While roof minor repairs and maintenance will ensure they last for many years, roofs don’t last forever—unfortunately. When that time comes and you need a roof replacement, you want to choose a new roof shingle that will last and look great. While asphalt shingles are an immediate first choice, there are many other types to consider.
Different types of shingles offer different benefits including style, cost, durability, and efficiency. With this handy roof shingle guide, you’ll learn all about some of thebest shingles in Canada.Once you’re informed, you can make an educated purchase for your new roof.
Signs you need a new roof
Before getting into the specifics of roof shingles, it’s important to know when you need to get new shingles. Waiting until your roof fails brings serious safety risks and unnecessary emergency costs. Premature replacements are just as wasteful if your roof is still in good condition. If you know the signs of a failing roof, you can plan ahead and start a budget for a replacement. It also gives ample time for some research into a good new shingle option.
Start with the warranty
An easy and quick check is to find out when your roof was replaced or if it has ever been reroofed. Reroofing can be done once and involves installing a new layer of shingles over the old roof. That is possible if your roof structure is in good condition and if there is only one layer of existing shingles. Most cities don’t allow three layers of shingles, so after two layers, the roof will need to be stripped and redone. Depending on the material, the best roof shingles can last between 20 to 50 years. If your roof is reaching the end of its lifespan, it’s worth planning a replacement before it fails.
Visual damage inspection
While roofing should never be DIYed, a visual inspection can still show signs of damage or wear. If there are extensive problems, like curling or cracked shingles, moss growth, and loose flashing, call a professional. The same goes for finding lots of granules in the gutters, which means the roof is starting to fail. A professional can safely climb onto the roof and inspect it up close for problems. If the damage can’t be easily repaired or the cost is too high, consider that a new roof may be more cost-effective.
Interior damage
A final check, and a sign of serious problems, is if there are interior problems. Look for stain marks on the ceiling, which indicates leaks coming from the roof. Checking the attic can also reveal problems like light shining through the ceiling. Holes and cracks risk water or unwanted pests getting into the attic and causing even more extensive damage. Given time, the damage can risk a breakdown of the roof structure itself. Roof failure is costly and a serious safety risk that is avoidable with proper roof care and replacement.
What to look for in new shingles
When looking at the new best roof shingles Canada, it can feel overwhelming with all the different styles and choices available. Understanding the different types and their benefits will help you pick the right shingles for your home. That includes understanding styles, price-points, the protection offered, and overall efficiency.
The style
Because most shingle materials can mimic the look of others, there aren’t a lot of restrictions when it comes to appearances. Metal roofs, for example, can mimic the look of shingles, wood, or tiles. Wood shingles offer a traditional and more rustic design. Each type of roof shingles also comes in a wide range of different colours, so you can easily further customize the look.
The right pick will help boost your home’s curb appeal, so consider some complementary styles. The best way to get ideas is to look at what neighbouring houses have or consider your home’s architecture. Mediterranean homes will look stunning with a tiled roof, while a modern home will benefit from a complementary metal roof.
Durability
Do you live in an area that gets lots of snowfall and freezing temperatures? Or is it often rainy and stormy? Weather factors play a big role since your roof acts as the first line of defense against it. Without the right match, the roof could deteriorate and not last its full lifespan. Metal roofs can help reflect heat away from your home, making them great for hotter areas. If you live near the ocean, then aluminum roofs are resistant to corrosion from the sea salt. Asphalt is great for any weather as it is a durable material. A professional can also help when choosing the right best shingles Canada.
Efficiency rating
While colour can play a role in how efficient your roof is, there are other ways to boost that rating. ENERGY STAR certified shingles are designed to be more efficient and so provide better savings. They reflect more sun and heat, which helps keep your home’s temperatures more level and comfortable. Another way to boost efficiency is to add roof ventilation to your attic. That will help cycle out excess heat in the attic and draw in cooler air from outside. Not only does that increase efficiency, but it also helps further extend the lifespan of your roof.
Best shingles in Canada
Now that the factors and considerations surrounding shingles are clearer overall, it’s time to look at some of the specific best shingles in Canada. These shingles are made for Canadian climates and winters and offer great savings with long lifespans. No matter what your needs or budget, any shingle you pick will be a great investment.
