A Guide for Canadian Homeowners

Concrete remains one of the most popular building materials in Canada, the manufacturing industry generating a revenue around two billion CAD in 2017. of There are two main forms of concrete roofing: shingles and a single slab, several inches thick, which covers your entire rooftop. While the ingredients may vary depending on who manufactures them, generally concrete tiles all tend to have the same shape, size, colour, and texture. Additionally, all concrete roofs are usually made up three main components: sand, cement, and water.

Want to know to know if a concrete roof is the best choice for your home? The following article provides all you need to know about one of the sturdiest roof products available.

Advantages of Concrete Roofs

Weather Resistance: One of the main benefits of a concrete foof is its ability to shield your home from harmful elements– it can withstand category five hurricane force winds of more than 155 mph (when shingles are properly nailed in), heavy rain, hail damage and sheds snow easily. This makes them highly adaptable the Canadian climate.

Ever wondered why so many man-made objects – everything from pavements, highways, and parking structures to boats- are constructed with concrete? This is because it is one of the few materials in the world that is virtually impermeable to both fire and water. Its slow rate of thermal conductivity (heat transfer) also means that concrete roofs are also immune to forest fires.

Lifespan: It is longer lasting than many other roofs, with a shelf-life of around 30 – 40 years when correctly installed and maintained. Indeed, one of the most iconic concrete buildings, the Roman Colosseum, built in 80 A.D. has survived up to the present day.

Sustainability: Concrete, though often thought of as an artificial substance is in fact produced organically in some parts of the world. It is one of the most environmentally-friendly products, being produced from some of the world’s most readily available natural substances, energy efficient, durable and easily recycled.

Low Maintenance

Energy Efficiency: Concrete’s inherent ability to absorb and retain heat in colder months while reflecting most of the heat from the sun’s rays in the summer, means your heating and cooling bills will be greatly reduced. Scientists have even recently built a concrete roof capable of producing solar energy. https://futurism.com/scientists-have-created-a-concrete-roof-that-generates-solar-power/

Disadvantages of Concrete Roofs

Installation Difficulties: The installation process is one of the most challenging of all types of roofs. Amongst other complications, cutting tiles for valleys is a slow process and tiles are easily broken, especially when walked on.

Replacement Difficulties: Tiles tend to fade quickly over time and finding new shingles to match them can become an issue

Weight: The material is also heavier than many other roof systems.

Price: Cost-wise, it is more expensive than asphalt roofs and usually falls into the price range of wood shakes.

Which Homes are Best Suited to Concrete Roofs

For many homeowners, one of your main concerns when choosing a roof will be its aesthetic appeal. It’s easy to customize a concrete roof for most types of homes, given the fact that the shingles are available in various patterns, colours, sizes, and shapes. With their ability to mimic the look of shake, slate, and clay tiles, they mesh well with traditional suburban homes but they are also used frequently for Spanish, Mediterranean and modernistic architectural styles.

Photo 1 – Concrete slab roof on a Greek beach house, providing a futuristic appeal

The bricks can be categorized under three main profile appearances:

Flat Profile – As the name suggests, these are entirely flat

Low Profile – Have a slight curvature, with a rise-to-width ratio equal or less than 1:5

High Profile – Have a curvature with a rise-to-width ratio of more than 1:5

How to Install Concrete Tile Roofs: A Basic Overview

Concrete tiles are one of the most difficult of all roofing materials to set up. It is highly recommended that instead of attempting to put up this material on your own, you contact an experienced roofing specialist.

That being said, if you’re curious about how the process works, we’ve put together a simple step-by-step breakdown.

Installing Concrete Slab Roofs:

• Create a framework of insulating concrete structures or pressure treated lumber, which will form the “skeleton” of the completed roof
• Reinforce the frames with steel bars and a concrete mixture
• Determine how much and which type of concrete you will need to fill in the roof. Pour concrete, after installing the formwork, starting from the farthest corner and working your way in.
• Use a concrete vibrator to ensure that there are no open air pocket
• Finish sealing the roof, using a bull float to keep it smooth and level
• Allow the roof several months to properly dry out and harden

Installing Concrete Shingle Roofs:

• Estimate how many tiles you will need.
• Determine the weight of the tiles, in order to gauge the level of structural integrity that is required. Pro tip: many homes composed of wood are not able to fully support a concrete roof without being properly adjusted, while a building with concrete walls and flooring is ideal for this type of roof
• Build a strong base with sheathing attached
• Secure flashings around any open areas
• Fasten the tiles to felt or roof battens

To Conclude: The Next Step

Since the earliest historical times, humans have used caves as shelter, realizing that rocks provide the best protection from harsh elements. It’s no surprise that concrete, along with slate, flagstone and sandstone are still used for rooftops today – especially for homeowners seeking enhanced weather protection.

The top selling point of concrete roofs is therefore their ability to act as a powerful barrier to all types of climate conditions, at a competitive price.

Want to learn more about Concrete Roofs? Looking for a reliable roofing contractor?

Look no further! Call us now for a free no obligation estimate at 1.855.582.7263 or fill in the form at the top of the page and we’ll get back to you soon!

The post What are Concrete Roofs? appeared first on Reliable Roof Repair.

An Ideal Roof for Canadian Winters

You may be wondering, what exactly are wood shakes and shingles?

Simply put, shakes are tapered pieces of wooden roof material which are split from logs of pine, red cedar, California redwood, cypress, spruce, or other trees. Shingles, on the other hand, resulted from the invention of commercial sawmills which allowed workers to produce a more uniform, streamlined product of identical thickness.

Choosing a Wood Shake or Shingle Roof for your Toronto Home

Wood shakes and shingles have a beautiful aesthetic and blend well with different building designs.

Over time they turn a soft, pretty, silvery-grey patina, adding to their visual appeal. Their rough, weathered, natural look makes them blend well with houses in mountain or forest areas, or homes which are made of wood. The Pacific Northwest and Colorado are prime locations for this roof style – indeed red cedar roofs are often considered a classic roof for this area. They also go well with cottages and beach houses. Architectural types which work best with wood shakes include:

• Rustic style
• Georgian style
• Classic bungalow style
• Shingle style

Additionally, much like asphalt shingles and metal roofs, wood shakes are available in different patterns, sizes, cuts, and colours. Stains, finishes and paints can be used to enhance the natural tone of the wood or have it changed to virtually any other transparent or opaque colour.

