All You Need to Know About Roofing in Calgary

editor Roof, Roofing Tips

Comparing Roofing Material

  • Asphalt Shingles

The standard 3-tab Class A inorganic asphalt shingles are the most popular material for roofing in Calgary.

They’re known to be flexible and able to withstand non-severe wind and storms as well as debris. They are also highly resistant to fire due to their flame-retardant fiberglass core.

Their most important feature, however, that’s making them popular is that they’re affordable and have a lifespan that can reach up to 20 years.

There’s a type of asphalt shingles, laminated architectural shingles, that have a heavier base, making them withstand more severe weather conditions.

  • Metal

Metal is known to be a highly durable and fire-resistant roofing material made from recycled metal which makes it eco-friendly.

Going for metal roofing in Calgary, whether it’s aluminum or steel, would mean getting ultimate protection from severe winds and storms, fire, hailstorms, water leaking, and ice or snow.

  • Rubber

Known to be highly resistant, rubber roofing materials are the best for climate resilience.

It can withstand heavy rain, snow, extreme heat, or overall varying temperatures which normally cause cracking, splitting, or rotting in different types of roofing material.

It doesn’t end there, rubber roofing material is also fire resistant, requires little maintenance, and has a lifespan of 30-50 years.

  • Wood Shingles

With the main feature of great insulation, wood shingles used in roofing in Calgary are usually made from red cedar.

Wood shingles have several types and grades according to their impact, fire resistance, and wind resistance.

Their ability to efficiently insulate your home will work in your favor by reducing your energy bills.

  • Slate Shingles

Slate shingles are known to be one of the most long-lasting roofing materials out there with a lifespan of 70-200 years.

They are highly resistant to things like debris from severe winds, hailstorms, wildfires, and extreme heat.

Its high density makes it a good insulator which can lower your energy bills but the thing to look out for with this roofing material is having enough structural support to install it.

  • Clay Tiles

While clay tiles can be great with heat insulation, they can be damaged from things like freezing and thawing as well as heavy hailstorms.

They’re only known to be highly resistant against high winds and fire as well as being water-resistant.

Important Roofing Terms You Should Know

  • Roof sheathing

The roof’s sheathing refers to the material that makes up the bottom part of your roof and functions as a surface to attach water protectant membranes with roofing materials.

A fully sheathed roof is better for withstanding severe winds as well as heavy snowfall.

  • Valley

The valley is where the two ends of a roof’s slopes meet, creating a path downwards that accumulates any rainwater. It’s always better to choose water-resistant materials for the valley to avoid having it damaged.

  • Roof underlayment

This is a part that goes between the shingles and the roof’s sheathing and functions as another layer of protection from weather elements like rain and snow.

  • Eavestroughs and downspouts

Eavestroughs and downspouts are another way of referring to rain gutters and they protect the property from any possible water damage.

Signs You Need a Calgary Roofing Repair Company

How do you know whether you should be on the search for a Calgary roofing service or if your roof is just fine? Here are some signs to look out for:

  • Water leaks are one of the major giveaways that you have a roofing problem. They could mean you have a damaged roof flashing or there’s a hole in the roof among other possible causes
  • Peeled paint is a sign that moisture has taken its toll on your roof, creating grey or yellow discolorations.
  • Sagged roofs are another indicator you need to call a roof repair service since it probably means water or moisture damage is present.
  • Light is not supposed to enter your attic, so if you notice a source of light there, it means there’s a problem with your roof.
  • Having moss growing on your roof is not a good sign at all and should be removed by a professional Calgary roofing repair service.

Protection Tips for your Roofing in Calgary’s Winters

  • Thoroughly clean your gutters, and it would be even better if you get a professional to do it since it’s very time-consuming. This will prevent your roof from accumulating ice and snow throughout winter.
  • Check if downspouts are totally clean and facing away from your home.
  • Check for any patches of missing shingles.
  • Ensure the flashing isn’t rusty or there are areas of missing flashing.
  • If you have a chimney, clean it thoroughly to avoid any hazards.