1. Asphalt Shingles
Lifespan:20+ years (depending on shingle style)
Resistant:strong winds, snow, hail, sun, fire, pests
Cost:$
One of the most popular shingles choices among homeowners is asphalt shingles. Across the board, this type of roofing offers the best of everything. It is the least expensive to buy and install, has a lifespan of 20 to 50 years depending on the product, and is incredibly durable. The material is perfectly balanced in weight, so the shingles won’t be torn off in strong winds or add excess weight to the roof. It is fire-resistant, can withstand extreme cold or heat without damage, and is eco-friendly to top it off.
Design-wise, asphalt comes in a range of different colours to better complement any home. Choosing a lighter coloured shingle will help keep your home’s temperatures cooler and efficiency up. The shingles themselves can be further customized with one of two looks:
Three-tab shingles
These shingles offer a more flat, uniform appearance. They cost less and are easy to install. The downside is that the shingles are less durable against harsher weather or strong winds. As a result, their lifespan is shorter and lasts upwards of 15 years. Still, if budget is a key factor, then three-tab shingles are a good choice.
Architectural shingles
The increasingly popular second option is architectural shingles. These shingles are installed in an alternating, layered pattern that adds great visual interest and depth to your home. They are even more durable as a result and can stand up to stronger winds without damage. Cost is the main downside as architectural shingles are much more expensive. Still, if you plan to stay in your home for many more years, then the cost is worth the investment. With a lifespan of up to 30 years, you won’t have to worry about your roof anytime soon.
2. Metal shingles
Lifespan:40 to 80 years (depending on the type of metal)
Resistant:strong winds, snow, hail, sun, fire, pests, mould, rust
Cost:$$$
Thanks to the advancement in metal roofing, it’s quickly becoming a popular candidate for best roof shingles Canada. Metal shingles are easy to install, come in a wide range of styles, colours, and different metals. A metal roof will last 40 to 80 years before it needs to be replaced, and most warranties cover up to 50 years.As for being energy efficient, metal roofs rank very high. They naturally reflect away heat and light, which helps keep your roof and home cool.
The main drawback of metal is the much higher cost compared to other materials. Metal roofs are often priced with premium rates, but you can recoup the cost over the years. According to Remodeling Magazine’s cost vs value 2020 report, a metal roof can recoup 61.2%. It’s also likely that you won’t ever have to replace the roof again, making the investment worthwhile with the right budget.
There are four main types of metal shingles to consider:
Steel
The least expensive of the metal roofing options and one of the most commonly used metals. Its lower cost doesn’t mean less durability, as steel is just as energy-efficient and robust as other metals. Steel is also completely recyclable, making it a great green roof option. Galvanized, galvalume, and weathering steel are the three main types of steel available. Galvanized has a layer of zinc added to protect against interior corrosion. Galvalume uses a combination of aluminum and zinc to similarly prevent corrosion. Weathering steel is commonly used for construction and intentionally allows the exterior to rust to protect the interior steel.
Aluminum
The second least expensive option and a great choice for coastal homes. Unlike steel, aluminum is naturally resistant to rust and corrosion. Like most metals, aluminum is completely recyclable, while its high efficiency keeps your home cool. However, it is lighter weight, so strong hail has a higher risk of causing damage.
Copper
It can be the most expensive option but also the longest lasting. Copper is also 100% recyclable, making it a great option for eco-friendly homes. Despite being a soft material and prone to hail damage, it is one of the quietest metals. Durability-wise, it can last for 50 years, if not more, with proper maintenance. Over time, copper will oxidize and change from its orange colouring to a greener shade.
Zinc
Zinc has a natural ability to “heal” scratches and minor damage to its surface. Its protective patina is to thank for that, as it naturally reforms over time. That also means a virtually maintenance-free roof, so there are fewer added costs for repairs over the years. Like all metals, zinc is just as resistant to insects, fire, and fungus growth. The main downside is that zinc is almost as expensive as copper.
3. Wood shingles
Lifespan:30 to 40 years (with regular maintenance)
Resistant:strong winds, snow, hail, insects (cedar)
Cost:$$
Wood roofing is among the most aesthetically appealing choices, but it also has the highest maintenance. Still, the visual aesthetics of wood shingles can’t be beaten for the best roof shingles. Wood roofs can come as shingles or shakes, which offer different visual styles. Shingles are cut into thin sections for a uniform and clean appearance. Shakes are sawn and hand-split to create a more rustic appearance.
Cedar is the most common choice for wood roofs, as it offers many natural benefits. For example, despite being a wood, cedar itself is resistant to insects and other pests. Like most wood, cedar roofs are incredibly energy efficient. They provide natural insulation that can maintain your home’s temperature and help save on those monthly energy bills.