Wood Roofs are Ideal for Canadian Weather

Wooden roofs are a fine alternative to metal or asphalt roofs, if you are looking for a roof which can withstand cold temperatures, ice and snow. They act as natural insulators, providing high thermal resistance and thus lowering both heating and cooling costs. This makes them a great match for the strong weather variations experienced in Toronto. Wood roofs can withstand hurricanes, hailstorms, snowstorms, earthquakes and most other meteorological conditions.

Pros and Cons of Wood Shake and Shingle Roofs – At a Glance

Tips for Installing Wood Shingle/Shake Roofs

Due to the installation challenges they present, it’s always best to look for an experienced, reliable roofing contractor to set up your shingles or shakes. However, some important pointers for laying down this type of roof are:

• Always use rust-resistant nails
• Have shingles or shakes nailed to sheathing to ensure proper ventilation
• Start the first layer at the eaves of the roof
• Be sure to cover the roof deck with two layers of felt or some other waterproof medium when installing shakes
• Keep subsequent layers aligned properly and straight

More About Roof Replacement/Repair

Wood shakes or shingles are one of the best options for homeowners hoping to achieve a rustic aesthetic appeal as well as being great for withstanding Canada’s diverse and rapidly fluctuating climate conditions.

Looking for a reliable roofing contractor? Look no further! Call us now for a free no obligation estimate at 1.855.582.7263 or fill in the form at the top of the page and we’ll get back to you soon!

The post Guide to Wood Shake and Shingle Roofs appeared first on Reliable Roof Repair.

Guide to Clay Tile Roofs

The Best Roof for Insulating your Home

Clay roofing can be a beautiful addition to any building. Originating back in Ancient China, from as early as 10,000 B.C., clay has been used to shelter homes. See the following guide to clay tile roofs, for a full rundown on this roofing material.

What Are Clay Tile Roofs?

To start off our guide to clay tile roofs, it seems best to start with a basic definition. Simply put, this roof material is made up of tiles which are produced from moulded clay that is baked in ovens and then manufactured in various styles, shapes, textures, and sizes.

There are three main types:

• Flat tiles – Shingles which may be attached to a roof with nails or joined together in overlapping patterns
• Pantiles – Curved, rectangular s-shaped slabs designed to overlap each other and create a lighter roof compared to flat tiles
• Ridge or Hip Tiles – Larger, more decorative blocks used on roof ridges

Choosing a Clay Tile Roof for your Toronto Home

There are countless housing types, both historical and contemporary, that mesh well with clay roofs: from authentic Latin-influenced abodes, Greek-Mediterranean villas, or New England colonial estates to Georgian and Romanesque Revival manors.

Photo 1- An elegant red clay roof on a Spanish Style home

Photo 2 – South American colonial building with a pantile roof

Photo 3 – A traditional Mediterranean styled home

There’s no denying that clay roofing has a rustic look and rich natural colour which adds to its charm. The higher the slope of the roof the better, when it comes to highlighting its aesthetic.  Additionally, the bricks can be designed to simulate wooden shakes or other types of roof materials. The choice is yours as to which style works best for your home.

Clay Roofs for Toronto Weather

The growing popularity of clay as a roof throughout history seems to be linked heavily to its non-combustible quality. Clay tile roofs are so well-known for being resistant to ignition that even medieval Kings recognized their value. King John made them the stipulated roof for Londoners by royal decree, following the Great Fire of Southwark around 1212 AD. This ability to withstand fire makes them an ideal option for high temperature, low rainfall prone parts of Canada which are the most vulnerable to wildfires.

Overall, the roofs are immune to most weather conditions. From heavy rain, to windstorms, earthquakes, snow, hailstones or even hurricane force winds of over 150 mph, Clay is impenetrable. Comparable with the strength of concrete roofs, clay shingles have in some cases remained intact for over 1000 years! Unlike wooden shakes and asphalt shingles, Clay does not expand or shrink due to temperature changes -air flow properties keep your home cool in the summer and retain warmth in the winter.

Pros and Cons of Clay Tile Shingles – At a Glance

How to Install a Clay Roof – A Brief Overview

• The first step is always having the length and width of your roof measured; this helps you to determine the measurements you’ll need to provide when ordering your new tiles.
• When the time comes to buy the roof material, doing research to look for a trusted local supplier is your best plan. There are different grades of clay which provide varying levels of resistance to environmental conditions.
• Hire a reliable roofing contractor who has expertise and experience with clay roofs.
• Ensure that you form a solid underlay, using asphalt-coated material that is properly fastened.
• Follow up with valleys, gutters, and corrosion-resistant flashing, around areas like chimneys and conduits
• Start from the lower edge of the roof around the eaves, nailing in each tile to create the first layer then fill in the rest of the roof with interlocking layers.
• Install edging to provide further weather protection and complete the outer appearance.

Conclusion – More Roof Alternatives

Clay roofs are ideal for homeowners who are concerned about their roof’s ability to shield their home from the external environment; they are excellent protection for both colder and hotter areas, providing the best insulation compared to any other roof.

While being slightly pricier than some the other possibilities, such as asphalt roofs, they are more visually pleasing – and arguably more cost effective in the long-term.

Enjoyed our guide to clay tile roofs? Learn more about other roof types like Asphalt Shingles, Slate Tiles, Metal Roofs, Concrete Tiles and more – or see Which is the Best Type of Roof for Me? for a comparison of the best known roof options!

Looking for a reliable roofing contractor? Look no further! Call us now for a free no obligation estimate at 1.855.582.7263 or fill in the form at the top of the page and we’ll get back to you soon!

