Residential Roofing Services Ontario | Complete Home Roofing Solutions
Professional residential roofing services across Ontario. Complete roof replacement, repairs, inspections, and maintenance for single-family homes, townhouses, and condos. Licensed contractors with warranties.
Complete Residential Roofing Solutions
Your home is your biggest investment. The roof protecting it takes a beating every single day from Ontario's harsh weather.
We connect homeowners across Ontario with experienced residential roofing contractors who get what it takes to protect your home from everything our climate throws at it. Heavy snow that builds up for months. Ice dams that form when temperatures bounce above and below freezing. Summer heat that can crack and blister shingles. And those surprise hailstorms that seem to come out of nowhere.
Residential roofing isn't the same as commercial work. Your home needs a contractor who cares about how it looks from the street. Who won't turn your driveway into a disaster zone for weeks. Who can explain what's happening in plain English, not construction jargon. These specialists know that your family still needs to live there while work happens, and they plan around that reality.
What Makes Residential Roofing Different
Working on homes requires a different mindset than commercial projects. Your roof affects your homes curb appeal and resale value in ways a flat commercial roof never will. Most homeowners have a budget and need clear pricing up front, not surprise costs halfway through. If you live in a neighborhood with an HOA, your contractor needs to know how to navigate those approval processes.
Then there's scheduling. Commercial crews can work all night if needed. Residential projects happen during normal hours because your kids need to sleep and your neighbors will complain if crews show up at 6 AM on Saturday. Good residential roofers get this. They protect your landscaping, keep job sites clean, and actually return your calls.
You also need help with things commercial property managers don't deal with. Like understanding your warranty options. Or figuring out if your homeowner's insurance will cover storm damage. Or knowing whether that leak in your bedroom ceiling means you need a $500 repair or a $15,000 replacement.
Our Residential Roofing Network
We work exclusively with contractors who focus on residential projects, not companies that mainly do commercial work and take on occasional home jobs as side projects. These specialists maintain proper licensing and insurance for Ontario residential work, which protects you if anything goes wrong.
Every contractor in our network provides transparent written estimates that break down exactly what you're paying for. No vague line items or surprise charges later. They offer real warranties on both materials and workmanship because they stand behind what they install. And when you call with a question six months after the job is done, they actually pick up the phone.
You get contractors who respect your property. They lay down tarps to protect your landscaping. They use magnetic sweeps to pick up every nail. They don't leave a mess for you to clean up after they drive away. Basic stuff, but you'd be surprised how many roofers skip these steps.
Our Residential Roofing Services
Complete Roof Replacement
When your roof reaches the end of its life, a full replacement gives you a fresh start with decades of protection ahead. The crew strips off everything down to the deck, which lets them spot and fix any rot or damage hiding underneath. Then they install new underlayment and ice barriers (mandatory in Ontario to handle our freeze-thaw cycles), followed by your choice of shingles or metal roofing.
Fresh flashing goes around chimneys and valleys where leaks love to start. New vents get installed or old ones replaced. The crew cleans up thoroughly because finding nails in your yard six months later isn't acceptable. Finally, they walk you through the finished work and register your warranty.
Typical projects: $10,000-$25,000 | 1-3 days | 20-50+ year lifespan
Roof Repair Services
Not every problem needs a full replacement. Sometimes you just need targeted fixes to buy yourself more years. Wind rips off a few shingles during a storm. Flashing around your chimney starts leaking. A valley develops a weak spot where water pools.
Good contractors can handle these repairs without selling you a whole new roof when you don't need one. They replace damaged shingles, seal up flashing problems, and fix valleys before small issues turn into major water damage inside your home. Emergency tarping happens same-day when a storm leaves your roof exposed. Ice dam damage from brutal Ontario winters gets addressed before your ceilings start staining.
Typical projects: $300-$3,000 | Same day to 1 day | Varies by repair
Roof Inspections
You can't see most roof problems from the ground. A professional inspection catches issues early when they're cheap to fix instead of waiting until water starts dripping through your ceiling.
