Top 10 Best Roofing Contractors in Shetland Islands

Why Roofing in Shetland Is a Specialist Job

Few places in the United Kingdom test a roof quite like the Shetland Islands. Sitting roughly halfway between mainland Scotland and Norway, the archipelago regularly sees gale-force winds through the autumn and winter, horizontal rain driven off the North Atlantic, and salt-laden air that attacks fixings, flashings and metal sheeting. A roof that would last forty years in a sheltered English town may need attention far sooner in Lerwick, Brae or Unst if it was not designed and installed for these conditions.

That is why choosing the right roofing contractor matters so much here. The best island firms understand wind uplift calculations, know which fixings resist corrosion, and appreciate how traditional Shetland building forms, such as the low, steeply pitched croft house, behave in exposed locations. This guide highlights the contractors and contractor types that consistently deliver durable results across the isles.

What We Looked For

Our shortlist focuses on reputation within the local community, experience with exposed coastal sites, range of roofing systems offered, compliance with Scottish Building Standards, and the ability to work across the islands rather than only in Lerwick. Membership of recognised bodies, such as the National Federation of Roofing Contractors or the Federation of Master Builders, and registration with schemes like TrustMark, were also treated as positive signals.

The Top 10 Roofing Contractors and Contractor Types

1. DITT Construction

One of the most established building contractors in Shetland, DITT Construction has delivered housing, commercial and public sector projects across the islands. Its scale means it can handle complete roof structures on new builds and large refurbishment schemes, with the project management and health and safety systems that bigger jobs demand. For homeowners commissioning a new house or major extension, DITT is often the first name on the list.

2. Garriock Bros

Garriock Bros is a long-standing Shetland construction business with experience in civil works and building projects. Its familiarity with exposed sites and island logistics makes it a sensible choice for roofs on larger buildings, agricultural sheds and commercial units where structural steel or profiled sheeting is involved.

3. Tulloch Developments

Known locally for residential development, Tulloch Developments brings a house-builder's perspective to roofing: consistent specifications, warranted materials and an emphasis on energy performance. Buyers of new homes benefit from roofs designed with modern insulation standards in mind.

4. Independent Slate and Tile Specialists

Several smaller, family-run roofing teams across Mainland Shetland focus on natural slate and concrete tile. These specialists are ideal for re-roofing older properties in Lerwick's conservation areas and for homeowners who want traditional character combined with modern underlay and breathable membranes.

5. Metal Roofing and Cladding Installers

Standing seam metal and composite insulated panels are increasingly popular in Shetland because they handle wind and rain extremely well. Dedicated metal roofing installers fit these systems on contemporary homes, workshops, fish processing units and agricultural buildings, using marine-grade coatings to resist salt corrosion.

6. Flat Roof and Membrane Specialists

Extensions, garages and many commercial buildings rely on flat roofs. Contractors trained in EPDM rubber, single-ply PVC and warm-deck GRP systems offer seamless, long-lasting coverings that perform far better than older felt roofs in the island climate.

7. Heritage and Croft House Restoration Builders

Restoring a traditional croft house or a listed building requires sensitivity. Heritage-focused builders understand lime mortars, skews, chimney detailing and the planning expectations of the Shetland Islands Council, making them valuable partners for restoration projects in rural townships.

8. North Isles Based Roofing Tradespeople

Homeowners in Yell, Unst and Fetlar face added ferry costs when contractors travel from Mainland. Local tradespeople based in the North Isles can respond faster, reduce travel charges and often have deep knowledge of the specific weather patterns on those islands.

9. Roofline and Rainwater System Fitters

Fascias, soffits, gutters and downpipes are part of the roofing system and often the first parts to fail. Specialist roofline installers fit uPVC and aluminium systems that cope with heavy rainfall and strong winds, protecting walls and foundations from water damage.

10. Solar-Integrated Roofing Installers

With growing interest in renewable energy across Shetland, some contractors now combine re-roofing with integrated solar panels. Planning the two together reduces scaffolding costs and ensures panel fixings do not compromise weatherproofing.

Roofing Trends in Shetland

The biggest trend is a shift toward energy efficiency. Many re-roofing projects now include upgraded loft or rafter insulation, supported by schemes promoted through Home Energy Scotland. Metal roofing continues to grow in popularity, and more homeowners are investing in storm-resistant fixings, mechanical tile clips and upgraded ridge systems after experiencing damage during winter gales.

Another trend is greater planning ahead. Because materials often travel by freight ferry from Aberdeen, reputable contractors schedule orders carefully, and homeowners who book early in spring usually secure better availability before the autumn weather arrives.

How to Choose the Right Roofing Contractor

• Ask about wind exposure: A good contractor will discuss your site's exposure and recommend fixings and materials accordingly.
• Check insurance and accreditation: Public liability insurance and recognised trade memberships are essential.
• Request a written specification: This should cover underlay, battens, fixings, flashings and ventilation.
• Clarify building warrant needs: Larger alterations may require a building warrant from the local authority.
• Look for guarantees: Reliable firms offer workmanship guarantees alongside manufacturer warranties.

Final Thoughts

A roof is your home's first line of defence against the Shetland weather. Whether you choose an established firm like DITT Construction for a new build or a local slate specialist for a sensitive restoration, prioritise experience with exposed sites and a clear, detailed quotation. Investing in quality workmanship today will save significant repair costs in the decades ahead.