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What Toronto Homeowners Need to Know About One of the World’s Architectural Beauties

Along with clay and thatch, stone is one of the most ancient roof materials,having been used in Europe for hundreds of years. The origin of cleavable slate stones can be traced back the 8^th century, quarried from Western parts of England and Wales. They became popular in Canada during the mid-19^th century. Indeed, slate tiles can be seen adorning the Craigdarroch in Victoria B.C, as well as Toronto’s University College and one of the oldest churches in the country – St. Michael’s Cathedral. Aside from its historical usage, slate is still made into roofs for commercial and residential purposes today throughout Canada.

What Are Slate Roofs?

Natural stone roofs made up of slate; a metamorphosed, crystalline rock arising from mudstone or shale, which is split into flat, thinner sheets, shingles, and tiles. Slate tends to be formed between converging plate boundaries.

Types of Slate Roofs – Which is Best for Your Home?

Slate is perfect for giving a unique, stately look to buildings. It fits well with Spanish and Mediterranean-styled buildings.

The stone is available in a myriad of colours such as blue, green, black, blue-grey, red, or purple, depending on its source and textures from ranging from rustic to smooth and flat.

The three main types of slate tiles include:

• Weathering: Colours transform dramatically over time
• Semi-Weathering: Colours change less drastically than they do for weathering slate
• Unfading: The pigmentation is maintained over a significant length of time

Slate can be further divided into two categories: hard and soft. Knowing the difference between the two is important when the time comes to replace or repair slate roofs.

Hard Slate: Have a lifespan of 75 – 200 years and are usually of different colours as opposed to black. It’s recommended that you restore hard slate roofs rather than overhaul them entirely if the roof has issues – as this type of slate most likely will have 100 years of life left on it.

Soft Slate: Usually black in colour and compared to hard slate, have a much shorter life expectancy of 50 to 125 years. In the event that this roof experiences problems, it’s probably best to replace it entirely as the costs and efforts spent on repair may not be worthwhile.

Can Slate Roofs Withstand Toronto Weather?

As climate conditions change frequently across the GTA, naturally you’ll want a home which can adapt to all the variations. The good news is that slate is one of the most enduring elements, able to withstand major meteorological damage without even taking on a weathered appearance.

Cold Weather: Slate can take a beating from intense cold, such as is experienced from the worst Canadian winters. It does not absorb water, which means it is ideal for colder areas where it is exposed to snow and ice.

Hotter Climates: It’s also non-combustible, making it a fine option for very dry, hot wildfire-prone locations. The stone reflects heat, rather than absorbing it, thus lowering your energy costs.

Wind: The rigid, unbendable nature of slate makes it a fine option for high-wind climates, especially with proper headlap and nail length. Securing tiles with metal hooks adds to their wind-resistant ability.

Pros and Cons of Slate Roofs – At a Glance

How to Install Slate Roofs – A Basic Overview

Stainless steel/copper nails or metal hooks are traditionally used to fasten slate shingles. Usually, tiles are wired/screwed to angles of a steel framed roof, or affixed with nails to wooden sheathing, in overlapping strips. It is often laid on or mixed with mortar or asphalt, depending on the climate, for increased durability against external elements.

A bit of advice: try to add slope to the roof – the higher the better – and take other steps to prevent anyone from walking on the roof, as the pieces are easily breakable.

Installing slate is very complex – it’s probably best to leave it in the hands of a reliable roofer, rather than putting yourself at risk and possibly causing further damage to the tiles. Nevertheless, for curious minds, the following provides a basic run-through of the installment process:

• The first step is always having the length and width of your roof measured; this helps you to determine the measurements you’ll need to provide when ordering your new shingles.
• When the time comes to buy the roof material, doing research to look for a trusted local supplier is your best plan. For slate, it is best to select an established manufacturer from Canada or the U.S. as importing it from overseas is riskier.
• Hire a reliable roofing contractor – also known as a “slater”; a person who has expertise and experience with slate roofs.
• Ensure that the roof deck is properly constructed, so that it can potentially support the slate for at least 150 years. This means using durable solid lumber, such as oak boards and concrete as opposed to cheap constituents, glued/laminated products, and plywood.
• Have holes drilled or preferable, punched into each piece of slate. Use a tape measure to create chalk lines.
• Lay out the starter strip, with partial overhang over the roof edge and then the first course.
• Follow up with the rest of the roof in staggering layers and ridge lines.

Conclusion

Slate tiles are one of the most visually marvellous roof options and their strength and shelf-life make them an excellent roof alternative for Toronto homeowners. We’d love to walk you through your slate roof installation/repair process- contact us today!

Want to learn about other roof styles? Check out our Which is the Best Type of Roofing Material For Me article for more advice.

Looking for a reliable roofing contractor? Look no further! Call us now for a free no obligation estimate at 1.855.582.7263 or fill in the form at the top of the page and we’ll get back to you soon!

The post Facts About Slate Roofs appeared first on Reliable Roof Repair.

Whether you’re building a home for the first time or re-roofing, without a doubt, asphalt is your most convenient option. Being among the easiest roofs to install, as well as one of the cheapest, it isn’t difficult to see why 75 percent of homes in North America have shingle roofs.

Here’s the breakdown on why asphalt shingles may be the best roof for Torontonians.

What are Asphalt Shingle Roofs?

Simply put, one of the newest roofs to be invented in the 20^th century, also referred to as a “steep slope roof”, which consists of a material called shingles. The shingles use asphalt as a waterproofing coating on top of a base.

Click here to read about other roof varieties

Types of Asphalt/Composite Shingles

Organic Shingles: These are the traditional type of shingles, manufactured with sheets of organic material such as felt, paper, cellulose, or wood fibre and reinforced with an asphalt coating.

Fiberglass Shingles:

The most common type of shingle for homeowners today, they consist of: a fiberglass layer, asphalt, and sand-like, ceramic granules (to provide sunlight protection and add colour). They are a lighter, more sustainable, and longer-lasting alternative to organic shingles.

Strip or 3-Tab: Flat, uniform shingles with cutouts which give it a more slate-like appearance

Dimensional: Also referred to as Architectural or Laminated Shingles, these premium materials have a more 3D appearance, are more durable, thicker and can be made to mimic the look of wood or slate. A second layer of shingles is adhered to the first layer.

