What Roof Types Do Roofing Contractors Offer Solutions For?
When you ask a roofer what they work on, the short answer is almost everything that keeps water out. The longer answer is more useful. Different roof types need different tools, skills, and materials. If you know the basic categories, you can match your home or building to the right solution without guessing. I think it helps to group things by slope first, then by material.
Sloped roofs most homeowners know
Asphalt shingles
The familiar choice. Affordable, widely available, and decent in four seasons. You will hear terms like three tab and architectural. Architectural shingles add thickness and wind resistance. Good contractors focus on underlayment, starter courses, and flashing so the nice surface has a solid foundation.
Metal roofing
Clean lines and serious durability. Two common styles show up. Standing seam with concealed fasteners for a tidy, modern look. Exposed fastener panels for a budget friendly install, especially on simple gables. Metal loves a correct gauge, proper clips, and smart details at chimneys and valleys.
Tile roofing
Concrete or clay tiles bring weight and longevity. They need strong framing, specific underlayments, and exact flashings. Repairs often mean careful lift and reset rather than quick patches. In warm climates, tile and proper ventilation can help with attic heat.
Slate and synthetic slate
Natural slate is beautiful and heavy. It needs specialized installers who understand slate thickness, fasteners, and walking patterns. Composites mimic the look with less weight. Both reward careful flashing and a deck that is sound.
Wood shakes and shingles
Warm and textured. They require spacing for drying, accurate ridge details, and regular maintenance in certain climates. Some regions restrict use due to fire codes, so always check first.
Low slope and flat roofs for modern homes and small buildings
TPO and PVC membranes
Single ply sheets heat welded into a watertight surface. Light colors reflect heat. Great for clean, simple footprints with good drainage. Details at edges and penetrations decide success.
EPDM rubber
A durable membrane that can be fully adhered or mechanically attached. Excellent in cold climates. Seams are bonded with tapes and adhesives, so surface prep matters.
Modified bitumen and built up roofing
Layered systems with asphalt and reinforcing. Tough under foot traffic. Often used with gravel or cap sheets. Contractors who do this well are particular about torches, laps, and base sheet layout.
Coatings
Silicone, acrylic, or polyurethane applied over existing low slope roofs when the base is still sound. Coatings can extend life and improve reflectivity. Prep is the whole game. Clean, repair, prime, then coat in the right weather window.
Specialty and emerging options
Synthetic composites
Products that resemble shake, slate, or tile with lower weight and simpler installs. Look for impact ratings and clear fastening specs.
Green roofs
Vegetated systems that add insulation and stormwater benefits. Require structural evaluation, root barriers, drainage layers, and ongoing care. Beautiful when designed with maintenance in mind.
Solar integrated roofing
Solar shingles or metal panels paired with racking and wiring that keep the envelope intact. The roofing and electrical teams should coordinate from day one so penetrations, fire set backs, and load paths are correct.
What contractors actually “offer” beyond materials
Most reputable teams provide a full stack of services regardless of the roof type.
- Assessment and diagnosis that separates surface damage from flashing or ventilation issues
- Repairs that fix the source rather than cover a symptom
- Replacements with permits, inspections, and debris control
- Ventilation and insulation upgrades that make new roofs perform better
- Gutter and drainage solutions so water leaves the roof quickly
- Storm response for wind, hail, and urgent dry ins
- Maintenance plans that catch small problems before they grow teeth
How to match your roof to the right solution
- Start with slope and structure. Steep, moderate, or low.
- Note your climate. Heat, snow, salt air, heavy wind.
- Decide your priority. Longevity, curb appeal, budget, speed.
- Ask for details in writing. Underlayment, flashings, ventilation, warranties.
- Compare complete quotes, not just surface materials.
A quiet closing thought. Roof types are not just styles. They are systems. When a contractor speaks clearly about the deck, the underlayment, the flashing, and the ventilation for your specific slope, you are probably in good hands. Pick the solution that fits your weather and your goals, then let a careful crew do ordinary things well. That is how roofs stay boring, which is exactly what you want when rain shows up.
This post was written by a professional at Baypoint Roofing. Baypoint Roofing is a State-certified, insured, bonded, and licensed roofing contractor specializing in insurance restoration, storm damage repair, and expert roof inspections and installations. With over 25 years of experience, we proudly serve the entire state of Florida. Whether you need a complete roof replacement or precise repairs, our skilled team delivers unmatched quality and service. Trust Baypoint Roofing, roofing companies land o lakes fl, to protect your home or business with solutions that endure the Florida elements and exceed your expectations. Your satisfaction is our top priority.