Keeping your Calgary home or business safe is crucial. With Calgary’s brutal winters and unpredictable weather, a solid roof is essential for long-term protection.
With over 25 years of experience and the highest quality materials, reliability is our specialty at Angel’s Roofing. Our dedication to quality and service guarantees your peace of mind.
Call or request a free estimate to get started today.
Calgary Roof Replacement Signs
Knowing when it is time to replace your roof is an important part of home ownership. Calgary’s special blend of weather, with its heavy snowfalls, ice buildup, and crazy temperature swings, can take a toll on roofs. Below are essential signs that indicate it may be time to consider a roof replacement:
- Damaged Shingles: Cracked, curled, or missing shingles are clear signs of deterioration. Bald patches, where the protective granules have worn off, are particularly worrisome, as they leave shingles exposed to additional harm. Shaded areas of the roof, which sometimes may be susceptible to moss or algae growth, can exacerbate these problems.
- Sagging Rooflines: A sagging roofline typically signals structural weaknesses, which could lead to collapse if ignored. This can happen as a result of extended moisture exposure or hidden damage to the roof’s support structure.
- Granule Loss: Excessive granules in gutters or runoff are a sign of aging asphalt shingles. Granules protect shingles from UV rays, and their loss is a major life span killer of roofs.
- Water Damage: Brown, yellow, or grey stains on ceilings or walls often indicate a leaking roof. These leaks can cause mold, ruining the indoor air and structure.
- Ice Dams and Gutters: Ice dams forming during Calgary’s cold winters can damage shingles and allow water to seep underneath. When gutters are compromised, this causes water to pool and place further strain on the roof.
- Roof Age: Most roofs in Calgary last 20 to 25 years. If you’re approaching this range, replacement should be high on your agenda to prevent further extensive damage.
Routine inspections are key to catching these problems early. Although certain damage is repairable, if the issues are too extensive, having a reliable roof replacement becomes a must.
Calgary’s Weather Impact
Calgary’s unusually difficult weather for roofs. From blistering hot days to icy snowstorms, Calgary’s unique climate can put a burden on even the most meticulous of roofs. Knowing these impacts can assist homeowners in making a wise roof replacement decision.
- Snow and Ice Dams Calgary’s winters deliver lots of snow, sometimes landing on our roofs and causing too much weight. Over time, this weight can cause structural strain or roof collapses, especially for older or improperly maintained roofs. Ice dams are a common concern. These develop when snow melts on warmer roof surfaces, refreezes along the edge, and obstructs drainage. This water can enter under shingles, causing not only rot but also water seepage and even mould.
- Strong winds and storm damage. With all those winds, including Chinook winds, those shingles can become loosened, lifted, or blown away. Over time, this leaves roofs susceptible to leaks and damage. Wind-driven debris, such as tree branches, can puncture or crack roofs, necessitating immediate care. Hailstorms, another frequent occurrence in Calgary, can dent or destroy roofing materials, making the case for durable, impact-resistant products.
- Dramatic Temperature Changes Calgary’s weather is notorious for drastic temperature swings, and thermal shocks rank as a top cause of roof damage. Fast expansion and contraction of roofing materials can cause cracks, compromising the roof’s integrity and reducing its lifespan.
These swings lead to ‘attic rain,’ where condensation drips inside attics, causing water damage, insulation problems, and possibly mould.
Choosing Your Next Roof
Choosing your next roof for your Calgary home is a balancing act between functionality, aesthetics, and durability, particularly in this city’s punishing weather. Here are some things to keep in mind when making your decision.
Roofing Materials and Characteristics
Various roofing materials provide different advantages. Asphalt shingles are a favorite here in Calgary, thanks to their affordability. Metal roofs are a great option for energy efficiency and long-term durability. Tile roofs, while heavier and pricier, provide incredible durability and timeless style.
Energy Efficiency for Calgary’s Climate
Calgary is notorious for its temperature fluctuations, ranging from freezing winters to balmy summers. Energy-efficient roofing, like metal roofs with reflective coatings, can cut cooling costs by reflecting heat.
Insulation and underlayment are equally important to retaining a comfortable temperature indoors.
Weather-Resistant Options
With Calgary’s exposure to hail, snow, and strong winds, place emphasis on materials engineered to resist these forces. Impact-resistant shingles and metal roofs make great choices for durability and protection.
Make sure it’s installed right, so it doesn’t leak or blow off.
Colors and Styles
Select colors and styles that complement your home’s architecture. Neutral hues such as grey and brown coordinate with most exteriors, and the darker colors help to retain heat in the winter.
Just make sure your selected material suits your home’s aesthetic as well, without sacrificing practicality.
The Replacement Process
Roof replacement in Calgary follows a structured process to ensure quality and compliance with local standards. Below is a detailed breakdown of the key steps involved:
Preparing and Permits
Before they begin, the Calgary roofers put your property protection first. Now that’s all fun stuff, like scaffolding, covering plants, and safety.