Inspectors check 50+ points on your roof and in your attic. They take photos of every concern and give you a written report that explains what's wrong, how urgent it is, and roughly what fixing it will cost. You'll learn how many years your roof has left and whether you should start budgeting for replacement or just need minor repairs.
These inspections work great before buying a home (so you know what you're getting into) or before listing one for sale (so you can fix problems before buyers find them and freak out). Insurance companies often want documentation after storms, and a detailed inspection gives you exactly what they need.
Typical service: $200-$400 | 1-2 hours | Annual recommended
Preventative Maintenance
Most roofs fail earlier than they should because nobody looked at them until something went wrong. Maintenance plans flip that script. A crew inspects your roof twice yearly, catches problems while they're small, cleans your gutters so water drains properly, and treats any moss or algae before it eats through your shingles.
They handle minor repairs right away instead of scheduling a callback. They check that your ventilation still works correctly. And they document everything so your warranty stays valid. The cost runs $300-$600 per year, which sounds like money until you realize it can extend your roof's life by 20-30 percent. On a $15,000 roof, that saves you thousands.
Typical plans: $300-$600/year | Twice yearly | Extends roof life 20-30%
Storm Damage Assessment
After a major storm rolls through, you need to know if your roof got damaged and whether your insurance will cover it. Storm damage contractors document everything with detailed photos and notes that insurance adjusters actually accept.
They handle emergency repairs immediately so water can't get in while you wait for the insurance company to make decisions. Then they give you detailed estimates for permanent fixes and often communicate directly with your insurer to keep things moving. Most offer this service free when you file a claim because they know they'll likely get the repair or replacement work.
Typical service: Free with insurance claim | 2-4 hours | Varies
Attic Ventilation Services
Your attic needs to breathe. Without proper airflow, heat and moisture build up and slowly destroy your roof from underneath. In summer, trapped heat bakes your shingles. In winter, warm air melts snow on your roof which refreezes at the edges and creates ice dams.
Ventilation specialists calculate exactly how much airflow your attic needs, then install ridge vents, soffit vents, or gable vents to hit that target. Some homes need powered fans to move enough air. They coordinate with insulation so air can flow without losing energy efficiency. Get this right and your roof lasts years longer while your energy bills drop.
Typical projects: $500-$2,500 | 1 day | Critical for roof longevity
Home Types We Serve
Single-Family Detached Homes
This is what we do most. Every architectural style from ranch to colonial to contemporary. Some homes have simple roofs that take a day to replace. Others have complex designs with multiple levels, dormers, and valleys that require careful planning and skilled crews.
You get complete control over materials and colors since there's no HOA telling you what you can and can't do. Want metal instead of shingles? Go for it. Like that darker color? Nobody needs to approve it but you.
Typical costs: $10,000-$25,000+ depending on size and materials
Townhouses and Row Homes
Connected homes add complications. Your HOA probably requires you to match materials and colors with adjacent units so the row looks consistent. The shared walls need special flashing details to prevent leaks between units. And getting equipment to your roof might mean coordinating access through a neighbors property.
Sometimes your HOA coordinates replacement for the entire row at once, which simplifies things. Other times you're on your own but still need board approval before starting. Either way, you need contractors who know how to navigate these requirements without delays.
Typical costs: $6,000-$15,000 | Often HOA-coordinated
Semi-Detached Homes
Your duplex has two separate roofing sections, but that shared center wall creates a critical flashing point where leaks develop if the work isn't done right. Some neighbors coordinate replacement together to handle that shared wall properly and sometimes save money buying materials in bulk. Others replace independently when their side needs it.
Property lines matter here. The crew needs clear access without trespassing, and sometimes that means creative equipment positioning. Good contractors figure this out before starting work, not halfway through the job.
