Answering Your Roofing Questions and Debunking Myths in Vancouver

I hear this one all the time. Just because your roof isn’t dripping water into your home right now doesn’t mean it’s in perfect shape. Think of it like your car’s engine—you don’t wait until smoke’s pouring out of the hood before checking the oil, right?

Roofs age. Vancouver’s mix of rain, wind, and the occasional snowstorm (which always surprises us as we’ve never seen it before) slowly wears things down. Shingles crack, seals weaken, and a minor issue becomes expensive before you know it.

The best approach is to take a quick look every few years. Are there any shingles curling up, looking loose, or missing? Do you see any dark streaks? Are the gutters clogged? These are all signs that your roof needs some love before things worsen.

I wish this were true. It’s like buying a new car and never washing it or changing the oil, expecting it to run perfectly forever.

Even with high-end materials, BC’s wild weather will take a toll. Moss and algae love our climate (especially in shady areas), and they slowly eat away at your roof. Gutters get clogged, leading to water backing up under shingles. A minor issue can lead to costly repairs if you don’t check on your roof occasionally.

Good news? Essential maintenance is easy. Clear your gutters twice a year. If you see moss starting to take over, clean it before it becomes a whole ecosystem up there. A little effort now can save you thousands later.

This makes me laugh because if we only worked in the summer, we’d all be out of business in Vancouver. Yeah, summer is ideal—drier, more straightforward to schedule—but roofing happens year-round.

We install roofs in winter, too. The key is knowing how to work with the conditions. If it’s raining, we won’t rip your whole roof off (we’re not maniacs). We plan carefully, work in sections, and use waterproof barriers.

In fact, some people prefer winter installations because companies aren’t as booked up, so you might get your roof done faster.

Nope. Metal roofs have come a long way, and they’re a solid option for homeowners, especially with all the rain we get here.

They last decades, handle storms like a champ, and look great—modern metal roofing can mimic shingles, tiles, or even wood shakes. Plus, it reflects heat, so your house stays cooler in the summer.

Are they pricier upfront? Yes. But they pay for themselves over time by lasting longer and needing less maintenance.

Technically, yes, you can… but should you? Not really.

When you layer new shingles over old ones, you’re not fixing the underlying issues. If your old roof had leaks, poor ventilation, or rotting wood, you’re just covering up problems instead of solving them. Double-layering adds extra weight, which your roof structure wasn’t designed for.

Best bet? Strip it down, check everything correctly, and install a new roof.

Alright, I get the appeal. We live in a DIY era—YouTube makes everything look easy. But roofing is one of those jobs where mistakes are expensive.

One wrong step, and suddenly, you’ve got:

A leaky roof

Voided warranties

A trip to the ER because you slipped on a steep pitch (roofs are way slicker than they look)

Trust me, I’ve seen some creative DIY disasters—roof tar poured over leaks, duct tape holding down shingles, and even one guy who tried to patch a hole with a pizza box. Just… don’t. If it’s a minor repair, get a pro to handle it quickly before it becomes a significant issue.

If only it were that simple. A proper roof is a whole system—shingles (or metal, tiles, etc.), underlayment, flashing, ventilation, and insulation. Each part plays a role in keeping your home dry and comfortable.

Example: Ventilation is a huge deal, but most people never consider it. Without proper airflow, heat and moisture build-up in your attic, leading to mold, higher energy bills, and shingle damage. A good roofing job isn’t just about slapping on new shingles—it’s about ensuring the whole system works together.

Oh, if only. Roofing isn’t just about laying down some shingles and hoping for the best. Proper roof installation is about precision—layering materials correctly, ensuring proper ventilation, flashing around chimneys and skylights, and ensuring water drains off instead of pooling where it shouldn't.

A lazy or rushed installation can lead to leaks, premature wear, and a roof that barely lasts half its expected lifespan. Something gets skipped if a roofing crew is in and out in just a few hours with no real prep work or cleanup.

Warranties are excellent… but they don’t cover everything. Most people think a 30-year warranty means their roof is set for three decades, no matter what. Not quite.

Manufacturer warranties usually cover material defects (meaning if your shingles start falling apart too soon, that’s on them).

Artistry warranties cover installation mistakes (if the roofer messes up).

But lack of maintenance, storm damage, or DIY repairs? Not covered.

Many warranties also require proof of regular maintenance, so ignoring your roof for years and then trying to claim a warranty might not go as you expect.

