Knowledge is Power
Roofing Education Center
Expert guides, maintenance tips, and resources to help you understand, maintain, and protect your most important investment — your roof.
Expert guides, maintenance tips, and resources to help you understand, maintain, and protect your most important investment — your roof.
Browse comprehensive guides and articles across all home improvement topics.
Expert advice on roof maintenance, repair, replacement, and choosing the right materials for Ontario weather.
Comprehensive guides on siding options, installation best practices, and maintaining your home's exterior.
Window and door selection guides, energy efficiency tips, and installation best practices.
Gutter installation, cleaning, and maintenance guides to protect your home's foundation.
Heating, cooling, and ventilation advice for year-round comfort and energy savings.
Improve your home's energy efficiency with proper insulation techniques and materials.
Simple steps you can take to extend the life of your roof and prevent costly repairs.
Inspect your roof twice a year (spring and fall) to catch issues early. Look for damaged shingles, debris, and signs of wear.
Clean gutters and downspouts regularly to prevent water backup and ice dams. Consider gutter guards for low-maintenance protection.
Keep tree branches trimmed back from your roof to prevent damage from falling limbs and reduce debris accumulation.
Use a roof rake to remove heavy snow buildup and prevent ice dams. Never use sharp tools that could damage shingles.
Ensure your attic has proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold and premature roof failure.
Schedule annual professional inspections to identify issues you might miss and maintain your warranty coverage.
Answers to common questions about roofing, maintenance, and home protection.
A: Most asphalt shingle roofs last 20-30 years depending on quality, climate, and maintenance. Regular inspections can help you plan for replacement before emergency repairs are needed.
A: Ice dams form when heat escapes through your roof, melting snow that refreezes at the eaves. Proper attic insulation, ventilation, and sealing air leaks are the best prevention methods.
A: If your roof is under 15 years old with isolated damage, repairs may be sufficient. For roofs over 20 years with widespread issues, replacement is usually more cost-effective.
A: High-quality architectural shingles with impact resistance and algae protection work well in Ontario. Our WindProof™ shingles are specifically designed for harsh Canadian weather.
A: Yes! Lighter colored roofs reflect more sunlight and can reduce cooling costs in summer. However, in Canada's climate, the insulation and ventilation matter more than color.
A: Quality shingles come with 25-50 year manufacturer warranties. At Custom Contracting, we also provide a lifetime workmanship warranty on all installations.
Our team of roofing experts is here to help. Get personalized advice and a free, no-obligation estimate for your roofing project.