The only downside is that it does need more maintenance to ensure the roof lasts for its full lifespan. Clearing away leaves and debris will prevent moisture from getting trapped and rot from settling in. Another consideration is that—over time—untreated cedar shingles will begin to fade and change to a silvery grey. While many homeowners find this appealing, not all do. It doesn’t affect the shingles’ integrity, but if you don’t want the change, keep the shingles sealed with treatment.
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4. Tile shingles
Lifespan:upwards of 100 years (given the right climate)
Resistant:strong winds, hail, fire, insects, rot
Cost:$$$
If you like the low maintenance and long lifespan of metal roofs, tile shingles are another great option. With proper installation, they can share the same durability that metal roofs provide. Tile shingles can come in a range of different types and materials. The most popular materials for best shingles Canada are either clay or slate. The tile itself can last upwards of 100 years, given the right climate and professional installation, but you won’t get a warranty for that long!
It is also resistant to rot, insects, and decay. Unless a tile is physically broken, the roof itself has virtually zero maintenance.Tile roofs are one of the top energy-efficient options and greatly help regulate interior temperatures to cut monthly bills.
There are some important considerations with tile, starting with its weight. Since tile is a heavier material, your roof’s structure must be in good condition and able to support the roof. Serious impact damage can also cause damage to the tile, like falling branches or severe hailstorms. Lastly, tile is a more difficult material to install. It requires a professional with the right experience and skill to ensure your roof is properly sealed and protected.
5. Rubber shingles
Lifespan:30 to 50 years
Resistant:strong winds, extreme climate, leaks, fire, insects
Cost:$
Perhaps a surprising choice of material to some, rubber roofing is nonetheless a well-worthwhile choice. Unlike other roof materials, rubber has more benefits than it does drawbacks. Its cost is similar to that of asphalt, making it a great budget-friendly option. The material is also made from recycled rubber like tires, so it’s another great green option. Despite needing little maintenance, rubber roofs will easily last 30 to 50 years with professional installation. Rubber shingles are also incredibly durable, making cracks, weather wear, or leaks very unlikely. Even in extremely hot or cold climates, the shingles won’t crack or turn brittle.The material itself is also made to cut cooling costs and not absorb excess heat.
The only drawback of rubber shingles is that a skilled roofer is needed to install the roof properly. An inexperienced roofer can cause problems and costly repairs down the road. Appearance can also be a drawback to some homeowners, but rubber roofs can be painted to change their look.
Call a professional roofer
Roofing installation and detailed maintenance should never be DIYed. It comes with too many personal risks, safety hazards, and costly repairs without the right experience. A professional roofer can safely handle any installation, and they have the right tools for the job. They’ll ensure your roof won’t leak with the first rainstorm or blow loose on a gusty day.
If you need help choosing the right shingle or between two options, a roofer will also help. They’ll inspect your roof to suggest the right fit for your budget, home, and lifestyle needs. Whether that’s a curb appeal boost, better efficiency, or just a roofing material that will last for years, a roofer can help.
Ready to equip your home with the best roof shingles? Find RenovationFind certified roofers today!
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FAQs
Canada’s 5 Best Roof Shingles — RenovationFind Blog? ›
Top 5 Architectural Shingles Of 2023. The top 5 shingles are from GAF, Owens Corning, Atlas, CertainTeed, and Malarkey. While the fire resistance of their laminated shingles is similar, what makes them different is their composition, nailing technology, color options, and cost.
What are the top 5 roofing shingles? ›Top 5 Architectural Shingles Of 2023. The top 5 shingles are from GAF, Owens Corning, Atlas, CertainTeed, and Malarkey. While the fire resistance of their laminated shingles is similar, what makes them different is their composition, nailing technology, color options, and cost.
What are the best shingles for Canadian winter? ›Asphalt shingles can withstand rain, snow, fire, and moderate hail. They\'re lightweight, meaning your roof won\'t undergo added pressure from the material. We consider asphalt one of the best roofing shingles because they\'re also easy to repair.
What are the best shingles for extreme weather? ›Metal roofing is a great choice for homes in places with extreme winter weather. Snow and ice slide down metal roofs, relieving any worries about standing water on the roof. Metal roofs with standing seam panels and rib panels are among the most resilient and weather-resistant roofing systems on the market.
What color roof shingles last the longest? ›From the above information, we can conclude that color doesn't determine the durability of shingles. Both light-colored and dark-colored shingles can last longer if given the necessary maintenance.
