Best Materials to Use for Roofing in Calgary
Given the variety of roofing materials available, Calgary homeowners may be confused about which type is most suitable for their roof. This article will examine types of roofing materials that are best suited for homes in Calgary, determined by analysis of compatibility with the local climate, durability, affordability, and overall performance.
Familiarising yourself with the features and perks of different roofing materials will enable you to determine what is best for you and your home. In Calgary you will face heavy snow, varying temperature, and sunlight levels with dry and intense summer heat. This makes it vital to understand how each material contributes to keeping your roof looking and operating well. Knowing whether a material is long-lasting or cost-effective can help you determine which is most suitable to your Calgary home.
Asphalt Shingles
An asphalt shingle roof is made of asphalt shingles and other roofing elements. These shingles are created from a mixture of fiberglass sheets, tar and asphalt granules, all layered on to a fiberglass mat.
Benefits
Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material in Calgary. They are known for their durability, affordability, and ease of installation. Asphalt shingles can withstand harsh weather conditions, making them ideal for Calgary’s climate.
Cost
The cost of asphalt shingles in Calgary ranges from $3 to $5 per square foot, including installation. This makes them one of the most cost-effective roofing options available.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is becoming increasingly popular in calgary. It is resistance to extreme weather conditions such as heavy snow, rain and high winds. It also prevents the building to be hot in the summer since it has a good reflective property. This roof excels in reflecting sunlight and reducing cooling costs in the summer.
Benefits
Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material in Calgary. They are known for their durability, affordability, and ease of installation. Asphalt shingles can withstand harsh weather conditions, making them ideal for Calgary’s climate.
Cost
The cost of a metal roof in Calgary is in the range of $7 to $12 per square foot. Compared to asphalt shingles, metal roofing is more costly. However, it is very durable and will server you in the long run.
Clay and Concrete Tiles
Clay and concrete tiles are durable roofing materials known for their long lifespan and aesthetic appeal.
Benefits
These types of roofs can last for decades and are resistant to fire, rot, and insects. These materials are also excellent for insulation, keeping homes warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Cost
These tiles come in two main forms: clay and concrete, both of which generally cost between $10 and $20 per square foot installed in Calgary. While more expensive to buy and install, they have a long lifespan and minimal maintenance over time, often making them worth the initial investment.
Flat Roofing
A flat is almost level in contrast to the many types of sloped roofs
Benefits
Flat roofing systems are practical for commercial and residential buildings with low-slope or flat roofs. They provide extra space for rooftop installations, such as HVAC units or solar panels. Materials like modified bitumen or EPDM rubber offer durability and weather resistance.
Cost
The cost of flat roofing in Calgary varies widely depending on the material and complexity of installation. Modified bitumen costs approximately $5 to $10 per square foot, while EPDM rubber costs $8 to $12 per square foot, including installation.
Rubber Roofing (EPDM)
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) rubber roofing is a popular choice for flat and low-slope roofs.
Benefits
It offers excellent durability, weather resistance, and flexibility. EPDM is resistant to UV radiation and thermal shock, making it suitable for Calgary’s climate.
Cost
The cost of EPDM rubber roofing in Calgary ranges from $8 to $12 per square foot, including installation. It is cost-effective and requires minimal maintenance over its lifespan.
Comparing Roofing Materials
Roofing needs to be compared across a few parameters in order to arrive at the best material. Some physical properties of these roofing materials affect their performances along with their longevity. Asphalt shingles, for example, offer affordability and ease of installation, making them a popular choice for many homeowners. On the other hand, metal roofing provides durability and energy efficiency, although it comes at a higher initial cost.
Clay and concrete tiles offer longevity and aesthetic appeal but require careful consideration of their weight and installation requirements. Cedar wood provides a natural look but need regular maintenance to preserve their beauty and integrity.
Slate roofing has proven to have exceptionally high durability and an array of colors to choose from based on the mineral considerations. Its heavy weight and at times special demands make it a costlier option, sometimes providing higher installation costs.
Roofing Trends and Innovations:
Trends and innovation in roofing are moving in one direction: towards addressing homeowner interests with sustainable and high-tech products to make our roofs more efficient, more environmentally friendly, and weather-resistant in ways that didn’t exist before.