Choosing the Best Asphalt Roof for your Toronto Home

A roof makes up almost half of the visible exterior of your home. As such, there’s no doubt that it affects people’s first impression. Many persons go as far as considering the roof an element of their exterior decorating.

Colour and style should be your top concerns.

Some of the questions you should ask yourself are:

• Will the colour compliment the exterior walls of my home? Hint: white walls are a blank slate which will go well with most colours
• How steep or flat is the slope of my roof?
• Is it too close a shade to the colour of the walls?
• What kind of aesthetic, or statement am I trying to make?
• Is the roof reflecting of my personality?
• What is the psychological effect? (i.e. calming, stimulating, warm etc.)?
• How will this style energy costs? Darker tints keep your home warmer while lighter colours are great for insulation in warmer climates.
• Which hue does the natural sunlight cast in my climate? Is it a cooler or warmer tone?
• Which types of building materials is my home made up of? For example, textured or “busy” looking exteriors go better with a more neutral roof
• How will this style blend with the natural surroundings/landscaping?
• How does it fit in with the other houses in my neighbourhood?
• Is the rest of my home monotonous/neutral in tone?
• How will this roof colour affect the resale value of my home?

How Do Asphalt Shingles Stand Up To Toronto Weather?

Shingles, while providing adequate shelter, aren’t known for being the most climate-resistant of materials – but perhaps a better way of describing them would be to say that they aren’t suited to extremes of weather, especially dramatic temperature changes.

They aren’t the best choice for windier locales, as they are easily torn and ripped off. Nor are you likely to find them on any “Best Roofs for Hot Climates” lists, as they are worn away over time by heat. Intense cold weather causes them to dry out and crack. Excessive moisture and rain in humid, damp regions of Toronto can be problematic as well: the eaves and seams allow moisture to get into the roof, if they aren’t sealed properly. Not to mention, shingles are susceptible to algae and mould.

However, it is worth noting that they are one of the most impact-resistant products, offering powerful protection against snow, rain, and hail and are better equipped for cooler areas.

Click here for more about the effects of weather/climate on roofs

Overall Pros & Cons of Asphalt Roofs – At a Glance

How to Install Asphalt Shingles: Seven Simple Steps

Setting up this roof can be done as a DIY project or by hiring a contractor. In any case, knowing the proper steps is important as it will help you extend your roof’s shelf life and decrease lifetime costs.

1. The first step is always having the length and width of your roof measured; this helps you to determine the measurements you’ll need to provide when ordering your new shingles. Shingles generally come in bundles.
2. When the time comes to buy the roof material, doing research to look for a trusted local supplier is your best plan.
3. Hire a reliable roofing contractor who has expertise and experience with shingle roofs.
4. Determine how shingles will lie on your roof and measure them.
5. Remove old roofing material, including nails, flashing and damaged/rotten boards and clean the deck area well, to make it as smooth and flat as possible.
6. Set up underlayment and ice/water protection around the eaves. Install “caps” in appropriate places and cover joints and valleys.
7. Start from the bottom up, setting overlapping layers of shingles into position.

Conclusion – More about Toronto Roof Alternatives

Asphalt shingles may not be ideal for all types of weather, nor the most long-lasting of roofs but their versatility of styles/textures and affordability, availability and convenience of installation and repair make up for that. Properly installing and maintaining shingles helps to minimize any drawbacks.

Would you like to learn more about the different roof options available to Toronto homeowners? Click here for more about roofing alternatives.

The post Guide to Asphalt/Composite Shingle Roofs appeared first on Reliable Roof Repair.

Choosing a permanent shelter and protection for your home is a significant investment. Is a metal roof the right choice for your Toronto home? Only you can know the answer to that. This article explores everything you’ve ever wanted to know about this type of roof material to help you make that decision.

What Are Metal Roofs?

In basic terms, metal roofs consist of a roof system made up of metal strips. Galvanized steel, aluminium and tin are the two most common types of metal used for residential roofs, while copper and zinc are pricier and may be more typical for commercial buildings.

 Choosing the Best Metal Roof for your Toronto Home

Concerned about clashing terribly with your surroundings or standing out in a very bad way in your neighbourhood? Getting attention can be a positive thing sometimes – but having a gaudy looking eyesore on your home probably wasn’t what you had in mind. Thankfully that doesn’t have to be the case!

If there’s one benefit to this material, it’s the versatility it allows. The metal is usually cut into shapes and coated to make it resemble refined-looking shingles, wooden shakes (offering a cheaper and tougher alternative while still retaining the rustic appearance), slate, or Spanish tiles. Alternatively, it can deliver an ultra-modern look, if that’s what you prefer. Between stone-coated, corrugated, ribbed, shiny, or glossy, the options are seemingly never-ending.

All the above are also available in a virtually infinite number of colours, making it easy for you to tailor your roof to compliment your home, no matter the architectural style.

Can a Metal Roof Withstand Toronto Weather?

Perhaps more critical than its physical appearance is the question of whether the roof can hold up to the weather in your area, for years to come. Canadian weather varies greatly, especially in Toronto, from sometimes extreme summer heat and humidity to intense cold, heavy snow and high winds.

The good news is that a metal roof is adaptable to all of these fluctuations – acting as an insulator during the warmer months and deflecting UV rays from the sun while also shedding snow easily in the Winter.

To add to that, they are highly wind-resistant, especially compared to asphalt shingles and one of your best options for hurricane force winds, with fewer exposed edges or eaves.

Overall Pros & Cons of Metal Roofs – At a Glance

How to Install a Metal Roof

Finding a reliable roofing contractor is the best way of ensuring that your roof is properly installed to reduce maintenance costs in the future and prolong its lifespan. Not to mention, it’s significantly safer than handling the challenges associated with roof repair such as braving dangerous weather conditions, crossing the path of bees and other pests, and putting yourself at the risk of disastrous slips and falls.

That being said, the choice is yours as to whether to make your metal roof installation a DIY project, or entrust it to a professional.

