Smart Questions to Ask Before You Purchase a New Roof in Canada
After a long, challenging winter, many Canadian homeowners find themselves thinking, “It’s finally time for a new roof!” Replacing your roof is a significant investment, and because every project is unique, asking your roofing contractor the right questions upfront is crucial. These questions will go a long way toward ensuring you choose a roof you’ll love and that performs reliably for decades, especially with our unique Canadian climate in mind.
1. What type of roof will provide the best protection for my home in Canadian conditions?
In Canada, we certainly know how to “plan for the worst” when it comes to weather! From heavy snow loads and ice storms to powerful winds, hail, and torrential rain, our homes face a lot. When planning your re-roofing project, consider the specific hazards of your region in BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario or the Atlantic. Ensure your roof is built to withstand them all.
Remember to discuss necessary accessories like snow guards (essential for metal roofs in snowy regions), heavy-duty gutters, and waterproof underlayment. These components are critical for avoiding hassles and additional costs down the line, especially with our freeze-thaw cycles.
While strong roofing materials like slate and clay offer durability, their significant weight might necessitate costly additional reinforcement of your roof’s underlying structure. When you factor in Canada’s substantial snow and ice loads, that weight can increase dramatically. Homeowners seeking a similar, elegant appearance without the structural burden should absolutely consider metal roofing from Westman Steel. Steel provides superior strength under extreme conditions while being much lighter per square foot, so additional structural reinforcements are rarely required.
2. How can I reduce the amount of ongoing maintenance required for my new roof?
Let’s be honest, no one wants to spend their weekends on roof maintenance, especially after a Canadian winter! Traditional materials like asphalt, cedar shake, and even some clay tiles are susceptible to issues like moss, algae, and fungus growth. This is particularly true in Canada’s more humid or wet climates, such as coastal BC or parts of Ontario. These issues can be costly and environmentally hazardous to address, and if left untreated, they can cause damage and shorten your roof’s lifespan.
Choose low-maintenance, worry-free Steel roofing from Westman Steel. Our pre-painted steel roofs typically require nothing more than a simple, gentle solution of plain soap and water to stay looking great. Imagine less time on a ladder and more time enjoying your home!
3. How can I ensure performance and dependability, especially for Canada's climate?
When investing in a new roof, warranties both material and labour are incredibly important. Make sure your chosen a roof material that is rated for fire and hail resistance, as well as energy efficiency, by independent, credible sources. In Canada, look for certifications that reflect our specific building codes and performance standards.
Roofs with a Class A fire rating provide immense peace of mind, particularly in areas prone to wildfires (like parts of BC and Alberta) or simply for maximizing safety. A high-quality roof also plays a crucial role in maximizing energy efficiency, keeping your home warmer in our cold winters and cooler during hot summers. For ongoing savings and protection, be sure to ask your installer about proper insulation and underlayment that meet or exceed regional Canadian building codes.
4. What is the manufacturer’s name, and what is their track record in Canada?
To get a roof that will truly last and provide worry-free performance for many years, invest in quality. Understand that the lowest bid is not always the best deal, especially for a critical component like your roof. Do your research: learn more about the proposed material, where it is sourced, and whether the manufacturer has a solid reputation and will stand behind their products for decades. Make certain that they use high-quality manufacturing techniques and materials.
For example, Westman Steel uses high-tech paint systems and that make a significant difference in the durability, performance, and ongoing maintenance of a metal roof. Inquire with your retailer or contractor for more information and confirmation on the material specifications and installation methods being proposed. Choosing a Canadian manufacturer like Westman Steel means you’re getting products designed for our climate, with local support.