It can help, but a new roof alone isn’t a magic solution to high energy bills. Insulation and ventilation play just as significant a role—sometimes bigger.

If your attic is poorly insulated, your house will still lose heat in the winter and trap heat in the summer, no matter how fancy your new shingles are. Proper ventilation also keeps temperatures balanced, preventing moisture buildup and keeping your roof from cooking itself in the summer.

So yes, a new roof helps, but if energy efficiency is your goal, consider insulation and ventilation, too.

Flat roofs get a bad rep, mainly because older roofing styles didn’t hold up well. But today? Modern materials like TPO, EPDM, and torch-on membranes are incredibly durable if installed correctly.

The key with flat roofs isn’t the slope (or lack of one); it’s the drainage. As long as water isn’t pooling and there’s a proper waterproofing system, a flat roof can last just as long as a pitched one.

If you’ve got a flat roof and haven’t checked it in a few years, maybe it's time to do so. Vancouver’s rain loves to find weak spots.

Nope. Moss isn’t just enjoying the view—it’s actively destroying your shingles.

Moss holds onto moisture, which breaks down roofing materials over time. In the winter, that moisture can freeze and expand, cracking shingles. Left unchecked, moss can shorten the life of your roof by years.

The best approach? Catch it early. A light sweep or gentle cleaning (never pressure washing!) can keep it under control before it becomes a full-blown green carpet up there.

Not even close. Roofing is one of those trades where skill, experience, and attention to detail make a huge difference.

Some companies cut corners—using cheap materials, rushing installations, and poor cleanup. Others take their time, do things properly, and stand behind their work. If you're getting quotes and one is way cheaper than the others, there’s usually a reason (and not a good one).

A good roofing company will:

Actually, inspect your roof before giving a quote

Explain what’s wrong (or not) in a way that makes sense

Offer options without pressuring you

Clean up correctly (you shouldn’t find nails all over your yard)

Do a bit of research, read reviews, and ask questions before choosing a company.

Patching a leak is like putting a Band-Aid on a broken leg—it might hold for a bit, but the real problem is still there.

Leaks often mean deeper issues, like:

Water damage under the shingles

Rotting roof decking

Poor ventilation causes moisture buildup

Aging materials that need replacing

If you find a leak, don’t just slap some roofing cement on it and hope for the best. Figure out why it’s leaking and fix it properly.

Not necessarily. After a big windstorm or heavy rain, most people look for missing shingles or significant water stains. But some damage is subtle—small cracks lifted shingles that haven’t blown off yet, or seals around vents and chimneys starting to weaken.

A quick visual check after a storm is always a good idea. If you’re unsure what to look for, a professional inspection can catch minor issues before they become expensive.

Delaying a roof replacement can sometimes make sense if the roof is still structurally sound. But waiting too long can turn a manageable expense into a much bigger one.

Once water starts seeping in, it affects more than just the roof—it damages insulation, drywall, electrical systems, and even the structural integrity of your home.

The best time to replace a roof is before leaks start causing serious damage. If your roof is getting old (15–20+ years for asphalt shingles, longer for metal or tile), get it checked out and plan ahead.

Sure, that’s the primary job, but a roof also affects:

Energy efficiency (through insulation and ventilation)

Structural integrity (a damaged roof can lead to interior problems)

Home Value (buyers notice if a roof is in bad shape)

Indoor air quality (poor ventilation can lead to mold and moisture issues)

A good roof does way more than sit there, keeping the rain off your head.

This is one of the biggest misconceptions out there. People think, "If I just seal up every little gap, my house will be warmer in winter and cooler in summer!" Sounds logical.

Except it’s completely wrong.

A roof needs ventilation. Without it, heat and moisture get trapped inside your attic, leading to:

Mold growth (because warm, humid air has nowhere to go)

Higher energy bills (hot attics in summer = your AC working overtime)

Ice dams in winter (yes, even in Vancouver, some areas see enough snow for this)

Shingles aging faster (because trapped heat bakes them from underneath)

Ventilation helps cycle fresh air in and out, balancing temperatures and preventing long-term damage. If your attic feels like a sauna in summer or you see condensation in winter, your ventilation might need an upgrade.

I hate to break it to you, but insurance companies love loopholes.

Yes, if a tree suddenly falls on your roof—due to a storm, high winds, or something unpredictable—your homeowner’s insurance should cover it. But if that tree was dead, rotting, or leaning dangerously, they might argue that you should’ve taken care of it beforehand.