What is the best color roof for Canada? ›Shades of brown, black and grey are the top choice across Canada. There are certain regional differences, however. At BP, brown and black shingles are tied for first place in eastern Canada. The Atlantic provinces prefer black, while homeowners in western Canada favour a grey-roof look.
What color shingles hold up best? ›Light shingles fair better in warmer weather, as light colors tend to deflect sunlight and keep your house cooler. Dark shingles are the opposite; they absorb heat, which makes them excellent for colder climates. They also tend to make snow melt much more quickly. No interest and No payments for 2 years.
What color of shingles is the most efficient? ›White is the best color for energy efficiency because of the albedo effect. With a white roof, or a roof with a color that has similarly lighter hues, the sun's rays are reflected instead of absorbed.
What is the best roof to increase home value? ›The Remodeling Report for 2019 found that a metal roof, on average, cost homeowners $38,600 and increased home value by 60.9 percent. Compare this to their findings for asphalt roofs, where the average homeowner spent $22,636 and got a return of 68 percent.
What color roof is best for climate? ›White or light-colored roofs reflect heat rays from the sun, keeping the attic and rooms below it cool during warm weather. As a result, the building's cooling load decreases, helping home and business owners stay comfortable and save money on their energy bills.
What style roof lasts the longest? ›
Concrete, clay, and slate tiles have an average lifespan of 100 or more years. They are without a doubt the materials that last the longest but are also, bar none, some of the most expensive. Slate roofs are often called the “forever roof” because they can last seemingly forever.
What shingles are best against wind? ›Fiberglass shingles are a particularly good choice in high wind areas, as they are a strong product which is unlikely to come apart. Not only is it important to pick a good product like a quality fiberglass shingle, but you also need to be sure that those shingles are installed properly.
What are premium shingles? ›Premium Shingles are usually described as laminated shingles that have a differentiated appearance from traditional dimensional shingles. These products may have designs that mimic “old-world” roofing shingles, like natural slate or natural shake shingles, to provide an enhanced aesthetic appeal.
What are luxury shingles? ›Luxury (also called premium) asphalt shingles are what the name says; they're the luxury line of asphalt shingles. They're designed to look like slate tiles that give your roof a look that stands out compared to the other types of asphalt shingles. But their curb appeal isn't the only thing that sets them apart.
What are 2 disadvantages to asphalt shingles? ›- It's not the most durable roofing option. ...
- Shingles can be damaged by high winds. ...
- Mildew is a common problem. ...
- It isn't the most energy-efficient option.
Founded in 1951 in eastern Canada, IKO has plants across North America and Europe. They are the world's largest exporter of asphalt shingles, providing shingles to 96 countries around the globe. IKO provides asphalt shingles for every budget.
Are luxury shingles worth it? ›These premium shingles have multiple layers and enhanced patterns, making them more stylish, durable, and energy-efficient. Luxury shingles can withstand heat, hail, heavy rains, and snow storms better than any other shingle type. With proper upkeep, luxury shingles can last for 50 years!
Should the roof be darker or lighter than the house? ›Most contractors agree that roofing and siding should contrast in color. Light-colored siding works best on a home with a dark-colored roof—and vice versa. A darker roof with lighter siding is common and naturally pleasing to the eye. However, the reverse can look amazing, too.
What color roof keeps a house the coolest? ›White roofing products stay coolest in the sun, reflecting about 60 – 90% of sunlight.
Do darker roof shingles make the house hotter? ›In general, dark-colored roofing materials will absorb the heat and cause your attic and/or the top of your house to be warmer than a lighter colored material.
What color roof makes a house look taller? ›
Dark-color roofs recede to minimize a home's visual mass and downplay roof-peak height differences; lighter roofs do the opposite, causing homes to look bigger and roofs to look taller.
What color roof looks best on a gray house? ›Gray House Roof Colors
Overall, try not to steer too far from your siding color when working with gray. Much like brick, gray can jump between warm and cool hues. If the gray siding mixes with tan, opt for a brown or sand roof. If it's a cool, blue tan, pick black, gray, or slate.
A general rule of thumb is that lighter roof shingles go best with a light palette of paint choices for your house. Darker-colored shingles complement the same tones in your home's paint accents.
What color roof is best for resale value? ›If you're someone who needs a more technical answer, this article explains that roofs with good resale value tend to be neutral-colored. This includes tan, brown, black, and gray.
Which shingles are Energy Star rated? ›Owens Corning™ ENERGY STAR® rated shingles can help reduce your energy bills when installed properly. These shingles reflect solar energy, decreasing the amount of heat transferred to a home's interior— and the amount of air conditioning needed to keep it comfortable.