Getting the required building permits is essential to adhere to Calgary’s regulations, preventing possible penalties or holdups along the way.
Material Removal and Inspection
The initial action, on your part, means taking off old shingles and torn materials. This process reveals the wood decking, offering roofers an opportunity to examine the structure for rot, mold, or damage.
Fixing these problems up front guarantees the new roof a solid base.
Installation Process
The new roof is applied from the bottom up. It has a drip edge – a metal piece bent at 90 degrees to prevent water damage at the edges.
Other components, such as step flashing, counter flashing, ridge vents, and ridge capping may be added to provide increased durability and ventilation.
Daily Clean-Up
Calgary professionals throughout the project keep things clean with daily site clean-ups. Dispose of your old materials in a way that causes the least disruption to your property and neighbors.
Final Inspections and Settling
After installation, an inspection ensures the roof’s integrity. In the coming weeks, you might notice some bumps or waves as the materials settle, which is standard for new roofs.
Finding a Calgary Contractor
A new roof is a big investment, and locating the perfect Calgary contractor as well. Whether it’s residential or commercial properties, opting for the right expert can mean all the difference in cost, durability and long-term satisfaction.
Key Factors to Consider
Before you hire, as a homeowner, ensure that the contractor has all the relevant certifications, insurance, and safety standards. Below is a table outlining the essential qualifications and certifications to look for:
| Certification/Requirement | Importance |
| Alberta Roofing Contractors Association (ARCA) membership | Ensures adherence to industry standards and best practices. |
| Liability insurance | Protects homeowners from financial risks during the project. |
| Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) coverage | Guarantees worker safety and compliance with provincial laws. |
| Manufacturer certifications | Indicates the contractor is trained to install specific roofing systems. |
Good contractors give you good, detailed estimates. These should detail expenses, supplies, and schedules for transparency. For example, residential roof replacements in Calgary vary from $8,000 to $46,000, averaging at $12,800, and commercial repairs come in at about $9,500.
Asking for an itemized quote prevents surprises and helps make sure you’re on the same page as your budget. Seasoned contractors even give you warranties on materials and workmanship. This is especially invaluable because Calgary’s brutal weather can result in situations such as water pooling, the culprit behind more than 80% of roof repairs.
Typical indicators of roof damage are cracked or missing shingles, granule-filled gutters, and water pooling. When you face these issues with a professional contractor, you’re at the doorstep of long-lasting peace of mind.
Most importantly, select a contractor who meets your schedule, particularly for emergency fixes. Flexibility is important, as is their capacity to inspect your roof and determine if it needs repairs or a complete replacement.
Beyond The Obvious Costs
Roof replacement in Calgary is about more than materials and labour costs. There are several costs beyond the obvious, and figuring them out can help homeowners and businesses make smart choices.
- Material Costs: The type of roofing material significantly impacts the budget. Asphalt shingles are generally less expensive, with slate, metal, or green roofs being upscale options. They provide different degrees of durability, looks and maintenance requirements. Metal roofs might be more expensive initially, but they don’t need to be replaced as often in Calgary’s brutal weather.
- Labour and Complexity: Roofs with steep slopes or intricate designs take more time and skill to replace, driving up labour costs. Likewise, if the frame needs reinforcement for heavier fabrics, it will be more expensive.
- Insulation and Ventilation Upgrades: Inadequate ventilation can shorten a roof’s lifespan due to moisture and heat buildup. Enhancing ventilation or insulation during replacement enhances energy efficiency, reducing utility bills and long-term expenses. This is particularly important in Calgary, when temperatures are prone to drastic swings.
- Environmental Factors: Local weather conditions like hailstorms and intense sun exposure impact roofing choices and lifespan. Calgary’s building codes and regulations can mandate particular material or installation standards, which impact costs as well.
- Aesthetic and Property Value: Investing in visually appealing materials can enhance curb appeal and increase property value. For example, re-roofing with premium shingles or installing a green roof adds both curb appeal and eco-chic.
- Long-Term Savings: High-quality materials, while pricier initially, often reduce maintenance and replacement frequency. Over time, these savings can help balance out the initial investment, particularly in Calgary’s tough climate.
Conclusion
A sturdy, dependable roof is a necessity for Calgary residences and commercial spaces in our unpredictable climate. At Angel’s Roofing, we know how critical it is to have a roof that withstands brutal winters, intense winds, and summer thunderstorms. With years of experience, premium materials, and expert craftsmanship, we’re here to make your roof replacement hassle-free.
So if you’re looking to upgrade for durability or you’ve been hit by storms, our team is prepared to assist! We emphasize quality, safety, and customer service throughout each phase.
Contact us today for a free quote or to discuss your roofing requirements! Shield your home with a roof made to endure. So let’s begin!
