Deciding on the right material for your chicken run roof is an important decision that can impact the safety, comfort, and longevity of your coop.
The two most popular options are metal and wood, each with their own sets of pros and cons.
Here is a detailed comparison of metal vs wood chicken run roofs to help you make the best choice.
Key Factors to Consider
When choosing between metal or wood, there are a few key factors to take into account:
Weather Resistance - The roof needs to stand up to rain, wind, snow, and sun exposure without rotting, warping, or becoming damaged.
Insulation - The roofing material impacts how well your coop holds in heat in winter and stays cool in summer.
Weight - A heavier roof can make the framing and supports more complex and costly.
Fire Safety - Some materials are naturally more fire-resistant.
Noise - Rain, hail, and other weather can make some materials noisier.
Cost - Prices vary quite a bit between metal and wood options.
Keep these factors in mind as we dive into the details on metal and wood chicken run roofs.
Metal Roofing for Chicken Coops
Here are the pros and cons:
Benefits of Metal Roofs
Long Lasting - Metal roofs can last for decades with little to no maintenance required. The long lifespan offsets the higher initial cost.
Weatherproof - Metal stands up to rain, snow, wind, and sun without issue. Water and moisture rolls right off metal roofs.
Good Insulation - Painted metal roofing includes an insulating backing that helps moderate interior temperatures.
Fire Resistant - Metal roofs do not support combustion and are inherently fire-resistant.
Pest Resistant - Rodents and birds cannot chew through or nest in metal like they can with wood.
Lightweight - Thin sheet metal roofing is lighter than most wood roofing options, requiring less structural support.
Noise Reduction - Modern metal roofing is designed to decrease noise from rain and hail.
Potential Downsides of Metal Roofs
Higher Cost - Metal roofing costs significantly more upfront compared to wood, from 2 to 5 times as much depending on materials.
Heat Transfer - Unpainted, non-insulated metal can transfer heat into the coop interior on hot sunny days.
Slippery Surface - Metal can be slippery, especially when wet or icy. Safe installation is important.
Complex Installation - Professional installation is recommended for metal roofing to ensure proper waterproofing.
Conducts Electricity - Metal roofing will conduct electricity from lightning strikes; proper grounding is critical.
Can Dent - Metal dents and shows damage more easily than other roofing types if hit by hail or falling branches.
Appearance - Some people dislike the industrial look of exposed metal roofing. Painted finishes are available.
Wood Roofing for Chicken Coops
Benefits of Wood Roofs
Lower Cost - Even high-end wood shake or shingle roofs cost significantly less than metal roofing.
Easy Installation - Wood roofs can often be installed DIY if you have basic carpentry skills.
Good Insulation - Wood helps insulate against summer heat and winter cold. Thicker wood is more effective.
Natural Appearance - Many people prefer the traditional, rustic look of wood roofing. Stains and paints allow customization of color.
Quieter - Wood absorbs sound rather than amplifying it like metal can. Rain and hail are quieter.
Lighter Weight - Most wood roofing is lighter than metal, requiring less robust framing and supports.
Softer Surface - Wood is not as slippery as metal and provides better grip if chickens get on the roof.
Potential Downsides of Wood Roofs
Weathering - Wood roofs require staining/sealing every 2-5 years to protect from water, sun, and pests.
Not Fireproof - Wood can combust and is not an inherently fire-resistant material. Proper installation is key.
Rot & Warping - Wood can warp or rot over time, especially if subjected to moisture and inadequate ventilation.
Pests - Termites, carpenter ants, woodpeckers, and other pests can damage a wood roof.
Leaks - Wood shakes and shingles are more prone to developing leaks if any are damaged or lifted.
Shorter Lifespan - Even with good maintenance, most wood roofs need replacing after 15-30 years.
Weighted Down - Heavy snow or debris accumulation stresses and weighs down wood roofing more than metal.
Key Considerations for Your Climate
Your climate is a major factor influencing which roofing material is best suited for your chicken coop.
Hot Climates
In hot climates, wood's insulation helps keep coops cooler while unpainted metal can transfer unwanted heat inside. Condensation dripping from metal roofs can also increase interior humidity. Painted metal with insulation backing or reflective coatings are better metal options for hot regions.
Cold Climates
In cold climates, condensation and frost buildup within inadequately ventilated wood roofs can cause rotting, mold, and moisture damage. Metal is naturally resistant to snow, ice, and other wet weather. Foam-backed metal provides additional insulation while remaining condensation and frost-resistant.
Wet Climates
In regions with substantial rainfall, wood roofs are more prone to leaking and moisture damage if not properly installed and maintained. Metal roofs shed water efficiently, though heavy rain on metal can be noisy. Be sure to use thicker gauge metal and have it properly secured.
Dry Climates
In arid climates, sun exposure and heat are bigger concerns than moisture. Painted metal with insulation backing reflects sunlight and insulates from heat. Well-sealed wood also provides good insulation if properly installed and ventilated.
Ideal Roof Pitch for Different Materials
Low Pitch Roofs
On roofs with less than a 4/12 pitch, standing water and snow accumulations are more likely. Metal handles this better than most wood roofing. exceptions are wood shakes or shingles with interlocking designs.
Steep Pitch Roofs
On roofs over 6/12 pitch, metal can be slippery while wood provides better grip. Metal installation also gets more complex on very angled roofs. Wood shingles and shakes stand up well to steep pitches.
Optimal Pitch Roofs
An ideal pitch for both metal and wood roofing is a 4/12 to 6/12 slope. This allows water to run off without too much slope or height. Talk with your roofing contractor about the best pitch range for your selected roofing material.
Cost Comparison
Of course, cost often plays a significant role in choosing chicken coop roof materials. Here's an overview of typical installed costs:
- Asphalt/Fiberglass Shingles - $3-$8 per square foot installed
- Cedar Shakes & Shingles - $8-$15 per square foot installed
- 3-Tab Composite Shingles - $5-$8 per square foot installed
- Architectural Grade Shingles - $6-$12 per square foot installed
- Basic Standing Seam Metal Roof - $6-$12 per square foot installed
- Premium Standing Seam Metal Roof - $12-$20 per square foot installed
As you can see, metal roofing runs 2 to 5 times the cost of most wood shingle and shake roofing. But it comes with greater durability and weather-resistance.
Related Posts
Final Considerations
To decide between metal vs wood for your coop roof, weigh the importance of upfront cost, lifetime value, weather resistance, insulation, fire safety, maintenance, and visual appeal. Hiring a professional roofing contractor is recommended to ensure proper installation and waterproofing.
Focus on selecting high-quality, durable materials suited for your climate. With proper installation, both metal and wood can provide many years of safe shelter over your flock's heads!