extremely durable and weather resistant
- Long lifespan of 40-70+ years
- Low maintenance
- Excellent rainwater runoff
- Good natural insulation
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost
- Noisy rain/hail unless insulation added
- Heat conduction can be an issue in hot climates
Rubber Roofing
Rubber roofing, also known as EPDM roofing, uses sheets of synthetic rubber for waterproof protection. It can be a smart choice for flat or low slope kennel roofs.
Pros:
- Seamless waterproof membrane
- Durable and flexible
- Resists punctures, UV rays, ozone, and extreme temps
- Easy self-adhesive installation
Cons:
- Vulnerable to wind damage if not fastened properly
- Can be expensive for large kennels
- Not for use on steeply pitched roofs
Plastic Panel Roofing
Plastic panel roofing provides an affordable, lightweight option for kennel buildings. These panels are typically made of polycarbonate or PVC and can be corrugated or flat. They allow UV light transmission while blocking harsh direct sunlight.
Pros:
- Inexpensive
- Lightweight yet durable plastic
- Easy “do-it-yourself” installation
- Lets in natural light; blocks UV rays
Cons:
- Can discolor, fade over time
- Not as insulated as other roofing options
- More vulnerable to damage from wind, hail, etc.
Roll Roofing
Roll roofing comes in continuous sheets of fiberglass coated with asphalt adhesive. It offers basic water protection at a low cost but isn’t as durable as shingles or metal roofing.
Pros:
- Very inexpensive
- Easy to transport and install
Cons:
- Prone to leaking over time
- Easily damaged by dogs, weather, falling debris
- Short lifespan of 5-10 years
- Minimal insulation
Composite Roofing
Composite roofing refers to modern materials that blend polymers with cement, wood fibers, or other materials for improved performance. Options like plastic polymer roofing mimic the look of expensive metal or slate roofing at a lower price point.
Pros:
- Durable, impact resistant
- Fireproof
- Customizable styles and colors
- 50+ year lifespan
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost than asphalt shingles or metal
- Limited availability; may require special order
Green Roofing
Green roofs consist of waterproof membrane, drainage layers, growing medium and plants. They provide insulation and sound absorption while blending into the natural landscape.
Pros:
- Excellent insulation and moisture regulation
- Noise reduction
- Blends into backyard setting
- Enhances aesthetic appeal
Cons:
- Higher upfront installation cost
- Regular maintenance and irrigation required
- Limited leakage protection for flat roofs
Key Considerations by Climate
The optimal kennel roofing type can vary depending on the climate where you live. Here are some key factors to consider based on your region:
Cold Climates
In cold regions with snowy winters, the main priorities are insulation and durability against heavy snow loads. Look for materials like:
- Asphalt shingles with radiant barrier
- Standing seam metal roof with snow guards
- Rubber roof with insulating layer
A minimum roof pitch of 4/12 is recommended to allow snowmelt runoff and prevent ice dam buildup.
Hot Climates
In hot southern regions, the priorities are UV resistance, reflectivity, and ventilation:
- Reflective metal roofing
- Composite roofing
- Shingles in light colors
- Ventilated attic space
A steeper 6/12 or greater pitch facilitates air circulation.
Coastal Regions
In coastal areas subject to high winds, driving rain, salt spray and excess moisture, look for impact-resistant materials such as:
- Impact resistant shingles
- Metal roofing
- Rubber membrane roofing
Also prioritize proper sealing around roof penetrations to prevent leaks.
Mixed Climates
For regions with a mix of weather conditions through the year, consider materials that offer year-round performance like:
- Architectural shingles
- Standing seam metal roofing
- Composite roofing
Choose a moderate roof pitch around 4.5/12 to balance ventilation needs in hot and cold months.