Here are some general installation tips:

1. The first step is always having the length and width of your roof measured; this helps you to determine the measurements you’ll need to provide when ordering your new metal panels. This system is usually comprised of 2 – 3 ft panels
2. When the time comes to buy the roof material, doing research to look for a trusted local supplier is your best plan
3. Hire a reliable roofing contractor who has expertise and experience with metal, to remove your existing roof and paper down to the roofing panels
4. Install flat boards and nail down metal edging
5. Fasten in the metal panels, shingles, or shakes
6. Finally, overlap and secure panels, ridges, and closures, such as the R-Panel Ridge is vital to finishing your roof

Click here to learn more about choosing a reliable roofer in your area

Final Thoughts

If weather and climate is your main concern, metal roofs can be the best way of sheltering your home at a lower price than other weatherproof systems such as concrete tiles and slate, while providing an excellent buffer to mould, moss, mildew, rot, and insects.

Metal roof repair and installation can be tricky, especially if you’re a novice to the material. We’d love to help guide you through the process. Talk to us today!

Would you like to learn more about the metal roofs? Our team of experts is here to help. Call us now for a free no obligation estimate at 1.855.582.7263 or fill in the form at the top of the page and we’ll get back to you soon!

The post All About Metal Roofs appeared first on Reliable Roof Repair.

What Exactly Are Green/Living Roofs?

When deciding on the best choice of roof for a business, a green/living roof probably wasn’t the first option that came to mind.

Providing that they are even aware of this unconventional roof’s existence, people usually think of it as complicated, expensive and more effort than they’re willing to spend. However, the advantages to this roof outweigh any drawbacks. Green/Living Roofs are becoming an increasingly popular roof alternative for firms in Toronto.

You may not have heard about or seen this variety of roof before – or if you have, may be wondering how exactly it functions. So what really are green roofs?

Assembled as layers on top of an appropriate, pre-existing, human-made roof which provides structural support, a living roof is made up of:

• A growing medium
• Vegetation
• Insulation
• A waterproof membrane
• A root-repellent system
• A drainage system

There are two main types of green roofs: Intensive/Active and Extensive.

Intensive/Active Green Roofs

Roofs which have a deeper growing medium which is conducive to heavy vegetation growing (can carry a load of up to 150 lbs per square foot) and additionally, can be used as accessible, recreational spaces.

Extensive Green Roofs

With a soil depth of just 3-6 inches generally, extensive green roofs are much shallower, in comparison. They are lightweight and built with low maintenance requirements and self-sustaining propensity in mind.

Examples of Green/Living Roofs in Toronto:

 The City of Toronto is home to an estimated 500 green roofs in total, on both privately owned and city owned buildings.

The Fairmont Royal York

The Royal York, at the heart of Downtown Toronto, is one of Toronto’s most well-known historic hotels. It houses a private, 4000 square-foot, intensive green roof, complete with edible flowers, herbs, vegetables, and fruits which are used by the hotel’s chefs. The hotel also boasts more recently installed rooftop apiaries used for brewing beer.

York University

Built in 2003, the green roof perched atop York University’s Computer Science and Engineering building has been shown to have increased stormwater retention by a significant percent. The roof is divided up into decks, intensive gardens, container gardens and extensive green roof areas.

The Big Carrot

It seems appropriate that located on one of the Greektown area’s busiest natural food markets, The Big Carrot food store, is a rooftop equipped for gardening, agriculture, community events and even movie nights.

Ryerson University

The university’s “urban farm” is a quarter acre of semi-intensive living roof which has in some years produced up to 8,000 lbs of fresh produce which is sold at farmer’s markets and local campus diners. The roof is also used for research purposes, with specialized hydrological and climatological sensors having been installed to track data.

DUCA Financial Services Hotel

This green roof is composed of two different green spaces: an intensive green roof used for outdoor recreational activities and an extensive roof made up of greenery for to enhance the views of employees.

How Green/Living Roofs Can Benefit Your Business

In addition to maximizing and enhancing your employees’ working space by providing scenic views, recreational spaces, cleaner air and a buffer to noise pollution, Green Roofs also can help you reduce overall costs in the long term.

They are known for minimizing air-conditioning and heating bills because of their capacity for absorbing sunlight and insulating. It is unlikely that you will have to spend a lot on repairs or replacement as green roofs are of the most potentially long-lasting roofs if properly maintained with a lifespan of approximately 30-50 years. This is partially due to their ability to protect the underlying roof membrane.

Overall Advantages of a Green/Living Roof

Green roofs are clearly the most environmentally-friendly, sustainable roof style at your disposal, as you may have already figured out. They also offer plenty of other benefits, which include:

• Trapping storm water, therefore helping to decrease the amount of water run-off and sewage overflows in urban areas
• Improving the quality of stormwater runoff
• Maximizing biodiversity in cities – encouraging more varieties of animal and plant life
• Enhancing aesthetic beauty – Green Roofs are very appealing in terms of the scenic views they offer, especially in city areas where they offer a breath of fresh air in comparison to the usual concrete, asphalt, glass, and metal
• Functioning as a bio-filter sponge – absorbing dirt, heavy metals, and pollution
• Creating a view and natural environment which improves the health and quality of life of employees and hospital patients
• Acting as a sound buffer – insulating against both high and low frequency noises
• Reducing energy costs and electricity usage
• Providing Oxygen
• Offering shade
• Are long lasting
• Cooling the air through the process of Evapotranspiration
• Providing cooling effects in the Summer and insulation during the Winter
• Counteracting the Urban Heat Island Effect caused by buildings absorbing heat
• Useful for growing fresh food
• Provide additional rooftop space which can be used for agriculture or recreation

Disadvantages of a Green/Living Roof

• They are heavy and require a certain level of structural support
• High expenses involved in installing and purchasing parts of the roof – at about $15 – $20 per square foot in the United States, for example
• Installing the roof can be very complicated – we recommend you look for an experienced roofing contractor  to ensure that roof is properly set up
• Intensive green roofs are high-maintenance

Conclusion

Interested in investing in more innovative, green technology? Or maybe you’d just like to lower costs of running your business? If that’s the case, then a living roof is probably the best option for you.

Would you like to learn more about the green roofs? Our team of experts is here to help. Call us now for a free no obligation estimate at 1.855.582.7263 or fill in the form at the top of the page and we’ll get back to you soon!

