Types of residential roofs in Winnipeg
ASK US, DENALI EXTERIORS, YOUR WINNIPEG ROOFING COMPANY, WHICH SHINGLE IS BEST FOR YOU
When it comes to replacing your residential roof in Winnipeg, most of us automatically think of the standard quo for shingles, which are asphalt shingles or composition. There are, in fact, a lot of different options for your roof; however, some of those options are not suited to Winnipeg’s climate and drastic temperature changes. Regardless, we’ll still list out all the options in this article, as it’s better to have fuller knowledge than less knowledge.
Types of Residential Roofs
Asphalt or Composition Shingles
By far the most common type of shingles used in Winnipeg, asphalt and composition shingles are the status quo all over. Organic materials, such as waste paper, wood fiber, cellulose, and others, are completely saturated with an asphalt solution, which make the shingles waterproof. Then a coating of adhesive asphalt is put on the top. Ceramic granules are then embedded into the shingles. These shingles are then ideal for all climates and temperatures.
Solar Panel Roofs
With the advancement in solar technology, solar panel roofs are now somewhat affordable, and able to generate significant power that can be used to power your home or other structure. It takes experienced, professional Winnipeg roofers to install solar panel roofs. Solar cells within the individual glass tiles heat up and transfer energy to where you need it. If you are going to install a solar panel roof, make sure you choose a spot on your roof that gets sunlight all day.
Solar Shingles
Solar shingles are the latest, maybe greatest, thing coming to a corner store near you. Although there have been several manufacturers that have solar shingles on the market, Tesla is coming out with what is supposed to be a solar shingle that revolutionizes the entire industry. These solar shingles will be installed directly onto your roof as opposed to solar panels, which are raised. As of the time of writing this article, Tesla solar shingles are not yet available in Canada.
Clay or Cement Tiles
Although clay or cement tiles are fairly common in certain places, you won’t readily see these in Winnipeg, as they can become brittle and break when exposed to extreme cold weather. As opposed to clay tiles, cement tiles are a more ideal option as they are stronger and heavier, which mean that they can withstand lower temperatures than clay.
Faux Slate
Faux slate is a roofing surface that looks like slate but is significantly less and a lot lighter, which means less stress on the structure. It is an attractive material, but unlike real slate, will not crack or break as easily in lower temperatures.
Wood Shakes and Shingles
Wood shakes and shingles are durable, as they can withstand snow, ice, wind, and low temperatures. They can be used in most places as they provide sufficient protection. As a bonus, they are also aesthetically pleasing.
Metal Roofing, Shingles, and Shakes
Metal roofs can sometimes be seen in colder climates because the ice and snow will slide off the metal surface easily, which will prevent the buildup of weight, icicles, and leaks. If you buy the metal for your roof during a period of time when metal costs are low, it can be quite affordable. But, as metal prices can fluctuate, the metal option can also cost you more than it might if you wait for the price to lower. Usually, snow guards and heat cables can be installed so the sheets of snow don’t slide off all at the same time. In a climate like Winnipeg, one issue with metal roofs can be the noise during rain storms since the metal doesn’t absorb the sound very well.
Copper Roofs
Copper roofs are usually more expensive than other metal roofs simply due to the fact that copper is a more expensive metal. However, when a copper roof is well-maintained, it can last for many decades, perhaps even a century or more. The upsides to copper roofs are that they have curb appeal, are durable, and can be significantly energy efficient when properly installed.
Slate
Slate is not common in Winnipeg or other cold climates, as it can crack or break when exposed to very cold temperatures. Also, it’s not very good with ice and snow. Apart from that, it’s also quite expensive and is very heavy. However, if you live in a warmer climate, this could be the type of roof for you. Be warned, however, that extra supports might need to be installed due to its extra weight.
Green Roofs
Green roofs, which are also known as living roofs, use living materials to make green spaces on your roof. For proper drainage, a waterproof membrane is installed and then growing material is applied. Green roofs can be sufficiently energy efficient, but there are special requirements and considerations that you would need to evaluate first. Being more popular in Europe, green roofs assist in providing green spaces and minimize heat from building up in populated areas. One downside to green roofs is that they can be much more expensive than other types of residential roofs, not to mention the extra attention to planning and execution.