The best advice? If you have big trees near your house, get them inspected every few years. A little trimming can prevent a very expensive (and insurance-complicated) problem.

Some leaks are dramatic—you wake up with a water stain spreading across the ceiling, or worse, water dripping into your coffee. But a lot of leaks are sneaky.

Here’s where they like to hide:

Inside walls, causing slow mold growth

Around chimneys, where tiny gaps let in moisture just enough to weaken the structure

Behind insulation in the attic (you won’t see it until damage is already done)

A leak needn’t be a gushing waterfall to be a problem. If you notice a sudden musty smell, warped paint, or unexplained water stains, it might be time for a closer look.

Gutters do way more than keep leaves out of your yard. They actually protect your entire house.

When gutters are clogged or broken, water doesn’t drain properly. Instead, it spills over the edges, leading to:

Water pooling around your foundation (which can cause cracks and basement leaks)

Rotting fascia boards (which hold up your roof)

Ice buildup in winter (because trapped water freezes and expands)

If your gutters haven’t been cleaned in a year, there’s probably something in there that shouldn’t be.

Nope. This is a guaranteed way to shorten your roof’s lifespan.

Pressure washing strips off protective layers weaken shingles and can force water under the roofing material, leading to hidden damage.

Want to clean your roof? Use a gentle moss treatment, a soft-bristle brush, and a proper rinse. If moss is taking over, call someone who can remove it without wrecking your roof.

I touched on this earlier, but let’s go a little deeper.

Yes, summer is ideal—it’s dry, warm, and predictable. But if you wait until summer to book a roofing job, you might end up waiting months because everyone else has the same idea.

Fall is actually one of the best times for a roof replacement. The temperatures are moderate, materials seal correctly, and roofing crews are less slammed than in peak summer.

Winter? Tricky, but not impossible. Spring? Good, but depends on rain levels.

Moral of the story: If your roof is in bad shape, don’t wait until July just because it “feels like the right time.” A leaking roof doesn’t care about your summer plans.

Look, I won’t lie—replacing a roof is an investment. But it’s also one of the most important investments you’ll make in your home.

Plus, the cost of not replacing a failing roof is often way higher:

Water damage inside your home

Structural issues from prolonged leaks

Mold and insulation problems

Higher energy bills from poor ventilation

The good news? There are options. Some materials cost more upfront but last longer (like metal or slate). Others, like asphalt shingles, are more budget-friendly but offer excellent protection.

If you’re worried about cost, talk to a roofer who actually cares about finding the right solution for your home, not just selling you the most expensive option.

I get it—paying someone to look at your roof when there’s no visible issue seems unnecessary. But here’s the deal:

A small problem caught early is a cheap fix. A small problem ignored? That turns into a significant, expensive repair.

Think of an inspection like a dental check-up. Would you rather pay for a cleaning or root canal later?

Metal conducts electricity, but that doesn’t mean it attracts lightning. Metal roofs disperse energy better than traditional materials, making them safer. And no, you won’t be “shocked” if you touch your roof after a storm.

Fun fact: Metal roofs are one of the best options in a lightning-prone area because they’re fire-resistant.

Nobody likes dealing with permits, but trust me—you want them.

A permit ensures that roofing work meets safety codes. If someone skips the permit, it usually means they’re cutting corners somewhere else, too.

If you ever sell your home, buyers (and inspectors) will ask about the roof. If you don’t have proof it was done legally, that can cause problems.

Dark-colored roofs absorb more heat than lighter ones, but here’s the kicker—ventilation matters more than color.

A well-ventilated attic keeps heat from building up, no matter what color your shingles are. If your home roasts in summer, it’s probably an insulation or airflow issue, not just a roof color problem.

Great question. Here’s the thing—your roof won’t just send you a polite email saying, “Hey, I’m done.” It gives signs, and some are more obvious than others.

Look for:

Shingles that are curling, cracking, or missing

Dark patches or streaks (a sign shingles are losing their protective coating)

Sagging areas (this one’s serious—means possible structural damage)

Granules in your gutters (shingles shedding their protective layer)

Leaks or water stains inside your home

If you notice one or two of these, a repair might be enough. If you see most or all of them, it’s time for a new roof.

Technically, yes. But should you? Probably not.

