Understanding the Different Types of Roofers

The Different Types of Roofers

You may be considering installing a new roof or replacing an existing roof and trying to do your research. There is a lot of information available on different types of roofs – asphalt shingles, metal, and wood – as well as which work best on different kinds of houses. There is information about pricing and a variety of topics regarding roofs. You may feel a bit overwhelmed with the selection process.

Did you know that there are several specialized types of roofers? Each type of roofer has specific expertise in different areas of roof work. Therefore, it's crucial to consider the type of roofer you need when selecting the best roofing company for your job. A roofer, roof mechanic, or roofing contractor is a skilled tradesperson who specializes in constructing roofs. Within the roofing profession, there are roofers who specialize in a particular type of roof, such as shingles or flat roofs. Additionally, there are roofers who specialize in either commercial roofing or residential roofing.

At Allied Roofing Solutions, your New Jersey roofers, we have extensive experience working on different types of roofs. In this article, we present the categories of roofers, each with their distinct specialties so that you can better understand the differences. With this knowledge, you'll be able to choose the best roofer for your particular roofing needs.

Four Categories of Roofers

There are several types of roofers, but they can be categorized into four primary groups based on their unique skills, knowledge, and training requirements. It's essential to understand that each category demands a specific set of expertise, making it crucial to choose the right type of roofer for your roofing project. While some roofing companies can handle various styles of roofing, certain manufacturers only authorize particular types of roofers to install their products. Therefore, it's imperative to verify whether the chosen roofer is authorized to work with the specific product before proceeding with the installation.

Shinglers

Shinglers are roofers who are mainly responsible for installing shingle roofs, tiles, shakes and other products that are nailed into the roof.  

Shinglers are responsible for:

• Using materials like tar, asphalt, and gravel
• Putting up asphalt shingles and other roofing tiles
• Using waterproofing coats
• Using power and hand tools
• Installing scaffolding for secure access to rooftops

Metal Roofers

Metal roofers specialize in installing, repairing, and maintaining metal roofs. Metal roofers require specific skills and knowledge to work with metal roofing materials, including understanding the different types of metal roofs, such as standing seam, corrugated, and metal shingles. They also need to know how to properly install a metal roof to prevent leaks and ensure its longevity.

When working with metal roofs, metal roofers must be comfortable working at heights and using specialized tools and equipment, such as metal cutters and seamers. They also need to understand the local building codes and regulations regarding the installation of metal roofs. Additionally, they need to be aware of the different types of metal roof coatings available to protect the metal roof from weathering and other types of damage.

If you're considering installing a metal roof, it's essential to hire a qualified and experienced metal roofer to ensure that your metal roof is installed correctly and will provide the maximum benefits.

Flat Roofers

Flat roofers are also known as ‘single ply’ roofers install roofs that are flat, with very little or no slope, on commercial and residential properties. Flat roofers need to know how to properly install and maintain a flat roof to prevent leaks and ensure its longevity. They must be knowledgeable about the proper flashing techniques, drainage systems, and sealing procedures to keep the flat roof watertight.

If you're in need of flat roof repair or maintenance, our team of experienced flat roofers is here to help. We understand the unique challenges and considerations that come with flat roofs, and we have the expertise to handle any flat roofing project, big or small. Whether you need a repair to an existing flat roof or ongoing maintenance to keep your flat roof in top condition, we have the skills and knowledge to get the job done right. We use only high-quality materials and the latest industry techniques to ensure that your flat roof is durable, energy-efficient, and long-lasting. Contact us today for a free roofing estimate and see how we can help with your flat roofing needs.

Hot Roofers

Hot roofers are specialized in the installation and repair of hot roofs, using multiple layers of asphalt and felt. Both residential and commercial properties can have tar and gravel roofs. They must have a good understanding of the materials and techniques used in hot roof installation and repair, as well as local building codes and regulations.

Commercial and Residential

Another way to categorize roofers is by commercial and residential. Commercial roofers specialize in large, flat roofs commonly found on commercial buildings, while residential roofers specialize in the installation, repair, and maintenance of sloped roofs for homes and residential properties.

Commercial

A roofing contractor who installs roofs on commercial buildings in industrial areas has specific skills that are needed to perform the work. Typically, commercial roofers work in large teams. A commercial roofing job can involve heavy equipment, which exposes the roofers to hazardous conditions. A commercial roof can require more expertise than residential roof installations. A commercial roof installation is generally considered to be more technical because the roofs are usually flat or slightly sloped, which require care in installation and maintenance.

Residential

Residential roofers, on the other hand, specialize in the installation, repair, and maintenance of roofs for homes and other residential properties. They typically work on sloped or pitched roofs and use different roofing materials than commercial roofers,

Most Common Types of Roofs

There are many different kinds of roofs because there are many different kinds of houses with different styles of roofs. However, there are three common types of roofs.

Flat Roof

A flat roof has a very little slope. The slower water flow can be more prone to developing leaks than pitched roofs.

Pitched Roof

The pitched roof is the most common kind of roof. It is a sloping roof that can have a high or low pitch and there may be many pitches on one roof. Water, snow, and ice slide off of this kind of roof more easily, especially a pitch that is steeper. This type of roof uses more materials than a lower pitch or flat roof because there is more square footage surface that needs to be covered.

Gable Roof

A gable roof is a pitched roof that has two sloping sides that meet at the ridge. Both sides slope inward and are divided into two flats. This type of roof is less interesting than a pitched roof and is not as common as it once was.

Contact Allied Roofing Solutions Today for Roofing Options

Thinking about getting a new roof? Then, you should contact our team of professional roofing contractors for knowledgeable advice and consultation on the different available options. We will give you honest and reliable guidance. We serve New Jersey residents in Bergen County, Essex County, Hudson County, Middlesex County, Morris County, Passaic County, and Somerset County. Call us at   (201) 773-0633 or complete the free roof estimate contact form to schedule an appointment. Let us help you choose the “right” roof for your home!