What Type of Roof Do I Have?

A Homeowner’s Guide to Roof Types

One of the most common questions we hear at Refined Home Services is: “What roof type do I have?”

Knowing your roof type is essential when planning a roof repair or replacement. Your roof’s shape affects materials, pricing, installation time, drainage, and durability. Yet many homeowners don’t know how to identify their roof type — or why it matters.

This guide will walk you through identifying your roof type, explaining the most common roof styles, and breaking down the top three things a professional roofer considers when replacing your roof.

Why Knowing Your Roof Type Matters

Your roof type directly impacts:

• The cost of replacement

• Which roofing materials are allowed

• How your roof handles rain, snow, and wind

• How long will your roof last

When homeowners understand their roof type, they can make smarter decisions and get more accurate estimates.

How to Identify My Roof Type (Step-by-Step)

If you’re asking, “How do I identify my roof type?”, start with these simple steps:

1. Stand back and look at your home from the street

2. Count how many sides slope downward

3. Look for peaks, ridges, or flat areas

4. Note how steep the roof appears

5. Check if the roof has dormers or multiple sections

Your roof’s overall shape is the biggest clue.

Common Roof Types Homeowners Have

Below are the most common roof types we see when serving local homeowners.

Gable Roof	Most common roof type Two sloping sides that meet at a central ridge Triangular shape on each end Excellent drainage and ventilation Affordable and straightforward to replace A roof that looks like an upside-down “V” is likely a gable roof.
Hip Roof	Slopes down on all four sides No vertical ends More wind-resistant than gable roofs Slightly higher replacement cost due to added complexity Hip roofs are popular in areas prone to storms.
Gambrel Roof	Two slopes on each side Steeper lower slope, flatter upper slope Common on barn-style or colonial homes These roofs offer more interior space but require careful flashing work.
Mansard Roof	Four sides with steep lower slopes Flat or low-slope top Common on historic or older homes Mansard roofs are complex and often more expensive to replace.
Flat Roof	Low slope (not completely flat) Common on modern homes and commercial buildings Uses membrane systems instead of shingles Flat roofs require specialized installation and drainage design.
Skillion and Lean-to Roof	Single sloping surface Often used on additions or modern designs Simple shape, but drainage is critical
Saltbox	Asymmetrical roof with one long slope and one short slope Common in early New England homes Sheds snow and rain efficiently

Still Wondering: “What Roof Type Do I Have?”

If your roof includes:

• Multiple peaks

• Valleys where slopes meet

• Dormers or additions

You may have a combination roof, which is very common. Taking photos from different angles can help a roofer identify it quickly.

What Do Roofers Consider When Replacing a Roof?

Once your roof type is identified, roofers focus on these three key factors.

1. Roof Pitch and Design Complexity

Roof pitch refers to how steep your roof is.

Why this matters:

• Steeper roofs take longer to install

• Complex roof types require more cuts and flashing

• Higher pitch usually means higher labor costs

A simple gable roof is typically the most cost-effective to replace.

2. Roofing Materials That Match Your Roof Type

Not all roofing materials work on all roof types.

Examples:

• Asphalt shingles work best on sloped roofs

• Metal roofing works on most roof styles

• Flat roofs require membrane systems, not shingles

• Slate roofs may need structural reinforcement

Choosing the wrong material can shorten the lifespan of your roof.

3. Drainage, Ventilation, and Local Weather

Roofers evaluate how your roof handles:

• Rain and snow runoff

• Heat buildup and attic ventilation

• Ice dams and moisture

• Wind exposure and storm risk

Your roof type must work with your local climate, not against it.

Why Homeowners Trust Refined Home Services

At Refined Home Services, we help homeowners:

• Identify their roof type accurately

• Choose the right materials for their home

• Understand pricing with no surprises

• Protect their investment long-term

If you’re still asking “What roof type do I have?” or planning a roof replacement, our team is here to help.

Schedule a Roof Inspection with Refined Home Services

A professional inspection is the fastest way to identify your roof type and understand your options. In the meantime, review our comprehensive roofing guide on what to consider when replacing or repairing your roof.

Contact Refined Home Services today to get clear answers and expert guidance for your roof.