Innisfil
I'm planning to replace my roof, and I've heard about metal roofing. Is it a good option for areas with heavy snow, and how does it compare to asphalt shingles in terms of durability and maintenance?
Kawarthas and Northumberland
Metal roofing is an excellent option for areas with heavy snow. Its smooth surface allows snow to slide off more easily, reducing the risk of accumulation and potential damage. In terms of durability, metal roofs are highly resilient, often lasting 40-70 years, compared to asphalt shingles, which typically last 20-30 years. Metal is also more resistant to extreme weather, including wind, hail, and ice. Maintenance for metal roofs is minimal, as they don’t warp or crack over time, whereas asphalt shingles may require periodic replacement or repairs due to wear and tear. While metal roofs often have a higher upfront cost, their longevity and low maintenance can make them a cost-effective choice in the long run. Consulting a roofer can help determine if it’s the right fit for your home.
Toronto
I've noticed that my attic gets really hot in the summer, and I've heard that proper roof ventilation can help. How can I tell if my roof has adequate ventilation, and what are my options if it doesn't?
Ottawa Region
Proper roof ventilation is essential for regulating attic temperatures. To assess your ventilation, check if your attic feels excessively hot, has signs of moisture or mold, or if your energy bills are unusually high. Inspect intake and exhaust vents to ensure they’re unblocked and sufficient; typically, you need 1 square foot of vent area for every 300 square feet of attic space. If ventilation is inadequate, options include adding vents, using baffles to prevent blockages, or consulting a roofer for professional advice. Good ventilation improves energy efficiency, prevents roof damage, and keeps your home comfortable.
Edmonton, AB
I just bought a new shed. Its basically just a frame and we're hiring a friend to shingle it for us. Do I need an underlayment?
Ottawa Region
That might be one of the nicest pre-built sheds I've seen in a long time! I bet you're planning to top it off with cedar shingles...and yes, underlayment is essential regardless of the roof type you choose. You've got an impressive shed there, so it’s worth investing an extra $200 to protect it
My roof has 2 levels to it. The high roof has downspout that goes to the lower roof and it looks like it is destroying the lower roofs shingles
Toronto
Very easy fix! run a gutter that runs from where the water comes out on the low roof, to the eaves of the low roof. If you cannot do it yourself, expect to pay for an hour of labor (depending on the difficulty).
Niagra
I took this picture a few months ago and am worried about the state of my roof. It isn't that old and the shingles are bending over the edge. What could be the issue and how can I fix it?
Ottawa Region
George, Shingles bend over the edge like that when there is not a drip-edge installed. A drip-edge is a piece of metal that gets installed before the shingles go on, and round over the edge of the front face of your roof, supporting the shingles that go over top of it. When there is a heavy rain, water enters between the roof deck and front fascia which then causes rot on the wood. I would have a professional come over and let you know what can be done. If your roof isn't that old, the cost will be a fraction of the cost compared to what it may cost you in a decade or so.
We got a new roof in the summer out over our deck. It’s 1/2inch plywood. The roof is unrolling itself. The pitch isn’t steep enough for shingles. Someone told me it is normal and will even put over time but I wanted a second opinion.
Toronto
The short answer. your roof should have been rolled out and left to "rest" for longer before installing it. I've seen worse. Structurally, this will be fine. It's purely aesthetics (unfortunately your windows are right there). A side note: Your neighbors roof has significant gaps in the insulation. That's why half the roof is darker color
I've had a couple quotes and the cheaper quote is only a little less and they say they don't need to install underlay on the entire roof. Only in the valley and 10ft off the eaves. The higher bid company said they have to install on the entire roof cause the slope is only a 4/12. Do you think I am being scammed here or whats the deal?
Ottawa Region
A 4/12 roof is on the cusp of where underlayment should be installed on the entire roof. In general your lower bid is correct. I'm not sure that I've ever seen damage on a roof that could have been saved if underlayment were installed in non-problem areas — valleys and eaves as you mentioned. However, it is pretty standard practice to install it on the entire roof. A standard underlayment is very inexpensive and fast to install, especially on a low-sloped roof like yours.
Bowmanville
I have a front porch that sits in the corner of an L shape house. I want to add a roof covering over top of the porch that so that we can leave things outside and have a nice living space out there. How much would this cost?
Kawarthas and Northumberland
Hi Ganga, It is really hard to give an estimate for something that isn't just a roof. To add an entire covering over your porch involves much much more than just a roofer can do. It requires engineers, foundation footings, framing, etc. With all that out of the way, the short answer is $70/sqft - $150/sqft depending on how nice you want it.
6ix
My roof has begun leaking on the front of the house into our living room. How much can I expect to pay for a new roof?
Toronto
Hi Saad, I recommend you use the Roof Cost Estimator on the website. It is free to use and will give you a good idea of what you're going to pay for a new roof. Your photo doesn't exactly indicate that there is a roof leak. It could be a leaking pipe that just needs replaced. It may also be poor insulation and ventilation in your attic.
Newmarket Ontario
I've been having roofers come out for quotes on a new metal roof in the spring/summer. I've had 3 quotes now and they all are relatively the same price. One company is giving me the option to save $2k on Grace Ice Shield for the entire deck which is over $4k. He said another option is to only use the the Grace hightemp along the penetrations and eaves, then use UDL 30 for the rest of the decking. and thanks for what you do
Kawarthas and Northumberland
Bossman! thanks for the question. Metal roofs are known for their exceptional warranties, often boasting a 50-year no-leak guarantee in Ontario. However, these warranties come with a caveat: you must strictly adhere to the manufacturer's specifications. For instance, if they require Grace Ice & Water Shield for the underlay, you must comply. That said, there are many alternative products that are more affordable and perform just as well as Grace. I would steer clear of Titanium UDL 30, as there are superior options available, such as Laplock PSU or even UDL 50.
Vaughn ontario
Hello. Thanks for taking my question. I bought a new construction house that is still being built. When we went to look at the house yesterday, there were many shingles blown off and the roof just looked like shoddy work. Do you have any thoughts about this?
Toronto
Hey Mik, Business for these home builders never stops! It seems likely that the roof was installed during the winter. The primary issue with winter roof installation is that asphalt shingles cannot properly seal, as they need temperatures of around 10°C to do so. Until then, they may not be able to withstand their wind rating. The builder should have the roofers return to your home and replace any shingles that get blown off throughout the season. This is a common practice and something that roofing companies working in new developments during the winter are prepared for. Your home will be covered by the Ontario Home Warranty. If there are any issues when you take possession of the home, your builder will be legally obligated to make the necessary repairs.
Kingsville
We are going to start building a new house this summer and want to know your thoughts on the pitch of the roof. Our builder said that the maximum we should go is a 8/12 roof. My husband wants to build have the roof at nearly a 45degree angle for aesthetics reasons. What do you think a new home roof pitch should be?
Toronto
a 12/12 pitched roof looks stunning. The problem with them is they require a lot of framing and structure. They are much harder to roof (so maybe choose a superior roof material). The main advantage to steeper roofs compared to a shallow roof like a 4/12 is that they shed water and snow really quickly and easily — ice dams and water getting underneath shingles is less likely of a problem. The most optimal roof pitch is a 6/12 roof. At this pitch, they shed the elements, can be walked, and don't add unnecessary squarefootage to keep cost low. Congrats on building a new home