Do black shingles increase electric bill? ›In general, darker roofs will absorb heat, while lighter roofs will absorb less heat. This means that having a black roof on your home can require you to use your cooling system more often in the summer. Not only can this increase your energy bills, but it can also put more strain on your system.
Are black roof shingles a bad idea? ›Black roof shingles absorb heat, forcing it downwards into the house. This extra heat can end up keeping your attics pretty toasty, even forcing your HVAC unit to work harder to keep the rest of the home cool in the summertime. This can increase utility bills during the hot months of the year.
What adds the biggest value to a house? ›- Kitchen Improvements. If adding value to your home is the goal, the kitchen is likely the place to start. ...
- Bathrooms Improvements. Updated bathrooms are key for adding value to your home. ...
- Lighting Improvements. ...
- Energy Efficiency Improvements. ...
- Curb Appeal Improvements.
Replacing Your Roof
While a new roof can be expensive, it's also statistically proven to be one of the top exterior renovation projects to check off your list in terms of value. In fact, a new roof can typically yield a return of 107% of its original cost.
The labor and time it takes to install your new roof
Installing a roof takes skill, takes time, and is labor-intensive. This makes labor and time two huge reasons why a new roof costs so much. If anything takes time and labor during the project, it shows up in pricing.
What is the most versatile roof color? ›
White: White and white shingles are perhaps the most versatile shade to work with when you're deciding what color roofing shingles or materials you want. You could really do practically any color roof from black to gray to brown, blue, green, or go for a monochromatic look with a white roof.
What type of roof is very popular in warm climate? ›Metal Roofing
Metal roofs are popular in tropical regions. They are durable, cost-effective and resistant to the harsh weather conditions of the tropics. In addition, they are naturally water-resistant and often do not require an additional water barrier like some other coverings.
Your roof needs to be part of your home's color composition. For instance, red brick houses look nice with dark brown, deep gray or black shingles. Light gray houses look smart with dark gray roofs. Beige or cream houses can work with brown, warm gray or even colored shingles.
What roof is most expensive? ›The most expensive type of roofing material is slate.
For labor and materials, you can expect the cost of a slate roof to start around $15.00 per square foot and has the potential to get up to around $30.00 or more per square foot.
Asphalt Shingles: 15 – 30 Years
Inexpensive and reliable, asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material but also one with the shortest lifespan.
Most asphalt shingles last between 15 and 30 years – based on your area's weather conditions and climate. The type of asphalt shingle also influences its lifespan: Three-tab shingles last from 15 to 20 years and are the cheapest option. Architectural (dimensional) shingles last from 20 to 30 years.
What is number one shingles? ›Specially developed shingles with optimized price and durability, high life cycle and colors which are extremely durable. NUMBER ONE shingles have a European standard CE label and warranty coverage from IKO for their quality.
What are the most popular shingles? ›- Atlas.
- CertainTeed.
- GAF.
- IKO.
- Owens Corning.
- TAMKO.
1. Asphalt shingles. The first roof shingle (and most commonly used around the country) are asphalt shingles. Asphalt shingles, and other asphalt roofing components, make up the bulk of an asphalt roof system.
What type of shingles are the most expensive? ›Slate. Slate is by far the most expensive roofing material on the market. It's ten times more costly than the average asphalt shingle as it pairs well in Gothic, Tudor, Chateau or other expensively styled, historic-looking homes.
Are some shingles better than others? ›
Fiberglass shingles offer more resistance to fire, heat and moisture, while organic shingles are more resistant to high winds and tearing.
Is Owens Corning the best shingle? ›Their wide selection of asphalt shingles are some of the best on the market, and every year they set out to continue to prove themselves. Owens Corning shingles are some of the most affordable, high-quality roofing products on the market — they're so good that they're used by over half a million customers every year.
Are two layers of shingles better than one? ›Two layers of shingles trap more heat, which in turn damages the shingles and shortens the life span of the roof. Savings: Saving on the initial shingle installation doesn't solve the long-term cost of adding a second layer of shingles.
What color shingle is best? ›If your home has a traditional look, then neutral roof shingle colors like gray, brown, or white will be best. If your home is more modern, bolder red or dark blue colors will look great. Also, make sure that whatever color you choose doesn't clash with any other colors on the property.
What color roof is best for resale? ›If you're someone who needs a more technical answer, this article explains that roofs with good resale value tend to be neutral-colored. This includes tan, brown, black, and gray.