Typical costs: $7,000-$18,000 per unit
Condominiums (Private Responsibility)
Most condos have shared roofs managed by the corporation. But townhouse-style condos and some end units put roof responsibility on individual owners. You pay for repairs and replacement yourself, but the condo board still controls what materials you can use and what colors are allowed.
Getting approval takes time. Submit your proposal early and expect the board to ask questions or request specific brands or styles that match the complex aesthetic. Contractors experienced with condo work know what boards typically require and can guide you through the approval process.
Typical costs: $5,000-$12,000 | Requires condo approval
Heritage and Historic Homes
Older homes in heritage districts need contractors who respect the property's character. You can't just slap standard shingles on a Victorian home with original cedar shake. The work needs to maintain historic appearance while meeting modern code requirements.
Heritage designations often require specific materials or styles. Finding these materials takes time and costs more. The architectural details are complex. And older homes sometimes have structural issues that need addressing before the roof work even starts. Not every roofer can handle this work properly.
Typical costs: $12,000-$35,000+ | Requires specialized expertise
Cottages and Seasonal Homes
Your cottage up north presents different challenges than suburban homes. Remote locations mean crews travel farther and might charge travel time. Access roads might not handle heavy equipment after spring thaw or during wet periods. Weather windows are shorter when you're only there seasonally.
But you also have more flexibility. If the crew needs an extra day because of weather, it probably doesn't disrupt your life since you're not living there year-round. Material selection can factor in that the building sits empty all winter. And scheduling can happen around your vacation plans rather than getting squeezed between other commitments.
Typical costs: $8,000-$20,000 | Seasonal scheduling optimal
Roofing Materials for Ontario Homes
Asphalt Shingles (85% of Ontario Homes)
Walk down any Ontario street and you'll see asphalt shingles on most roofs. They're affordable, contractors know how to install them, and they handle our climate reasonably well. You get three tiers to choose from.
3-Tab Shingles are the budget option at $5-$7 per square foot installed. They last 15-20 years if the weather cooperates and you're diligent with maintenance. Perfect for rental properties or when you need a roof that works without breaking the bank. The flat, uniform look won't win design awards, but it gets the job done. Wind resistance is their weak point, and Ontario storms can be rough.
Architectural Shingles hit the sweet spot for most homeowners. At $6-$9 per square foot, they're not cheap but not outrageous either. The dimensional look adds real curb appeal, and the 25-30 year lifespan means you're probably only doing this once while you own the home. Better wind ratings matter in Ontario where sudden storms blow through. Manufacturers back these with solid warranties because they rarely fail prematurely.
Designer Shingles cost $8-$12 per square foot but last 30-50 years and some brands offer lifetime warranties. High-end homes use these when aesthetics matter as much as performance. They mimic slate or cedar shake without the weight or maintenance headaches. Installation requires certified crews who know the product's specific requirements. Worth it if you're planning to stay long-term and want your roof to look as good as the rest of your property.
Metal Roofing (Growing Popularity)
More Ontario homeowners are choosing metal every year. The upfront cost stings, but the math works when you factor in that you'll never replace it again. Metal handles our climate better than anything else out there.
Steel roofing runs $13-$28 per square foot depending on the profile and finish. It lasts 40-70 years easily. Snow slides right off instead of building up and stressing your structure. Ice dams become much less of a problem. Summer heat reflects instead of baking your attic. And if fire ever breaks out, your roof won't burn.
The catch? Finding good installers takes more work than finding shingle crews. And your neighbors might not love the look initially, though metal designs have gotten much better in recent years. Contemporary homes pull off metal roofing naturally. Traditional styles need careful product selection to avoid looking out of place.
Aluminum roofing costs a bit more ($15-$25 per square foot) but never rusts, which matters in high-humidity areas or near water. It's lighter than steel, which helps if your structure can't handle much weight. The tradeoff is that aluminum dents more easily from hail, and Ontario does get occasional hailstorms. Finding experienced aluminum installers is even harder than finding steel crews.
