“The asphalt shingle is still the king (in Ottawa),” says Don Mann of Sanderson Roofing Ottawa. “It looks very nice and it’s reliable.”.
The new generation of fiberglass-based shingles, which is edging out the old, felt-based type, is tough enough that manufacturers have started offering warranties of 30 years or longer. Depending on the house, shingles cost $3 to $4 a square foot including installation. That makes them the cheapest option. Shingling a house with a longer-warranty shingle might cost an extra $200 or $300 but is usually worth the expense.
Architectural shingles, which are thicker than regular shingles and especially popular on larger homes, can give a slate or cedar shake look to a roof without the high cost of those materials. They cost at least 20 per cent more than regular shingles, but are more wind, ice and snow resistant. They can be subject to algae growth on the north side of the house, so ask your roofer about algae-resistant products.
At $5 to $12 a square foot, metal roofs are a more expensive alternative to shingles. Available in farmhouse-style ribbed panels or stamped to resemble tile or even shingles, metal roofing comes in a range of colours and is often guaranteed for 40 to 50 years
Installing a durable roof by a reputable roofing contractor is #1 in preventing winter roof damage. Another beneficial product to protect your roof during the winter months is an ice-and-water shield that extends at least six feet up the roof from its edge. The shield prevents melted snow and ice to pool along the roof’s edge causing a dam and eventual attic penetration.
DIY roof work is not advised as it is extremely dangerous to work at any high slope. Ask Sanderson Roofing about roof maintenance to keep your eavestroughs free of leaves or debris, and roof inspections after a severe storm. These pro-active actions can lengthen the life of your roof and prevent costly damage.
There are lots of roofing options available for Ottawa area homeowners including asphalt shingles, metal, cedar shakes, concrete tile, and slate. Ask your roofing contractor which roofing material will best suit your budget, design considerations, and size of project.
This article was reported by the OttawaCitizen.com in September, 2011. They are a great news source for the citizens to stay in the loop about roofing news in the Ottawa area.