When you replace only half a roof, it ages unevenly—one side looks fresh, the other wears down faster. This can cause issues with sealing, appearance, and even insurance claims.

If money’s tight, I’d help you find a budget-friendly, full-roof option rather than patchwork a solution that’ll cost you more.

Depends on the roof, but for most homes, it’s 1–3 days.

Small homes? Maybe a day.

Larger or more complex roofs? It could take up to a week, especially if a structural repair is needed.

Bad weather? We work around it (because no one wants their living room turned into a rain collector).

Good crews don’t rush but don’t unnecessarily drag it out.

Short answer: Loud. Long answer: Really loud.

There’s hammering, nail guns, compressors—an entire construction site. If you work from home or have pets that hate noise, it’s a good day to take a little break somewhere quieter.

You’d be surprised how often this comes up in Vancouver.

We never rip off more than we can safely cover in a day. If rain is in the forecast, we plan accordingly—tarping everything that needs protection. And if it’s a full-blown storm? We pause and wait for a dry window.

Water getting into your home isn’t an option, so we ensure that doesn’t happen.

Vancouver gets everything—rain, wind, snow, and the occasional heatwave that makes us all question our life choices. You need something that holds up.

Asphalt shingles – Most common, cost-effective, decent lifespan (15–25 years).

Metal roofing is more expensive upfront but lasts 40–50 years, and it handles rain like a champ.

Cedar shakes – Gorgeous, but needs maintenance. It can last 30+ years if cared for.

Flat roofing (for low-slope homes) – Torch-on, TPO, or EPDM are best for waterproofing.

The “best” option depends on your budget and how long you stay home.

Nope. It’s messy and noisy, but you can stay home. Just know that:

There will be constant banging above your head.

You might not want to park in your driveway (falling debris is a thing).

If you work from home and need quiet? Probably not gonna happen.

You can… but you shouldn’t.

Leaks get worse—fast. Water doesn’t just sit still—it moves, seeps, and finds its way into insulation, walls, and electrical systems. A $200 repair today can become a $5,000 nightmare in a few months.

Depends. If your roof has a low pitch. But if it’s steep? Please don’t.

Roofs can be deceptively slippery (especially with our damp climate), and a slight misstep can send you sliding. Use binoculars or call a roofer for a quick inspection instead.

Ideally, every 2–3 years. But you should also check it after:

A significant windstorm (things can shift, even if you don’t see it)

A heavy snowfall (especially if ice dams form)

Buying a home (never assume a roof is fine just because the seller says so)

Moss in Vancouver is like raccoons in your garbage bins—relentless.

To keep it in check:

Trim back trees to reduce shade.

Install zinc or copper strips (they naturally prevent moss growth).

Have your roof cleaned regularly (but NO pressure washing—use soft cleaning methods).

If you already have a moss farm up there, it's best to remove it before it starts eating away at your shingles.

Oh, man. A few highlights:

A full Christmas tree (someone must’ve tossed it up there instead of hauling it to the curb).

A nest of squirrels had chewed through part of the roof to make a cozy home.

A lost drone stuck in a vent pipe (a kid’s, I assume).

An actual barbecue grill (no idea how it got up there).

What is the moral of the story? Roofs collect some weird stuff.

Ignoring minor problems until they become big problems.

A missing shingle today can turn into a full-blown leak in a few months, and a clogged gutter can lead to foundation issues. Roofs don’t just “fix themselves,” so catching things early can save you a ton of money.

Sometimes, yes! A new roof lowers your risk of leaks and storm damage, so some insurance companies offer discounts.

It’s always worth asking your provider. Even if they don’t offer a discount, you can at least have peace of mind knowing your home is well-protected.

That your roof is your home’s first line of defense. It’s not just about looks—it protects everything underneath it. Maintenance goes a long way in keeping your home safe and avoiding massive repair bills.

Also, if your roof is over 20 years old… start planning for a replacement. Waiting until there’s an emergency is never fun.

Technically? Yes. Should you? Probably not.

Here’s why:

It hides underlying problems—if rot, leaks, or inadequate ventilation, layering over old shingles won’t fix it.

It adds extra weight – Roofs are designed for one layer. Adding another can stress the structure.

It makes future repairs harder – Removing two layers costs more when you finally replace it correctly.

If you need a new roof, do it right—strip the old one off and start fresh.

Good question. Could be a few things:

Bad installation – Shingles won't be adequately secured if the last crew rushes the job.

