Flat Roof vs. Shingle Roof: Which Is Right for Your New Jersey Home?

If you’re building or renovating a home in New Jersey—especially in Bergen County—one of the most important decisions you’ll face is the type of roof you want. You might be stuck between two popular options: flat roofs and shingle roofs.

At All Point Roofing and Chimney, we’ve worked on thousands of homes across NJ, and here’s the truth: there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Your choice depends on your home’s design, how you want to use your space, and how much maintenance you’re up for.

Let’s break it down together—without the sales pitch, just real advice from locals who know roofing in New Jersey like the back of our hand.

Think About Your Home’s Style First

Walk around neighborhoods in towns like Ridgewood, Teaneck, or Hackensack and you’ll notice something: the roof plays a huge role in the look of a home.

• Shingle roofs fit right in with classic Colonial, Cape Cod, and Victorian-style homes you often see across North Jersey. They’re traditional, reliable, and come in a wide range of colors.

• Flat roofs, on the other hand, are a go-to for modern builds, home additions, and some commercial spaces. They give off a sleek, contemporary vibe—and they’re practical too.

If your home leans toward modern minimalism, a flat roof might be the perfect match. But if you’re working with a more classic design? Shingles are your friend.

Let’s Talk Weather—Because It’s New Jersey

We all know NJ weather is… unpredictable.

From blizzards in January to thunderstorms in July, your roof has to be tough. In places like Bergen County, where we see a full mix of snow, ice, heat, and heavy rain, this matters more than ever.

• Shingle roofs perform well in four-season climates. They shed snow easily, resist wind when installed properly, and hold up under pressure.

• Flat roofs can struggle with drainage if not built and maintained carefully. That doesn’t mean they’re a bad choice—it just means you’ll want a solid drainage system and a roofer who knows what they’re doing (hint: we do).

✅ Pro Tip: If you’re considering a flat roof in New Jersey, ask your contractor about TPO or EPDM roofing membranes—they’re designed to handle our wet and variable climate.

Cost Isn’t Everything, But It Matters

We get it—budget is always part of the decision. So how do flat roofs and shingle roofs stack up financially?

• Shingle roofs tend to be more affordable upfront. Materials like asphalt are cost-effective, and installation is quicker and easier.

• Flat roofs can be pricier, especially if you want to add insulation layers, special coatings, or extra drainage solutions. But they can also save you space and offer rooftop potential (more on that in a second).

If you’re trying to stay within a tight budget, shingles might be the smarter choice. But if you’re looking at the long-term value of using your roof as an outdoor living space, a flat roof can be a great investment.

Want Extra Space? Flat Roofs Can Deliver

Here’s where flat roofs have a serious edge: they give you usable space. Think:

• Rooftop deck

• Solar panels

• Garden beds

• Even a small lounge area

If your backyard is tight—or if you just love the idea of sipping coffee above the street—flat roofs give you that option.

At All Point Roofing and Chimney, we’ve worked on homes in areas like Fort Lee and Edgewater where outdoor space is limited. A flat roof can be your hidden square footage.

Maintenance: Know What You’re Signing Up For

No roof is totally maintenance-free. But here’s the difference:

• Shingle roofs require occasional inspections, especially after storms. You might need to replace a few shingles here and there, but they’re generally low-fuss.

• Flat roofs need regular checkups to avoid pooling water and small leaks. Left untreated, those issues can lead to bigger problems.

We always recommend homeowners schedule seasonal roof inspections—and we offer them throughout New Jersey, from Bergen to Ocean County. A little upkeep goes a long way, no matter which type of roof you choose.

Our Honest Take? It Comes Down to Your Lifestyle

If you’re someone who loves tradition, wants minimal upkeep, and appreciates a classic New Jersey home look—go with shingles.

If you lean toward modern style, want to create usable rooftop space, and don’t mind investing in maintenance for that sleek design—flat might be your path.

Still not sure? That’s exactly why we’re here.

Why Homeowners in New Jersey Trust All Point Roofing and Chimney

We’re proud to be one of the top-rated roofing contractors in New Jersey, and our mission is simple: give homeowners honest advice, quality workmanship, and local service they can count on.

• We service all of NJ, with a strong presence in Bergen County

• We offer free roof inspections and transparent estimates

• We use premium materials from trusted brands like GAF and CertainTeed

• We’re fully licensed, insured, and committed to doing the job right

Whether you’re comparing roof types or ready to schedule your next repair, our team is here to help.