Cedar Shakes and Shingles (Premium Natural)
Cedar gives you that gorgeous natural wood look that ages into silver-gray character. At $15-$25 per square foot, it's a premium choice that makes sense for heritage homes or properties with rustic aesthetics. The wood insulates naturally, keeping homes cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
But cedar demands regular maintenance. You need to treat it every few years to prevent rot. Moss loves to grow on it, especially in shaded areas. And fire risk is real, so you'll want fire-treated cedar (which costs more and is required in many areas). With proper care, cedar lasts 25-30 years. Neglect it and you'll be replacing sections in 15.
Slate Roofing (Premium Luxury)
Slate costs $30-$42 per square foot, which makes people gasp. Then you learn it lasts 75-150 years and suddenly the math changes. Your great-grandchildren might still be using the same roof you install today.
Historic homes and luxury properties use slate because nothing else looks quite like it. The material is essentially stone, so it can't burn, rot, or wear out from weather. But it's extremely heavy, which means you need a structural engineer to verify your home can support the weight. And installation requires genuine specialists who understand how to work with slate properly. This isn't a DIY or budget contractor project.
Synthetic Materials (Modern Innovation)
Modern composites try to give you the look of slate or cedar at lower cost and weight. Prices run $7-$12 per square foot with 30-50 year lifespans. The materials are engineered for consistency, so you don't get the natural variation (and natural flaws) of real wood or stone.
Maintenance is minimal compared to natural materials. Quality varies significantly by manufacturer though, so research brands carefully and check warranty terms. The technology is relatively new compared to centuries-old slate or traditional shingles, which means we have less long-term data on how these products age over 40+ years in Ontario conditions.
Residential vs Commercial Roofing
Why Residential Expertise Matters
Commercial and residential roofing are completely different specialties that happen to work on the same part of a building. The materials are different. Residential roofs slope and use shingles or metal panels. Commercial roofs are usually flat or low-slope with membrane systems like TPO or EPDM.
The mindset is different too. Residential roofing focuses on how your home looks from the street because curb appeal affects property value. The roof needs to match your homes architectural style. Commercial roofing focuses on functionality, drainage, and accommodating HVAC equipment. Nobody cares if a big box store roof looks pretty.
Scale matters. A typical home roof runs 1,500-3,500 square feet and takes 1-3 days to replace. Commercial projects cover 10,000 to 100,000+ square feet and take weeks or months. The equipment, crews, and logistics are totally different.
Regulatory requirements split along different lines. Home projects need local building permits and maybe HOA approval. Commercial projects deal with commercial building codes, fire regulations, accessibility requirements, and environmental compliance. Different inspectors, different rules, different documentation.
Warranty structures don't overlap either. Residential warranties cover materials and workmanship, usually transfer to new homeowners when you sell, and protect your investment long-term. Commercial warranties are often non-transferable, run shorter terms, and cover different things because the usage patterns and risks are different.
Then there's the client relationship. Residential contractors work directly with you, the homeowner. They explain things in plain language. They schedule around your familys life. They keep sites safe for kids and pets. Commercial contractors communicate with property managers and facility directors. Business continuity matters more than whether the noise bothers anyone.
This is why you want a residential specialist when your home needs roofing work. They understand homeowner priorities, work within realistic residential budgets, explain things without jargon, and maintain cleaner work sites because families live there. They offer warranties and financing structures that make sense for homeowners, not business property managers.
Our Residential Roofing Process
Step 1: Initial Consultation (Free)
Everything starts with a convenient on-site visit where a contractor looks at your roof, discusses what concerns you have, and listens to your goals and budget. They answer your questions without pressure. This takes 30-60 minutes.
Come prepared to share any known problems, HOA requirements if you have them, what style or colors you prefer, and when you need the work done. The more information you provide, the more accurate your proposal will be.
Step 2: Detailed Inspection and Proposal
After the initial visit, the contractor does a thorough inspection of your roof and attic, takes measurements, and photographs problem areas. They put together a detailed written proposal with multiple material options and pricing. You also get material samples so you can see and feel what you're choosing.