The post What Are Green/Living Roofs? appeared first on Reliable Roof Repair.

It should be obvious when your roof needs to have some work done; water dripping from the ceiling whenever it rains and sunlight filtering in through the boards should give you a few sure-fire hints. However, sometimes the damage your roof sustains isn’t as obvious and it may come as a surprise when more drastic issues result.

The following are the ten best signs that your roof needs fixing:

1.    Visible Wear & Tear

If your roof simply looks worn, aged, and weather-beaten in appearance, this alone is a warning sign. Broken, missing or dislodged shingles, loose granules or bare spots may not seem to be important at first but can eventually lead to more urgent issues. Finding lots of granules in your gutters is definite evidence that your shingles have taken a beating. You’ll want to have your gutters cleaned out at least once a year to ensure that your roof continues to function properly.

Even what might seem to be inconsequential physical damage, such as small depressions in your shingles from hail, cracks and tears from animals and tree limbs can become detrimental later. In the aftermath of a major storm it is a good idea to have a professional inspect at your roof for signs of battering.

2. Curled or Distorted Shingles

Curled, clawing, cupped edges, buckling or blistering shingles are another thing to watch out for as they usually mean your shingles are more easily broken and make your roof more helpless to wind, water leaks and ice damage.

3. Shelf Life

Shingle and asphalt roofs tend to have a shelf-life of about 20 – 30 years, so if you know your roof is approaching or over its age limit, it may be time to think about getting some repairs done. If your houses were built around the same time and your neighbours are getting their roofs mended this probably means you should consider it as well.

4.    Discolorations and Streaks

While they may seem unimportant, or more related to the roof’s aesthetic appeal than anything else, dark stains on tiles and inconsistent colouring over the length of the roof are other symptoms of a roof in need of repair. Airborne algae usually cause these dark streaks, especially in hot, wetter climates. Discolorations generally mean that parts of tile granules have worn off or paint and sealants have worn away.

5.    Moss, Mildew, and Mould

Moss, mildew, and mould should be top considerations especially if you live in a humid, hot or rainy environment. Moss may seem innocuous, but its roots can get creep under tiles, lifting them up and exposing your roof to water, mould, and bacteria – in addition to rotting it.

Mould, which is usually recognizable by slimy film, fuzzy black, green or brown spots, spreads quickly and demolishes the construction of a building. Both mould and mildew are toxic to breath in.

6.    Sagging Roofline

If you’ve got a sagging roofline, you probably have much more serious problems than peripheral shingle damage! Drooping or depressions aren’t something to take lightly – they can indicate critical structural issues. Sagging usually points to weakened roof material, poorly installed roofing, construction issues or excess weight accumulation. You’ll want to investigate for poorly constructed or broken beams and rafters as well.

7. Flashing Damage

Flashings are metal sheets are vital to making your roof more water-resistant. The flashings around rakes, eaves, skylights, and other parts of your roof are susceptible to dried out caulking, separation, lifting or other complications.

8. Skylight Damage

Cracks in your skylight might initially seem minor but can eventually result in the entire glass shattering and falling in. It goes without saying that this opens up gaps in the roof, makes it much more defenseless to external elements and compromises its integrity.

9. Water Spots/Water Stains

Signs of water infiltration are not always easily visible. Water spots, stains, and other symptoms of a water leak are often found in places you might not expect such as exterior walls, behind appliances and under floor boards. Discolorations, texture issues on ceilings, walls or other areas are an indicator that your roof may need to be inspected.

10. Odours

Detectable unpleasant odours, especially a damp musty smell from your walls and basements are a definite sign of water leak issues which often are the mark of a badly functioning roof system. They usually stem from growth of mould or mildew due to moisture build up and poor air circulation.

Conclusion

A faulty roof can cause all kinds of trouble and even lead to a complete roof collapse if not properly monitored and maintained over time. It can reduce insulation, bring you increased energy and water bills, property value depreciation and be destructive to walls and other parts of your home. Therefore, if you’ve noticed any of the above factors, it is probably time to consider having your roof checked out by a reliable specialist. 

Looking for a reliable roofing contractor? Look no further! Call us now for a free no obligation estimate at 1.855.582.7263 or fill in the form at the top of the page and we’ll get back to you soon!

The post Top 10 Signs That Your Roof Needs Repair appeared first on Reliable Roof Repair.

The roof is one of the single most important aspects of a home when it comes to shielding you and your property from harsh external elements.

Ever wondered how heavy snow, extreme temperatures and high winds can affect your roof? Wonder no more. We’ve explored the impact of the extreme disparities of weather across Canada, and recorded our findings below.

Best Roofs for Cold Weather

As far as countries go, Canada vies with Russia as the coldest nation in the world.

There’s no doubt that the ice and snow associated with these low temperatures take a toll out of your roof. This is especially true for residents of the Yukon, NWT, and cities such as Saskatoon, Regina, and Sherbrooke, who are well-experienced with frigid conditions.

Potential roof damaging problems:

• Icicles often cause damage to shingles and gutters
• The weight of excessive snow and ice piling on your roof, depending on its load bearing capacity, can cause leaks, sagging and even potential roof collapse. This is especially problematic when snow absorbs rain water.
• Ice dams can cause leaks, especially if your roof is not properly ventilated or insulated – which can eventually manifest in mould or rot formation and/or insect infestation.
• Hail stones may not immediately devastate your roof but the impact of them over an extended period can cause leaks, rot and displaced shingles. Common signs of hail damage include: a bruised roofing surface with small depressions, shattered, dislodged, or lost shingles, and loose shingle granules.

The best roof alternatives for a cold climate include:

• Steeper pitched roofs as snow slides off them more easily
• Compact roofs with a reduced surface-to-volume ratio are best for reducing heating costs
• Darker coloured roofs such as dark shingles are ideal for melting snow and retaining heat from sunlight during the Winter
• Rubber roofing are also effective at absorbing heat

Best Roofs for Hot Weather

While Canada is well known for its cool climate, it may surprise you that Canadians invented the UV Index, a measure of the intensity of the ultraviolet radiation when the sun is highest.

