Roof Replacement 101
We find that most homeowners have plenty of questions about their roof. However, they don’t always know where to get the answers they need.
Below, you will find answers to some of the most common concerns homeowners have! Scroll the page or check out the other sections of the Learning Centre to find out what you need!
Roof replacement timing varies based on several factors, including the type of roofing material, climate, and the roof’s exposure to harsh weather conditions. For instance, in areas like the Okanagan Valley, where many homeowners have shingle roofing systems, a high-quality roof installation typically lasts between 15 to 25 years before requiring a full replacement.
While storms and harsh weather may necessitate some repairs over time, a well-installed roof should remain effective as long as there aren’t any manufacturing defects in the materials. Factors such as the pitch of the roof, exposure to high winds, and direct sun can all impact the lifespan of your roof.
Regular maintenance and inspections will help extend the life of your roof, but eventually, if your shingles start showing signs of wear (like curling, missing shingles, or leaks), it may be time to consider a replacement. Keep in mind that roofs made from different materials—like metal, tile, or slate can last significantly longer than asphalt shingles, sometimes up to 40 years or more.
There are several signs that indicate your roof may need to be replaced. If you notice any of the following, it’s a good idea to have a professional roofing contractor assess your roof:
Broken, Cracked, or Curling Shingles: Shingles that are cracked, curled at the edges, broken or showing loss of lamination are signs of wear. These issues can lead to water infiltration and further damage to the roof.
For the most part the best time to replace your roof is when you need a new roof.
There are two major reasons why:
In the Okanagan Valley, the typical temperature and weather conditions are generally within the range recommended by manufacturers for roofing installations. Most manufacturers specify that shingles can be installed safely when temperatures are between 4 and 27 degrees celsius.
If temperatures fall outside this range, roofing projects may be delayed by a day or two. However, in the Okanagan region, temperature variations are unlikely to have a significant impact on the overall project timeline as specialized instructions are available from the manufacturer for installation outside of these temperature ranges.
When planning a roofing project, it’s important to understand the various components that make up your roofing system. Knowing how each part works together not only gives you a clearer picture of the roofing process but also helps you recognize factors that can influence overall costs. Each element of your roof plays a crucial role in protecting your home, and when properly installed, they ensure your home stays secure and well-protected from the elements.
These components typically include the roofing material, underlayment, flashing, vents, and the structure beneath it all. While all of these parts are necessary for the integrity of the roof, it’s essential to remember that any one of them can fail if not installed with attention to detail and precision.
Understanding these components not only helps you make informed decisions but also allows you to better understand how each part contributes to your roof’s effectiveness. When all components are properly installed, your roof will function cohesively to safeguard your home. However, when even one part is overlooked or poorly installed, it can lead to premature wear and potentially costly repairs in the future.
Roof Decking is the first layer of the roofing system and provides the structure for the rest of the components. It sits underneath the underlayment and roofing material on a roof. There are 3 common kinds of roof decking: dimensional lumber, OSB, and plywood material. The roof deck is what your roofing material is nailed to.
Drip Edge is installed on the perimeter of your roof. Its job is to redirect or wick water away from the home to prevent water from rolling underneath your shingles. The reason this is so important is because water can damage the fascia and other parts of your home.
Underlayment provides the last layer of defence against the elements on your home residing underneath the shingles. While tar paper is still allowed by code in British Columbia, most roofing contractors recommend synthetic underlayment.
Ice & Water Shield is installed on the most vulnerable parts of a roof for added protection such as your eaves, valleys and around roof penetrations. This is a heat activated self adhesive material, so it adheres directly to the roof deck and when a nail is installed through this material, it will seal around each nail.
Metal flashing is typically installed along walls, in valleys and around skylights & chimneys to provide the needed protection for these areas.
Some types of metal flashing include: Step flashing, wall flashing, valley flashing & counter flashing.
Shingles are the first and most important layer of defence of your roofing system. There are 4 types of asphalt shingles: three-tab shingles, t-lock shingles, architectural shingles, and designer shingles. The most common shingle type in the Okanagan is architectural.
Ridge cap shingles are used on the hip and ridge lines of your roof to protect and redirect water from these areas they also help to aesthetically ease the transition from different slopes.
Penetrations such as exhaust fans for bathrooms and kitchens as well as plumbing pipes are high risk areas for leaks and damage. Specialized flashings for these areas are therefore used to prevent water and moisture ingress.
Roof Ventilation is a vitally important component of a high quality roofing system often being the difference between a roof prematurely failing and not. It is achieved typically by one of two systems: On Ridge & Off Ridge ventilation.
You can also make a choice between Static Ventilation which relies on the natural physics of hot air to rise or Electric Ventilation which uses a built in powered fan to draw air and moisture out of the attic space.
Discussing Styles & Colors: You can choose the style, texture, and color of the shingles or roofing material to match your home’s aesthetic.
Estimate and Contract: The roofing contractor will provide an estimate that outlines the cost of materials, labor, and any other potential fees (e.g., disposal of old materials). Once you agree on the details, you’ll sign a contract and your contractor will schedule the start date for the reroofing project.
Removing Old Roof: The old shingles or roofing material are stripped off the roof. This step can be messy and noisy, but it’s necessary to inspect the roof deck for any underlying damage that may need repairs.
Installing Underlayment: A new underlayment (such as ice & water shield and synthetic material) will be installed to provide an additional layer of protection against water penetration.
Adding Flashing and Vents: Flashing will be installed around chimneys, valleys, walls and other areas where water can potentially seep in. Vents will also be installed to ensure proper air circulation in the attic.
Sealing Edges: The edges and joints of material like valley flashing will be properly sealed to prevent water from entering.
Cleanup: After the job is done, the crew will clean up any debris from the site, including nails, roofing material scraps, and any protective coverings. They’ll make sure your yard and driveway are clear.
Review of Work & Payment: Once everything is confirmed to your satisfaction, you’ll settle the final payment as agreed upon with your contractor.
The whole reroofing process typically takes anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the size of the house, the complexity of the roof, new system chosen and weather conditions.