Frequently Asked Questions

Calgary's weather presents unique challenges: Hailstorms (June-September) can crack shingles and damage underlayment. Chinook winds reaching 120+ km/h cause shingle lifting and debris impact. Rapid temperature swings (up to 30°C in hours) create expansion/contraction stress. Heavy snow loads and freeze-thaw cycles lead to ice dams. We use weather-resistant materials and installation methods specifically designed for Calgary's climate, including Class 4 impact-resistant shingles and enhanced ice/water barriers.

Yes, but with limitations. We can perform emergency repairs year-round. For full replacements, we prefer temperatures above -10°C to ensure proper shingle sealing. Winter installations require special adhesives and techniques. We monitor weather windows carefully and may recommend waiting for chinooks or scheduling for early spring if possible.

The ideal roofing season in Calgary is from May to October when temperatures are consistently above freezing and weather is more predictable. However, we can work year-round. Spring and early fall are particularly good as they avoid summer hail season and winter temperature extremes. We'll work with your schedule and monitor weather forecasts to find the optimal installation window.

Ice dams are common in Calgary due to our freeze-thaw cycles. Signs include: icicles hanging from gutters, water stains on interior ceilings/walls, ice buildup along roof edges, or damaged gutters. Prevention involves proper attic insulation and ventilation. If you notice these signs, call us immediately to prevent water damage - we offer ice dam removal and prevention solutions.

Most residential roof replacements in Calgary take 1-3 days, depending on size, complexity, and weather. A standard 2,000 sq ft home typically takes 1-2 days. We include time for proper disposal, cleanup, and final inspection. Weather delays are communicated immediately.

We recommend architectural asphalt shingles with high impact resistance (Class 4) for most Calgary homes. These handle our extreme weather well and many insurance companies offer discounts. Metal roofing is excellent for longevity but costs more initially. Cedar shakes require more maintenance in our climate.

We always recommend complete tear-off and replacement. Alberta building code allows up to 2 layers, but installing over old shingles can hide damage, add excess weight, void warranties, and reduce the new roof's lifespan. Our quotes include full removal, disposal, and inspection of the roof deck to ensure a proper, long-lasting installation.

Installation time varies significantly by material: Vinyl siding typically takes 3-7 days for an average Calgary home, as it's the quickest to install and weather-friendly. James Hardie fiber cement siding requires 7-14 days due to its weight (300 lbs per 100 sq ft vs 60-70 lbs for vinyl) and specialized installation techniques. Wood/cedar siding takes 5-10 days because it requires careful moisture barrier preparation, precise cutting, and skilled craftsmanship. Timeline factors include home size, architectural complexity, weather delays, and any necessary repairs to underlying sheathing.

Spring and fall are optimal for siding installation in Calgary. Vinyl siding must be installed between 4-27°C (40-80°F) to prevent brittleness in cold or expansion issues in heat. James Hardie can be installed year-round but works best in moderate temperatures for proper handling. Wood siding benefits from dry conditions to prevent moisture absorption during installation. Avoid winter installation when possible due to material brittleness and worker safety. Summer installation requires careful timing to avoid extreme heat that causes vinyl expansion. We monitor weather forecasts closely and adjust schedules to ensure optimal installation conditions.

Calgary siding costs vary significantly by material (2025 pricing): Vinyl siding: $7-12 per sq ft installed - most affordable option with easy maintenance and good durability for Calgary's climate, with costs depending on vinyl quality (basic builder-grade vs premium ColorHold™ technology). James Hardie fiber cement: $15-22 per sq ft installed - premium pricing for superior durability, fire resistance, and hail protection, with labor costs typically $4-9 per sq ft. Wood/cedar siding: $11-16 per sq ft installed - traditional option requiring higher maintenance in Calgary's climate. Factors affecting cost include home size (typical 1,800 sq ft home: vinyl $12,600-18,000, Hardie $27,000-39,600), architectural complexity, removal of existing siding, underlying repairs needed, and current material availability. While vinyl has lower upfront costs, James Hardie often provides better long-term value through durability and potential insurance discounts, especially important given Alberta's extreme weather conditions.

Calgary's extreme weather significantly impacts siding performance: Vinyl siding handles freeze-thaw cycles well but can become brittle below -15°C and may fade from intense UV exposure. It expands up to 1/2 inch per 12-foot section annually. James Hardie excels in Calgary's climate - it's engineered for extreme weather, resists hail damage, won't rot or burn, and maintains color integrity through chinooks and temperature swings. Wood siding faces the biggest challenges: moisture from snow/rain causes expansion, freeze-thaw cycles create splitting, and our dry climate leads to cracking. Proper sealing every 3-5 years is essential for wood in Calgary's climate.

Maintenance needs vary dramatically by material: Vinyl siding requires minimal maintenance - annual washing with mild detergent, checking for loose panels after windstorms, and ensuring proper drainage. Occasional caulking around windows/doors. James Hardie needs very little maintenance - inspect annually for damage, touch up any chips in painted surfaces every 10-15 years, and ensure trim remains properly caulked. Wood/cedar siding is high-maintenance in Calgary's climate - requires restaining/sealing every 3-5 years, regular inspection for moisture damage, immediate repair of any splits or gaps, and professional treatment for insect/fungal issues. Calgary's UV exposure and temperature extremes accelerate wood deterioration.