Expect the proposal within 2-3 business days. Then you review it, ask questions about anything unclear, and compare it against other quotes you're getting. Take your time with this step.
Step 3: Material Selection and Scheduling
Once you decide on a contractor, you'll finalize material choices and pick exact colors. You sign the contract after reviewing warranty terms carefully. The contractor schedules your installation date, orders materials, and handles permit applications with your municipality.
Your job is making those final decisions, reading the contract thoroughly before signing, and preparing your property for work. This whole phase typically takes 1-2 weeks from when you approve the project to when crews show up.
Step 4: Pre-Installation Preparation
Right before installation starts, the contractor confirms the date and crew assignment. Materials get delivered to your property. The crew sets up safety measures and protective covering for your landscaping. The crew leader introduces themselves so you know who's in charge.
You need to clear driveway access for equipment, move vehicles out of the way, secure pets indoors, and give your neighbors a heads up about the noise. This happens the day before or morning of installation.
Step 5: Installation
The actual work starts with tearing off old roofing if you're doing a replacement. The crew inspects your roof deck and repairs any rot or damage they find. Then they install new underlayment and ice barriers, followed by your new roofing material. Fresh flashing goes around chimneys, vents, and valleys. The crew cleans up debris daily and gives you progress updates. Quality checks happen throughout the day.
Stay available for questions but keep pets and kids away from the work area. Most residential projects take 1-3 days depending on size and complexity.
Step 6: Final Inspection and Cleanup
When installation finishes, the crew does a complete final inspection. They run magnetic sweeps to pick up any nails from your yard. All debris gets removed and the site gets cleaned thoroughly. Then they walk you through the finished work, explain your warranty, and give you care instructions. If your municipality requires it, a building inspector does a final approval.
This is your chance to ask remaining questions and point out any concerns. It happens at the end of the final day.
Step 7: Warranty Registration and Follow-Up
After the project wraps up, the contractor registers your manufacturer warranty and provides all the documentation. They schedule a follow-up inspection for about a year out. And they stay available if you have questions or concerns down the road. Keep all warranty documents somewhere safe. Schedule those annual inspections. And don't hesitate to call if something seems off. This relationship doesn't end when the crew leaves.
Residential Roofing Costs in Ontario
Average Roof Replacement Costs by Home Size
Small Home (1,000-1,500 sq ft roof)
- 3-Tab Shingles: $5,000-$10,500
- Architectural Shingles: $9,000-$13,500
- Designer Shingles: $12,000-$18,000
- Metal Roofing: $19,500-$42,000
Average Home (1,500-2,500 sq ft roof)
- 3-Tab Shingles: $7,500-$17,500
- Architectural Shingles: $12,000-$22,500
- Designer Shingles: $16,000-$30,000
- Metal Roofing: $26,000-$70,000
Large Home (2,500-3,500 sq ft roof)
- 3-Tab Shingles: $12,500-$24,500
- Architectural Shingles: $18,750-$31,500
- Designer Shingles: $24,000-$42,000
- Metal Roofing: $45,500-$98,000
Luxury Home (3,500+ sq ft roof)
- Architectural Shingles: $26,250-$40,000+
- Designer Shingles: $35,000-$60,000+
- Metal Roofing: $63,000-$105,000+
- Cedar or Slate: $70,000-$175,000+
Cost Factors That Affect Your Price
Several factors push costs higher. Steep roof pitches over 6/12 require more safety equipment and slower work. Complex designs with multiple valleys, dormers, or turrets need more materials and skilled labor. Multi-level homes and difficult access situations add time and logistics costs. When crews tear off old roofing and find extensive deck rot, those repairs add thousands. Removing multiple layers of old shingles takes longer than a single layer. Premium materials obviously cost more. And emergency winter installations command premium rates.
