Choosing the right roofing material for sheds, garages, workshops, and garden buildings often comes down to two popular options: corrugated bitumen roofing and PVC roofing sheets.
Both materials are widely used in the UK, but they perform differently depending on budget, environment, and how the building will be used. In this guide, we compare bitumen roofing vs PVC roofing sheets to help you choose the best solution for your project.
What Is Corrugated Bitumen Roofing?
Corrugated bitumen roof sheets are made from bitumen-saturated fibres, formed into a corrugated profile for added strength and water runoff.
They are commonly used for:
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Garden sheds
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Garages
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Workshops
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Stables and agricultural buildings
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Storage units
Corrugated bitumen roof sheets
What Are PVC Roofing Sheets?
PVC roofing sheets are lightweight plastic sheets, often translucent or clear, designed to allow natural light into a structure while providing weather protection.
PVC roofing is commonly used for:
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Greenhouses
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Carports
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Canopies
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Pergolas
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Patio covers
Strength & Durability Comparison
Corrugated Bitumen Roofing
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Strong and flexible
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Handles wind and rain well
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Quiet during heavy rainfall
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Designed for long-term outdoor exposure
PVC Roofing Sheets
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Lightweight but less impact-resistant
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Can become brittle over time if low-quality
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Noisy in heavy rain
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More vulnerable to cracking under impact
Winner for durability: Corrugated bitumen roofing
Weather Resistance & Waterproofing
Bitumen Roofing
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Excellent waterproofing
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Performs well in UK wind and rain
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Less affected by temperature changes
PVC Roofing
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Waterproof when installed correctly
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Can expand and contract significantly
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Fixings must allow for movement
Winner for UK weather: Bitumen roofing
Light Transmission
Bitumen Roofing
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Opaque
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Blocks sunlight completely
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Ideal where shade or storage is required
PVC Roofing
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Clear or translucent options
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Allows natural daylight
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Ideal for greenhouses and covered seating
Winner for light: PVC roofing sheets
Noise Levels During Rain
One major difference between the two materials is noise.
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Bitumen roofing absorbs sound and remains quiet
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PVC roofing amplifies rain and hail noise
For garages, workshops, and sheds, bitumen roofing provides a more comfortable environment.
Installation & Ease of Use
Bitumen Roofing
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Easy to cut and fix
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Installed directly onto timber battens
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Uses simple nails or fixings
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Forgiving for DIY installers
PVC Roofing
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Lightweight and easy to lift
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Requires careful allowance for expansion
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Fixings must not be overtightened
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Can crack if installed incorrectly
Winner for DIY installation: Bitumen roofing
Cost Comparison
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Bitumen roofing is typically more cost-effective
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PVC roofing can be cheaper upfront but may require earlier replacement
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Bitumen accessories are affordable and long-lasting
Over time, bitumen roofing often offers better overall value.
Lifespan & Maintenance
Bitumen Roofing
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Lifespan: 10–20+ years
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Minimal maintenance
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Resistant to rot and corrosion
PVC Roofing
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Lifespan varies by quality
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Can discolour or become brittle
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May need replacement sooner
(Internal link: How long do corrugated bitumen roof sheets last?)
Which Should You Choose?
Choose corrugated bitumen roofing if you need:
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Durability
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Quiet performance
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Long-term value
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Reliable weather resistance
Choose PVC roofing sheets if you need:
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Natural light
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Lightweight coverage
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Greenhouse or patio use
For most sheds, garages, and workshops, bitumen roofing is the stronger, more practical option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is bitumen roofing better than PVC?
For durability, weather resistance, and noise reduction — yes.
Does PVC roofing last as long as bitumen?
Generally no. Bitumen roofing typically lasts longer in UK conditions.
Can PVC roofing crack?
Yes, especially if installed incorrectly or exposed to impact.
Can bitumen roofing be used on sheds?
Yes. It is one of the most popular shed roofing materials in the UK.
Which roofing is quieter in rain?
Bitumen roofing is significantly quieter than PVC.