Winter siding installation is possible but limited: Vinyl siding becomes brittle below 4°C and can crack during nailing - we avoid installation below -5°C. Emergency repairs are possible with special techniques and careful handling. James Hardie can be installed in winter with proper precautions, though we prefer temperatures above -10°C for optimal handling and worker safety. Wood siding installation should be avoided in winter due to moisture concerns and expansion/contraction issues. We monitor chinook windows for winter installations and may recommend emergency tarping until spring for major projects. Ice, snow, and short daylight hours also impact winter installation efficiency and safety.

Siding lifespan varies significantly in Calgary's harsh climate: Vinyl siding lasts 20-30 years with proper installation and maintenance, though UV fading may require earlier replacement for aesthetic reasons. High-quality vinyl with UV inhibitors performs better. James Hardie fiber cement lasts 50+ years in Calgary - it's specifically engineered for extreme climates and backed by 30-year warranties. Many installations exceed warranty periods. Wood/cedar siding lasts 15-40 years depending on maintenance quality - well-maintained cedar can reach 50+ years, but neglected wood may need replacement in 10-15 years due to Calgary's UV exposure, moisture cycles, and temperature extremes. Proper installation and regular maintenance are critical for all materials.

We work directly with all major Alberta insurance providers to streamline your claim. Most policies cover hail and storm damage. We provide detailed inspection reports with photos, meet adjusters on-site, help interpret coverage, and can often bill insurance directly. Our team advocates for you to ensure all legitimate damage is covered. We're experts in Calgary-specific issues like hail damage classifications. Some insurers offer premium discounts for Class 4 impact-resistant shingles.

You receive comprehensive dual protection: Our 10-year workmanship warranty covers any installation-related issues - if anything goes wrong due to how we installed your roof, we fix it at no charge. Manufacturer warranties cover material defects for 25-50 years depending on the product. As GAF Master Elite contractors, we can offer enhanced warranties combining both for up to 50 years of coverage. Keep all documentation and schedule regular maintenance to preserve your warranty.

Roof replacement in Calgary typically ranges from $5,000-$15,000 for average homes, depending on size, material choice, and complexity. Factors include: removal of old shingles, decking repairs, ventilation upgrades, and material quality. We provide detailed written quotes with no hidden fees.

Yes, we understand roof replacement is a significant investment. We offer flexible payment plans and can connect you with third-party financing partners. We also work with your insurance company for claim-related work and can often arrange direct billing.

Most Calgary roofs last 15-25 years depending on material and maintenance. Warning signs include: missing/curled shingles, granules in gutters, daylight through roof boards, or sagging. If your roof is 15+ years old, start planning for replacement within 5 years.

Quote variations often reflect differences in: quality of materials (basic vs. premium shingles), scope of work (some may skip important items like ice shield or ventilation upgrades), disposal methods, insurance and WCB coverage, warranty terms, and company overhead. Beware of extremely low quotes - they often lead to corners being cut. We provide detailed quotes showing exactly what's included.

We provide 24/7 emergency services for active leaks, storm damage, and structural concerns. Response time is 2-4 hours for true emergencies. For storm damage assessments, we typically inspect within 24-48 hours. We maintain emergency crews and material stock specifically for Calgary's frequent severe weather. We'll immediately tarp or temporarily seal damage to prevent further issues, then schedule permanent repairs based on severity and weather conditions.

First, stay safe - don't go on the roof yourself. Inside: move valuables, place buckets under leaks, and if safe, access your attic to find the source. The leak's origin is often uphill from where water appears inside. Call us immediately at 587-224-6494 for emergency service. Document damage with photos for insurance. We'll provide temporary protection to prevent further damage while arranging permanent repairs.

Yes, if damage is localized and the rest of the roof is in good condition. However, patching old roofs can be temporary, and matching aged shingles is challenging. We'll honestly assess whether repair or replacement is more cost-effective long-term.

We recommend annual inspections, ideally in late spring or early fall. Additional inspections are wise after major hail storms, severe winds, or heavy snow winters. Regular inspections catch small issues before they become expensive problems. With Calgary's extreme weather, preventive maintenance can double your roof's lifespan. Our inspection includes interior (attic) and exterior assessment with detailed photo documentation.

Absolutely. Properly functioning gutters prevent water from backing up under shingles, causing rot and ice dams. In Calgary's freeze-thaw climate, clogged gutters are especially problematic. We recommend cleaning gutters twice yearly (spring and fall), ensuring downspouts direct water 4-6 feet from your foundation, and installing gutter guards to reduce maintenance. During roof replacement, we inspect and can upgrade your entire drainage system.

Key steps include: Keep gutters clean and functioning, ensure proper attic ventilation to prevent ice dams, trim overhanging branches that could damage shingles, remove snow buildup (carefully) after heavy storms, schedule annual professional inspections, repair minor damage promptly before it spreads, and ensure adequate attic insulation. Our maintenance program covers all these aspects and can add 5-10 years to your roof's life.