You can reduce costs with the right timing and conditions. Simple roof designs use less material and install faster. Easy access means equipment gets on site quickly. If your deck is in good shape, you skip repair costs entirely. Off-season installation in fall or early spring often gets better rates when contractors aren't as busy. Standard materials cost less than designer options. And getting multiple competitive bids helps you find fair market pricing.
Repair Cost Estimates
Smaller repairs cost much less than replacement. Minor shingle repairs run $150-$400 when you just need a few pieces replaced. Flashing repairs cost $200-$600 depending on the location and extent of damage. Valley repairs range from $400-$900 since they require careful waterproofing. Small leak repairs typically cost $300-$800 to track down and fix. Replacing a vent runs $150-$350. Emergency tarping to protect your home after storm damage costs $200-$600. And individual deck board replacement runs $75-$150 per board when you need spot repairs.
Financing Options Available
Most contractors in our network offer 0% financing for 12-24 months if you qualify. Extended payment plans stretch up to 10 years for larger projects. Watch for seasonal promotions and discounts during slower periods. Many contractors offer senior and military discounts, but you have to ask. And if you're filing an insurance claim, contractors can often help finance your deductible while the claim processes.
Choosing the Right Residential Roofing Contractor
Essential Qualifications
Before you sign anything, verify the contractor has proper credentials. They need a valid Ontario business license. Comprehensive liability insurance of at least $2 million protects you if something goes wrong. WSIB coverage for all workers means you won't be liable if someone gets hurt on your property. Check their standing with the Better Business Bureau. And make sure they have an actual local business address, not just a P.O. box or cell phone number.
These aren't optional nice-to-haves. They're basic requirements that separate legitimate contractors from fly-by-night operations who disappear when problems arise.
Red Flags to Avoid
Some warning signs should make you walk away immediately. A contractor with no physical business address is probably not planning to stick around. If they want more than 10% upfront before starting work, that's a red flag. No written contract or a vague one means no protection when things go wrong.
Pressure tactics and "today only" pricing are classic scam moves designed to prevent you from thinking clearly or getting other opinions. If they can't verify their insurance when you ask, they probably don't have it. Cash-only payment demands suggest they're hiding income from the government, which means they'll likely hide problems from you too. And contractors who started their business recently with no track record have no proven reliability.
Questions to Ask Every Contractor
Don't be shy about asking tough questions. Good contractors welcome them and answer clearly.
Start with their business background. How long have they been working in Ontario specifically, not just in roofing generally? Ask directly if they're licensed and insured, then request proof. You want to see the actual documents, not just hear "yes." Get local references you can contact, preferably recent projects similar to yours. Find out if they subcontract work or use their own trained crews. And confirm they'll handle all necessary permits instead of leaving that headache to you.
Dig into the project details. Will they provide a detailed written estimate that breaks down costs, or just a single number? Ask what exactly gets included in that estimate so you know if things like permits, cleanup, and disposal are covered. Get a realistic timeline for how long the work takes. Ask about warranties on both materials and workmanship, including what they actually cover. And find out specifically how they'll protect your property, landscaping, and belongings during the mess of tear-off and installation.
Talk materials with them. What brands and grades do they recommend, and more importantly, why those specific ones? What options do you actually have, or are they pushing just one product? Ask how long materials will be warranted and whether that's a manufacturer warranty, workmanship warranty, or both. Find out where they source materials because this affects quality control and whether they can quickly get replacements if something arrives damaged.
Plan for problems before they happen. What happens if they tear off your old roof and find deck damage underneath? How do they handle unexpected costs, and do you get notified before they do extra work? What's their policy on weather delays, and do you still pay if rain pushes the schedule back? And critically, what happens if you're not satisfied with the work when it's done? Their answer to this last question tells you a lot about their confidence and integrity.
Warning Signs During Quotes
Pay attention to how contractors behave during the quote process. If someone provides a quote without ever checking your attic, they're guessing and likely missing problems. Verbal-only estimates mean nothing when disputes happen later. When you ask about material differences and they can't explain clearly, they either don't know their products or they're hiding something.