Long-standing sustainable roofing innovations continue to grow in popularity, such as solar tiles which infuse roof coverings with enough power to help your home run more sustainably, and green roofs that cover roofs in plants to provide insulation, air and water filtration, and more. Because of advancements in technology, there are more synthetic (or fake) roofing materials in the market today that look more like the real thing, such as synthetic slate and deep-eave synthetic cedar shingles that replicate slate tiles or cedar shingles more accurately, as well as are easier to install, resistant to fire and rot, and lessen property maintenance upkeep.
Smart roofing systems equipped with sensors and automation are also trending upwards, they attach sensors that help you better manage your roof in real time. By keeping on top of these trends and innovation, this will future-proof your home and make your home worth more in the long run.
Whether you are going to choose asphalt shingles, metal roofing, tiles, slate roofing, cedar wood roofing, flat roofing, or EPDM rubber roofing, each system has some benefits that others don’t. Your budget, maintenance expectations, and the specific architectural needs of your home will influence your final decision in terms of choosing a roofing system. Here are some important points to consider:
Climate Compatibility:
Selecting roofing materials that are suitable for Calgary’s climate is crucial. The city experiences diverse weather conditions throughout the year, including heavy snowfall, intense sunlight, strong winds, and temperature fluctuations.
Durability and Lifespan:
When evaluating roofing materials, consider their expected lifespan and durability against local weather conditions. Asphalt shingles typically last 15 to 30 years, depending on the quality and maintenance, making them a practical choice for many homeowners. Metal roofing can last 50 years or more with minimal maintenance, offering superior durability against hail and wind. Slate roofing is renowned for its longevity, often lasting over 100 years when properly installed.
Aesthetic Appeal:
Choose a roofing material and style that complements the design elements of your home, whether it’s traditional, contemporary, or rustic. Asphalt shingles come in a variety of colors and textures to match different architectural styles. Metal roofing offers sleek, modern options with finishes that mimic traditional materials like shingles or tiles. Slate roofing provides a timeless elegance with its natural color variations and textured surface.
Maintenance Requirements:
Understanding the maintenance needs of roofing materials is essential for preserving their appearance and performance over time. For Example, asphalt shingles require periodic inspections for damage and debris removal to prevent moss and algae growth. Metal roofing may need occasional cleaning to maintain its appearance and remove debris that can cause scratches or corrosion.
Energy Efficiency:
Opt for roofing materials that offer good insulation properties to help regulate indoor temperatures and reduce heating and cooling costs.
Cost and Budget:
Determine the upfront costs, installation expenses, and long-term maintenance costs to fit within your budget constraints.
Local Regulations:
Ensure compliance with local building codes, regulations, and HOA requirements when selecting roofing materials and designs.
Environmental Impact:
Assessing the environmental impact of roofing materials helps minimize your carbon footprint and support sustainable building practices. Choose materials with high recyclability, such as metal roofing, which is often made from recycled materials and can be recycled at the end of its lifespan.
Warranty and Support:
Review the warranty coverage and after-sales support offered by manufacturers and contractors to protect your investment.
Why Choose us for your roofing?
Expertise
With years of experience in the roofing industry, our team possesses extensive knowledge and skills to handle diverse roofing projects efficiently. We specialize in various roofing materials and techniques, ensuring precise installation and repairs tailored to your home’s specific requirements.
Quality
We prioritize quality in every aspect of our service, from the materials we use to the craftsmanship of our installations. By partnering with reputable manufacturers, we guarantee durable and reliable roofing solutions that withstand Calgary’s challenging climate conditions.
Competitive Pricing
We offer transparent and competitive pricing without compromising on quality. Our cost-effective solutions ensure you receive the best value for your investment, with no hidden fees and clear estimates provided upfront.
Customer Satisfaction
Your satisfaction is our top priority. We provide personalized service, clear communication throughout the project, and ongoing support to address any concerns promptly. Our goal is to exceed your expectations, ensuring your roofing experience is stress-free and successful.
We try to stand out as the best roofing company in our area because we offer our services for your home at a fair price that is reliable and contributes to home protection for decades, leaving it looking beautiful at all times. Contact Us today to get started