Strong winds – Vancouver’s windstorms can lift and loosen shingles, especially old ones.

Cheap materials – Some budget shingles don’t last.

Your roof is aging – If it’s been 15–20 years, the adhesive seal may break down.

If shingles are randomly falling off, that’s a red flag. Get it checked before a minor issue turns into water damage.

Flashing is like the unsung hero of your roof—the thin metal seals up areas where water loves to sneak in (around chimneys, vents, skylights, and valleys).

Water will find a way in if the flashing is loose, rusted, or cracked. Many leaks aren’t about “bad shingles” but failing flashing.

The moral of the story is that flashing matters. If it’s old or damaged, it needs fixing ASAP.

Depends on the noise.

Creaking or popping – Normal. Temperature changes make wood expand and contract.

Loud bangs at night – Usually thermal expansion. Happens more with metal roofs.

Flapping or rattling – This could be loose shingles or flashing—check before a windstorm worsens it.

Scratching or scurrying – Congrats, you probably have an unwanted guest up there. Birds, raccoons, or squirrels might be moving in. If you hear this, act fast before they start nesting.

There’s steep, and then “this should be a ski slope.”

Steep roofs shed water better, which is excellent for rainy areas (hello, Vancouver). But there are downsides:

More expensive to install – Takes longer and needs extra safety measures.

More challenging to maintain – Have you ever tried cleaning gutters at a 45-degree angle? It’s an adventure.

More wind exposure – Strong winds hit steeper roofs harder, so materials need to be extra secure.

If you already have a steep roof, it’s OK—know that maintenance is trickier.

We covered this a bit earlier, but here’s a deeper breakdown:

Spring is a good time, but Vancouver rain can delay jobs.

Summer – Peak season. Great weather, but roofers are booked solid, so prices can be higher.

Fall – One of the best times. Cool temps help shingles seal properly, and companies have more availability.

Winter – Risky, but possible. If it’s dry and mild, work can still get done.

The real answer? Whenever your roof needs it. If it’s in bad shape, don’t wait just for “ideal weather.”

Yes, and here’s how:

Mold growth – Moisture from leaks can lead to mold, which causes respiratory issues.

Indoor air quality – Trapped dampness affects the air you breathe.

Pests – Water damage can attract bugs and rodents; no one wants that.

If you have allergies or asthma or enjoy breathing clean air, fix leaks fast.

Yep, but not for long.

That “new roof smell” is mostly from fresh asphalt shingles heating up in the sun. It usually fades in a few weeks. If the smell sticks around for months, it could be a ventilation issue.

Good ventilation = a happy, long-lasting roof. Here’s how to check:

In summer – If your attic feels like a sauna, there’s not enough airflow.

In winter, moisture gets trapped if you see condensation or frost inside the attic.

Year-round – Mold or musty smells = lousy ventilation.

Fixing ventilation helps with energy efficiency, prevents mold, and extends your roof’s lifespan.

Trying to DIY without knowing what they’re doing.

I’ve seen:

Tarps “secured” with bricks (guess where the bricks ended up? On someone’s car.)

Duct tape holding down shingles (spoiler: it didn’t work).

Homeowners stepped through their roofs because they didn’t know where to walk.

Some things are worth tackling yourself. Roofing isn’t one of them.

Yes! But… (there’s always a but).

If your roof is older than 10 years, replace it before adding solar.

Make sure your roof can handle the weight.

Work with an installer who understands roofing, not just solar panels (because bad installation can void your roof warranty).

Solar is excellent; plan it right so you’re not ripping things off again in five years.

Living in Vancouver, we don’t just get rain—we’re also in an earthquake zone. Your roof’s survival depends on two things:

The structure underneath – If your home’s framing is solid, your roof has a better chance of staying intact.

The roofing material – Some handle shaking better than others:

Asphalt shingles usually hold up well, but shingles can crack or loosen if the house shifts.

Metal roofing – Lighter and more flexible, which helps during quakes.

Tile or slate – Heavy materials can break or slide off if not appropriately secured.

If your home is older and hasn’t been earthquake-proofed, check it. A strong roof is great, but the house supporting it also needs to be strong.

Yes! Some roofing materials, like slate or clay tile, are heavier than asphalt shingles or metal. If your home wasn’t designed to handle that weight, it can cause structural stress over time.

If you’re considering switching to a heavier roof, have an expert check your home’s framing first. The last thing you want is your roof slowly crushing your house.