Watch out for suspicious pricing and pressure tactics. Pricing that's 20% or more below every other quote usually means shortcuts, cheap materials, or plans to hit you with change orders later. Contractors pushing brands you've never heard of should explain why those products are better, not just cheaper for them to source. Anyone who discourages you from getting other quotes knows their offer won't stand up to comparison.
Availability can be a warning sign too. Refusing to provide references suggests unhappy past customers. And contractors who can start tomorrow when everyone else is booked weeks out probably aren't very good at their job, which is why they're available on short notice. Quality contractors stay busy.
What Great Contractors Do
Quality residential roofers stand out in obvious ways. They take time to inspect both your roof and attic thoroughly because problems hide in places you can't see from the ground. They provide detailed written estimates with clear line items so you know exactly what you're paying for.
They educate rather than pressure. They explain your options and the tradeoffs between them without pushing you toward the most expensive choice. They welcome your questions instead of acting annoyed. References get provided without hesitation. Warranty coverage gets explained in plain language.
Professionalism shows in everything they do. They discuss permit requirements up front. Insurance proof gets shown without you having to ask twice. They have an established online presence with actual reviews from real customers. Their materials and vehicles look professional with clear branding. And they communicate clearly and respond promptly when you reach out.
Warranties and Protection for Residential Roofs
Types of Warranties
Manufacturer Material Warranty covers defects in the roofing materials themselves. These run 20-50 years or even lifetime depending on which product you buy. If shingles fail prematurely because of manufacturing defects, the manufacturer replaces them. But this warranty won't cover installation errors, wind damage, or problems caused by poor maintenance. Most manufacturer warranties transfer to new homeowners when you sell, though often with restrictions on coverage length.
Contractor Workmanship Warranty covers installation defects and errors. Length varies from 1-10 years depending on the contractor, with better contractors offering longer coverage. If leaks develop because of poor installation, improper flashing, or ventilation mistakes, the contractor fixes them. This warranty doesn't cover material defects, storm damage, or damage you cause yourself. Workmanship warranties often don't transfer when you sell, or they transfer with significant limitations.
Extended or Enhanced Warranties combine material and workmanship coverage into one comprehensive package running 25-50 years. Both material failures and installation problems get covered. The catch? You need certified installers, specific material combinations the manufacturer approves, and professional maintenance on schedule. These cost more because you're paying for premium materials, certified installation, and ongoing inspections. But you get true peace of mind with a single warranty covering everything.
Maintaining Your Warranty
Most warranties require specific conditions to stay valid. You need professional installation by a licensed contractor, not your buddy who does roofing on weekends. Proper ventilation must meet manufacturer specifications. Regular maintenance (annual or twice yearly) catches problems early. Any damage needs prompt repairs. You must document all maintenance and repairs. And don't make unauthorized modifications or additions without checking how they affect your warranty.
Several actions void warranties fast. DIY repairs or modifications invalidate coverage even if you do good work. Adding satellite dishes or antennas without proper flashing voids most warranties. Letting moss or algae grow without treatment shows neglect. Skipping required maintenance gives manufacturers an easy out. Hiring unlicensed contractors for repairs breaks warranty terms. And failing to fix damage promptly when you discover it can void coverage for related problems.
Insurance Considerations
Your homeowners insurance typically covers storm damage from wind, hail, or falling trees. Fire damage gets covered. Sudden accidental damage qualifies. Vandalism is usually included. These are unexpected events you couldn't prevent.
But insurance won't cover normal wear and tear or aging. Lack of maintenance is your problem, not theirs. Gradual leaks that develop over time usually don't qualify. Manufacturer defects fall under warranty, not insurance. And intentional damage obviously isn't covered.
Smart homeowners review their policy coverage limits before problems happen. Document your roof's condition with photos periodically. Report storm damage promptly after events. Keep detailed maintenance records. Know your deductible amount. And understand the claims process before you need to use it so you're not figuring it out during a crisis.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a residential roof replacement take?
