Raising the Roof: 5 Roofing Styles to Consider for Your Next Home Renovation

Thinking about upgrading your roof? Here’s what to know before you climb that ladder. 

Your roof plays a huge role in your home’s look, comfort, and energy efficiency—and if you're planning a renovation, it might be the perfect time to give it some love. Whether you're replacing a worn-out structure or redesigning your whole exterior, choosing the right roof style can boost both curb appeal and long-term value. 

Here are five popular roofing options to explore during your renovation—and a few tips for staying organized while you work from the top down. 

1. Gable Roofs – A Timeless Favorite 

This classic triangle shape is one of the most common styles across Canada. It’s known for its clean lines and ability to shed water and snow easily (a big win for GTA winters). Gable roofs also allow for excellent attic ventilation and extra space, making them a practical and affordable option for many homes. 

Good to know: Gables are straightforward to install but can be vulnerable to high winds if not properly braced.

Classic and cost-effective—gable roofs are a top pick for all-season durability and timeless charm

2. Hip Roofs – Sleek, Sturdy, and Stylish 

Hip roofs slope on all four sides and come together at the top, giving your home a more streamlined, symmetrical appearance. They're ideal for windy or storm-prone areas thanks to their solid structure, and they offer more shade around the perimeter—great for those backyard summer hangouts.

Good to know: Hipped roofs are a bit more complex to build, but the added durability often pays off in the long run. 

Hip roofs add structural strength and shade—perfect for storm protection and curb appeal

3. Flat Roofs – Modern and Functional 

Flat doesn’t mean boring. A flat roof can give your home a modern edge while creating usable outdoor space—think rooftop garden, patio, or even solar panels. They’re also easier and safer to access for inspections or maintenance. 

Good to know: Drainage is key with flat roofs. Make sure your contractor includes a proper waterproofing system to avoid standing water. 

More than just a roof—flat roofs offer outdoor space and eco-friendly design flexibility

4. Skillion Roofs – Sleek, Minimal, and Modern 

Skillion roofs feature an angled slope—like a flat roof tilted to one side. This simple design has become a go-to choice for modern homes, especially those with minimalist or contemporary aesthetics. The sharp angle creates dramatic interior ceilings and makes room for tall windows and extra sunlight. 

Good to know: Skillion roofs are great for solar panel setups and offer excellent drainage, but their steep pitch can require careful waterproofing at the higher wall junction.

Skillion roofs are a modern favorite—clean, dramatic, and solar-ready

5. Solar Panel Roofs – Smart, Sustainable, and Cost-Saving 

More homeowners are investing in solar panels as part of their roof renovations—and it’s easy to see why. Installing solar panels can significantly reduce energy bills, increase your home’s efficiency, and shrink your carbon footprint, all while boosting property value. 

They’re especially popular on flat or south-facing roofs, but modern systems are adaptable to many styles. Paired with energy incentives and rebates across Ontario, it’s a long-term investment that pays off. 

Good to know: Professional installation is key—your roof should be in good shape before adding panels, and you’ll need to check for proper sun exposure and local permits.

Solar panels turn rooftops into power stations—cutting energy costs and boosting home efficiency

💡 Incentives for Solar Panel Installation in Ontario 

Looking to add solar panels to your roof? Good news—there are a few government programs that can help offset the cost if you live in Ontario: 

Canada Greener Homes Loan (Federal):  Offers interest-free loans to help cover energy-efficient upgrades, including solar panels. 

Home Renovation Savings Program (Ontario):  A rebate program that helps with part of the cost of installing solar panels and battery storage (for on-site use). 

Toronto Home Energy Loan Program (HELP):  Low-interest loans that you pay back through your property tax bill—great for making solar more accessible. 

Ontario Net Metering Program:  Lets you send extra solar energy back to the grid for credits on your electricity bill. 

📝 Note: These programs are current as of April 2025 and may change. We recommend checking the links above or speaking with a solar provider or energy advisor to get the most up-to-date info. 

Professionally installed solar panels boost home value and deliver long-term energy savings

Roofing Renovations: Plan from the Top Down 

Roof work often means debris—old shingles, insulation, and framing materials can pile up quickly. That’s why it’s smart to line up your waste removal plan ahead of time. Renting a construction bin helps keep your site tidy and safe, whether you’re tackling a small section or doing a full tear-off and rebuild. Ready to start your roof renovation? Start with a solid plan, a reliable contractor, and the right waste solution in place—you’ll be raising the roof in no time.

Keep it clean—bin rentals simplify roof renovation cleanup from start to finish

Why Choose Ontario Trucking & Disposal?

Ontario Trucking & Disposal (OTD) provides fast, reliable bin rental services for residential and commercial renovation projects. Specializing in construction debris removal, we make it easy to manage waste from demolition, remodeling, and outdoor upgrades.  

Proudly serving Toronto, North York, Etobicoke, Mississauga, and the surrounding GTA, we offer flexible bin sizes and dependable service to keep your project on track. 

We offer competitive pricing, flexible bin sizes, and reliable service—and through our trusted network, we also connect clients with additional construction services to support a wide range of project needs. 

Got a project in mind? Give us a call today at 416-936-8642 for a free estimate.