We all understand that as the UV increases, the sun’s rays can do more damage to our skin, and eyes, but few of us ever think about the damaging effect of the sun’s heat and UV rays to our roof.The sun is a roof’s most common enemy. Damaging UV rays are on constant offence, even on cloudy and rainy days – breaking down the molecular structure of your roof extremely slowly.

The heat causes many materials to swell. When the temperature dips and they begin to shrink again, brittleness becomes an issue. Wood in your attic area can also be dried out by excessive heat, especially over a long period of time.

Flat roofs

Flat roofs are a common choice for high temperature locales.

Metal roofs

Metal roofs which reflect the sun’s rays are also ideally suited to warmer weather. Other construction methods, such as installing vents and fans in attics may also help them better handle excess warmth.

• White or light shades of metal or asphalt which reflect the sun’s rays
• Metal sheets – may also lower the cooling costs for your home
• Flat roofs or lower pitched roofs – especially in areas with low rainfall
• Tile roofs – clay tiles are a fine option as they shut out heat and are fire resistant
• Algae-resistant materials, especially for humid, tropical environments

Best Roofs for Dry Weather

Do you live in a persistently cold, dry region such as Calgary, Edmonton or parts of drought-prone prairie land like Southern Alberta, which lack the humidity of most other Canadian cities? Or perhaps you’re a resident of hot, semi-desert Osoyoos, BC? If so, this should be one of your deciding factors when choosing a roof.

The best types of roofing alternatives for dry weather include:

• Metal sheets/shingles
• Clay shingles – do not require moisture to stay intact
• Asphalt shingles – especially for hot, dry desert conditions
• Composite shingles layered with asphalt
• Concrete tiles

Best Roofs Wet Weather

If you live in an area like Vancouver or Victoria, BC – which are known for being very rainy and foggy for much of the year – owning a roof that can withstand all that water is probably your primary concern. It’s a lot easier than running around with buckets next time there’s a downpour, after all.

Rain can become very problematic, especially when leaks allow moisture to get into your home and potentially cause thousands of dollars’ worth of damage. Moisture can penetrate cracks in the roof, causing mould, and rot to build up and encouraging insects.

Floods often result in the foundation and walls of a home being tilted and other structural damage, leading the roof to become displaced or potentially collapse.

It’s worth noting that while choosing a sturdy roof is vital, preparing your home to withstand heavy rains and flood conditions also requires ensuring that other parts of your home can hold up to this type of weather. Having a stable foundation and walls makes it less likely for your roof to collapse.

• Flat sheets of metal roofing which are waterproof, resistant to rust, mildew, mould and moss and do not have seams or breaks which allow moisture to seep in
• Steep pitched roofs allowing drainage

Best Roofs Windy Weather

Calgary and Southern Alberta experience extremely windy conditions compared to the rest of Canada. Though we often think that it is mainly severe weather systems like hurricanes which are most hazardous to roofs, even seemingly mild winds may have a negative impact which builds up over time. The slightest disruption or movement to roof tiles, shingles, panels, and metal sheets, caused by wind can leave your house defenseless against other unfavorable elements such as rain. Wind can cause tree limbs to be a destructive force to your home, in addition to other flying debris and tear your guttering.

Two of the most critical types of wind damage your roof is likely to sustain are from tornadoes and hurricanes.

Tornadoes

These wind storms are especially frequent in Southern Ontario. The extreme winds from tornadoes can completely devastate homes within a mere few seconds, ripping off roofs and pulling apart walls.

Hurricanes & Tropical Storms

Uplift pressures, powerful force winds and heavy rainfall from hurricanes naturally pose a major risk to your home. Parts of Eastern Canada, bordering the Atlantic and Nova Scotia in particular are most at risk to the effects of these storms. Even more central areas such as Ontario also often experience heavy winds from hurricanes moving across North America.

In that case, which are the best roofs to protect your home from heavy gusts?

• A reinforced concrete roof – perhaps the best choice for withstanding hurricane and tornado winds
• Concrete tiles
• Metal sheets which are stronger against hurricane winds than shingles
• Rubber roofing
• Fiberglass shingles or composite shingles
• Clay tiles – these are excellent at resisting wind storms and even hurricane force winds

Conclusion: Adapting to Canada’s Fluctuating Weather

Most Canadians are aware of the extreme variations in weather the country can experience within short periods of time. A perfect example of one of the country’s most intense, record-breaking fluctuations would be the temperature climbing from 19ºC to 22ºC within just an hour in Pincher Creek, Alberta. Meanwhile, both the lowest and highest temperatures in the country’s history have been recorded in the city of Regina, which reach plummeted to 50ºC on January 1, 1885 yet climbed to a blistering 43.3ºC on July 5, 1937.

Perhaps, you’d like to find a roof which can adapt to seasonal variations in weather throughout the year, as is common throughout Canada. Some of the most versatile roofs are:

• Concrete stone tiles – they are strong against wind, rain, and heat
• Metal roofs– are excellent insulators regardless of external temperatures
• Slate tiles – while one of your most expensive options, they can withstand virtually any kind of weather

There’s no way to fully protect a roof against any kind of natural disaster. Nevertheless, it will certainly benefit you in the long term, with respect to costs, the time you’ll save and convenience, to be better prepared by choosing a weathertight roof.

Enjoyed this article? See Which is the Best Type of Roof for Me for more roof style advice.

Looking for a reliable roofing contractor? Look no further! Call us now for a free no obligation estimate at 1.855.582.7263 or fill in the form at the top of the page and we’ll get back to you soon!

The post Choosing the Best Roofing Material for Canada’s Versatile Climate appeared first on Reliable Roof Repair.

A vital but often difficult part of your roof repair or replacement project is simply choosing which roofing alternative is best suited to your specific purpose and priorities.

Aside from the more common and popular choices, such as asphalt shingles or metal roofs, there are a plethora of unusual roofing materials which you may not have considered before. Some of these styles be your more viable option, in terms of convenience, pricing or just the overall aesthetic you are trying to achieve.

To make your selection process easier, we’ve done the research for you.

Green Roof/Living Roof

A green roof requires a flat roof surface, a specific construction standard and certain climate conditions (which are conducive to sustaining plant life all year). It provides benefits such as improved insulation and air quality.