Most residential replacements take 1-3 days. A simple ranch with easy access might finish in one day. Complex multi-level homes with steep pitches and multiple valleys typically need 2-3 days. Weather delays extend timelines beyond anyone's control. Metal roofing takes longer than shingles, usually 2-4 days.
Can I live in my home during roof replacement?
Yes. The work is noisy and disruptive, but families stay home all the time during roof replacements. Expect loud noise from 7 AM to 6 PM. Your interior stays accessible. Many homeowners leave during work hours if they can, but it's not required. Just secure pets away from the work area for their safety.
How much does a typical residential roof replacement cost in Ontario?
Most Ontario homeowners spend $12,000-$22,500 for architectural shingle replacement in 2025. The range depends on home size, roof complexity, material choice, and location. Simple ranch homes might run $9,000-$13,500. Large two-story homes with complex designs hit $18,000-$30,000. Metal roofing costs roughly double what asphalt shingles cost. Get multiple detailed quotes for your specific situation.
How do I know if I need repair or replacement?
Repair usually makes sense when your roof's under 15 years old, damage stays localized to one area, you've got just a few missing or damaged shingles, and the majority of the roof looks good. Replace when your roof's 18+ years old, damage spreads across multiple areas, you have recurring leaks, shingles are curling or losing granules everywhere, you're selling soon, or you already have multiple layers. Age and extent of damage are the key factors.
What's the best time of year for roof replacement in Ontario?
Late spring through early fall works best. May through October gives contractors ideal conditions. Late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) often work perfectly with mild temperatures, less rain, and good contractor availability. July-August works fine but gets hot for workers. Winter installation is possible but costs more, takes longer, and creates more problems. Emergency repairs happen whenever they're needed regardless of season.
Do I need a permit for residential roof replacement in Ontario?
Most Ontario municipalities require building permits for roof replacement. Your contractor should handle permit applications as part of their service. Sometimes it's included in the estimate, sometimes it's an extra $100-$300 fee. Permits require a roof plan, manufacturer specs, proof of insurance, and final inspection. Skipping permits creates problems when you sell your home or file insurance claims later.
How long should my residential roof last in Ontario?
Material determines lifespan. 3-tab shingles last 15-20 years. Architectural shingles hit 25-30 years. Designer shingles reach 30-50 years. Metal roofing lasts 40-70 years. Cedar shakes with proper maintenance get 25-30 years. Slate roofing runs 75-150 years. But installation quality, Ontario's harsh weather, attic ventilation, and regular maintenance all affect these numbers significantly. Proper maintenance extends lifespan by 20-30 percent.
Should I get multiple quotes for my residential roofing project?
Always get at least three detailed written quotes. Multiple quotes help you understand fair market pricing, compare different approaches and recommendations, evaluate how contractors communicate and act professionally, spot red flags in pricing that seems too low or too high, and negotiate better terms. Our service connects you with multiple pre-screened contractors, which saves time while protecting quality.
Can I install a new roof over my existing shingles?
Sometimes, but full replacement usually works better. Ontario codes generally allow one layer over existing shingles (two layers total maximum). Overlay saves $1,000-$2,000 and installs faster with less waste. But it prevents deck inspection, adds weight to your structure, shortens lifespan, voids some warranties, can trap moisture, and eventually needs complete removal which costs more. Most experienced contractors recommend full tear-off for better long-term results.
What maintenance does my residential roof need?
Your roof needs attention to reach its full lifespan. Inspect it twice yearly in spring and fall. Clean gutters annually or more often if you have trees nearby. Fix any damage promptly when you spot it. Treat moss and algae before they cause problems. Maintain proper attic ventilation. Document all work for warranty purposes. Professional maintenance plans run $300-$600 per year and provide comprehensive care. Neglected roofs fail 20-30 percent sooner than maintained ones, costing thousands in early replacement.
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