Roof Style Considerations
In addition to the roofing material itself, also factor in what roof style makes the most sense for your kennel building. Here are some common options:
Gable Roof
A gable roof with triangular gable ends is one of the most common kennel roof styles. It offers these benefits:
- Good drainage and ventilation
- Maximizes interior headroom
- Allows loft storage space
- Easy to install
Downsides include minimal overhead storage and less wind resistance than other roof styles.
Shed Roof
A simple sloped shed roof allows for easy drainage. Pros include:
- Easy to construct
- Good rainwater runoff
- Allows natural light
The limited pitch can result in condensation buildup and reduced lifespan of roofing materials though.
Flat Roof
Flat roofs work well for square kennel buildings. The pros are:
- Inexpensive
- Maximizes interior space
- Can double as additional exterior floor space
The lack of pitch demands heavy-duty waterproofing though. Rubber EPDM is the best fit.
Hip Roof
A hip roof with sloped ends offers greater stability:
- Increased wind resistance
- Unobstructed interior space
- Allows adequate water runoff
The complex design makes it more difficult and costly to build than a gable roof however.
Saltbox Roof
A saltbox roof is asymmetrically sloped with a short roof plane in front and long one in back. Advantages are:
- Increased headroom and storage in back
- Distinct appearance
- Angled side facilitates runoff
The uneven shape can complicate roofing installation though.
Butterfly Roof
Butterfly roofs have two roof planes angling down from a central ridge. Benefits include:
- Good drainage from central peak
- Excellent natural light intake
- Unique visual appeal
The dual sloped design is more complex to waterproof and build however.
Budget Considerations
Here’s a comparison of estimated costs for the most common kennel roofing materials installed:
| Roofing Material | Installed Cost Per 100 Square Feet |
|---|---|
| Asphalt shingles | $250 – $500 |
| Metal roofing | $400 – $1000+ |
| Rubber roofing | $400 – $850 |
| Plastic panels | $200 – $450 |
| Roll roofing | $100 – $250 |
| Composite | $500 – $1200+ |
| Green roof | $15 – $50 per sq. ft. |
This gives you a sense of which roofing types fall on the affordable end, like roll roofing and plastic panels, vs. higher-end choices like metal, composite, and green roofs. Your specific kennel size and roof pitch will also impact overall installation costs. A simple gable or shed roof is cheaper to install than a complex hip or butterfly roof design. Always get multiple contractor estimates before finalizing your kennel roofing budget.
Choosing the Best Kennel Roofing System
When evaluating all the different roofing materials and styles for an outdoor dog kennel, there are several optimal choices that rise to the top:
- Standing Seam Metal Roofing – This provides the ideal blend of durability, weather resistance, ventilation, and insulation for kennels in any climate. It’s a worthwhile long-term investment.
- Rubber EPDM Roofing – For flat or low-sloped kennel roofs, rubber membrane roofing is virtually impenetrable to moisture when installed correctly. It stands up well to dogs and the elements.
- Architectural Asphalt Shingles – If looking for an inexpensive yet attractive roofing option, architectural shingles offer greater durability and weather protection than basic 3-tab shingles.
- Composite Roofing – For those willing to splurge on a kennel roof with exceptional impact resistance, composites like plastic polymer roofing provide unbeatable longevity.
Be sure to choose a roofing color that won’t absorb excessive heat from sunlight. Lighter shades of metal or white shingles are ideal. Proper insulation also should be installed to keep dogs comfortable in all seasons.
The most critical factor is selecting durable, waterproof roofing that will protect your dogs from the elements for years to come. With regular inspection and maintenance, the right kennel roof should provide 20 years or more of reliable performance before needing replacement.
Conclusion
Installing proper roofing on your dog kennel is one of the most important parts of building a safe, durable shelter that will adequately protect your dogs. While many roofing options exist, focus on strength, weather resistance, ventilation, insulation, and cost when making your decision. The climate in your region should also inform the optimal roofing choice. With strategic planning and design, you can outfit your dog kennel with a roof that will stand the test of time and keep your beloved pets comfortable in their home away from home.