The Fairmont Royal York hotel is the location of one of the most well-known green roofs in Toronto.

This type of roof generally consists of, at minimum: a layer of soil for vegetation growth, a waterproof membrane, a drainage system, and a root repellent system.

Green Roofs may be categorized as either Intensive or Extensive:

Intensive: Consists of a growing medium which is deeper and can be used to grow various types of vegetation growth, such as mature trees, in addition to being available as recreational space.

Extensive: Are much shallower, in terms of the layer of top soil they carry, and are built to sustain themselves. They require less maintenance and structural integrity than an Intensive green roof would.

Benefits include:

• Promoting biodiversity in urban areas
• Environmental benefits such as reducing the energy used up in the urban heat island
• Its insulating ability
• Increasing oxygen and improving overall air quality
• Improving storm water management
• Enhancing urban beautification creating more natural, green spaces
• Its ability to be used for growing food

Rubber Roofing

Made from synthetic, single ply rubber, the benefits of these types of roofs are numerous. Rubber roofs are often more environmentally friendly, incorporating recycled material. They usually have a 30-year warranty and plants can be grown on top of them to protect them from further damage, thus further increasing their durability. Rubber roofs provide some of the best leak protection compared to any other type of roofing material.

They are great at reducing heating/cooling thus reducing energy costs in the long term, providing insulation with a water proof membrane. Installation/preparation costs are also reduced as rubber roofing can be installed directly on top of your existing roof.

Better suited to hotter climates, rubber roofs aren’t equipped to handle a large amount of rain and snow. They are also one of the more expensive materials available, ranging from around $300 – $400 per square.

Benefits include:

• Providing excellent leak protection
• Reducing energy costs for heating/cooling
• Decreased installation/preparation costs (if installed directly on a pre-existing roof)
• Their eco-friendliness
• Their structural longevity and durability
• They usually come with a 30-year warranty

Spray-on/Foam Roofing

If appearance or prestige is not one of your main priorities, spray-on polyurethane roofing may be your top choice. It is best suited to flat or low-sloped roofing, or mostly concealed roofing.

SPF/Foam roof is one common type of spray-on roofing. It involves spraying Polyurethane Foam in liquid form onto a roof area. Much like Rubber Roofing, one of its main assets is the way it can be applied over existing roofing material in addition to being used as a roofing material itself.

Foam roofing requires some maintenance, as it needs to be recoated regularly and may experience leaks and tears from animals, tree limbs, or falling debris.

Benefits include:

• Its ability to guard against UV rays
• Inexpensiveness
• Light weight
• Energy efficiency
• Lack of leaks as it has no seams

Tar, Gravel, and Bitumen Flat Roofing

Tar & gravel roofs were a particularly popular roofing style for commercial buildings in the 50s and 60s. They are long-lasting (around 40 years, on average), quick to install, inexpensive and strong against wear and tear, as they are made up of rocks and bitumen.

Unfortunately, these types of roofs tend to be vulnerable to mould, forming in the walls or insulation, especially if there is trapped moisture or poor ventilation. They are also very heavy and require the building they are installed on to have the right structural integrity to withstand their weight. On a more minor note, the smell during installation can also be rather unpleasant.

Benefits Include:

• Quickness to install
• Inexpensiveness
• Strength against wear and tear
• Longevity
• Durability

Clay Tiles

While they do have some drawbacks such as being heavy and expensive, overall Clay tiles may be a worthwhile investment as they are long lasting (between 40 to 50 years) and add a certain aesthetic beauty and elegance. Clay tile roofs mesh particularly well with Spanish, Southwestern, or Mediterranean styled structures.

Benefits Include:

• Appearance
• Longevity
• Durability against insects, storms, and extreme weather
• Fire resistance
• Low maintenance
• Insulating ability

Shake Roofing

Wood shakes are produced naturally, most often from cedar, redwood, or southern pine. Often appealing to people due to their rough, rustic look in comparison to many other types of roofing materials. They are better suited to colder climates, cracking easily in dry and hot conditions. One of the drawbacks of wood shakes is that they are often more expensive than shingles.

Benefits Include:

• Appearance
• Longevity
• Wind-resistance
• Low maintenance

Copper Roofing

Copper offers a unique, exquisite, and warm appearance which works well on both modernistic and vintage-styled buildings. While the main draw of this roofing choice is clearly its aesthetic beauty, Copper provides one of the most durable roofing materials which proves to be economical in the long run with low maintenance costs. The main disadvantage associated with this type of roof is the costs – at roughly four times the cost of asphalt roofing.

Benefits Include:

• Appearance
• Ability to be adapted to curved buildings
• Ease of fabrication
• Longevity
• Durability

Solar Shingles

Photovoltaic roof shingles are an excellent option for home/business owners who are seeking to lower their energy costs while becoming more environmentally-conscious. Experts have noted that an average cluster of about 350 solar panels could reduce household energy bills by about 60%.

Traditionally very expensive to install, the cost has recently been greatly reduced and many governments offer subsidies and incentives.

Benefits Include:

• Lower energy costs and long-term financial benefits
• Environmental-friendliness
• Tax credits/incentives
• Noiseless
• The energy is accessible even in remote areas

Recycled Roofing

Recycled products are increasingly being used as roofing materials as substitutes for traditional roofing types and are said to function just as well. To provide some examples, reclaimed wood, milk jugs, old tires, newspaper, aluminium cans, scrap metal and even carpeting are being used as alternative roofing.

To Conclude

While there are other, more conventional, accepted choices, there are many roofing alternatives for you to think about, which may better fit your needs.

Perhaps cost is an issue? Is the roofing material you want to purchase difficult to obtain in your area? Can’t find a roof which fits your aesthetic tastes? Maybe you’re looking for something slightly different to the norm? If so, you might want to consider some alternatives to traditional roof types.

Looking for a reliable roofing contractor? Look no further! Call us now for a free no obligation estimate at 1.855.582.7263 or fill in the form at the top of the page and we’ll get back to you soon!

The post The Most Unusual Roofing Materials appeared first on Reliable Roof Repair.