Other than the usual suspects (storms, falling branches, raccoons with an attitude)? Here are a few weird ones:

Fireworks – We see this more often than you’d think.

BBQ smoke – Repeated exposure can wear down roofing materials.

Bird poop – It’s acidic and eats away at shingles over time.

Golf balls & hockey pucks – If you live near a course or have a backyard slapshot setup, watch out.

Sometimes, the biggest threats to your roof aren’t what you’d expect.

Not always. A small crack in a shingle isn’t an emergency but a warning sign. Water can seep in, freeze, expand, and make it worse.

A repair might be enough if it’s one or two minor cracks. If cracks are all over, your roof tells you it’s getting old and needs replacing soon.

Vancouver doesn’t get snow often, but when we do, it’s heavy and wet—worse than dry snow.

Too much weight? It can stress the structure.

Freeze-thaw cycles? It can lead to ice dams, which block proper drainage.

Snow buildup? It can refreeze at the edges and cause water backup if it melts unevenly.

A good roof should handle normal snow loads, but if we get one of those “once-in-a-decade” snowstorms, it’s worth monitoring.

Only if it’s causing a problem. Ice dams (where ice builds up at the edges of your roof) can lead to leaks. But trying to break the ice off yourself is risky—both for you and the roof.

Better option? Prevent them in the first place by:

Making sure your attic has good insulation and ventilation

Clearing out gutters so water drains properly

Use roof-safe de-icing products instead of hacking at ice with a shovel (please don’t do that).

The best way? Get someone else to do it.

But if you’re doing it yourself:

Use a sturdy ladder (not one that wobbles on wet grass).

Wear gloves (gutters are full of surprises—usually gross ones).

Scoop out debris by hand or with a small tool.

Flush with water to check for clogs.

If water isn’t draining correctly, check for downspout blockages.

If you hate cleaning gutters, consider gutter guards. They’re not perfect, but they reduce buildup.

First, stay safe—if it’s big enough to cause damage, don’t climb up there yourself.

Check inside for leaks or cracks.

Look from the ground—call a roofer if shingles are missing or something looks off.

Call your insurance company if there’s severe damage.

If it’s minor, a quick repair might be enough, but don’t ignore it—minor issues can worsen quickly.

It’s possible, but not every day. And no, a metal roof doesn’t increase your chances—it disperses electricity better than other materials.

If you’re worried about lightning, a lightning rod system can help protect your home. But statistically, the chances of your roof getting hit are pretty low.

Could be a few things:

A slow, hidden leak (water sometimes takes weird paths before showing up).

Condensation buildup (if your home has humidity issues).

A past leak that was never fixed properly—the stain might be old, but the damage wasn’t repaired.

If you see a new stain, don’t ignore it—figure out the cause before it worsens.

Keep gutters clean – Water buildup is a killer.

Trim overhanging branches – Less debris = fewer problems.

Check for moss or algae – Vancouver’s damp climate makes this a big deal.

Look for missing or damaged shingles – A quick repair prevents more significant issues later.

Ensure good attic ventilation – Heat and moisture cause roofing materials to break down faster.

A little maintenance goes a long way.

Maybe. If your homes were built around the same time and they haven’t replaced theirs, it’s a sign yours might be due soon, too.

Also, if their shingles are blowing off and you live close by, some of their loose debris might end up on your roof, which can cause damage.

Good question! Here are a few ways:

Superb roofing materials – Reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat.

Recycled shingles – Some roofing options are made from recycled materials.

Solar panels – Reduce your energy footprint.

Proper insulation – Helps cut down on heating and cooling costs.

A roof replacement is a great time to make energy-efficient choices that can save you money long-term.

Honestly? A canoe. No idea how it got there. Also, a complete patio furniture set was needed, as if someone was hosting rooftop dinners.

Vancouver roofs see some weird things.

Everything plays a role, but it would be the underlayment if I had to pick one.

Why? Because shingles alone aren’t 100% waterproof—underlayment is the hidden barrier that stops water from seeping into your home when shingles get damaged or worn.

Think of it like this:

Shingles are your jacket

Underlayment is your waterproof liner

Roof decking is your shirt

Without a good underlayment, even a tiny leak can cause significant damage.

Can it be done? Technically, yes.

Should it be done? Not unless absolutely necessary.

Waiting for a perfect dry stretch in Vancouver can feel impossible, but we work around it. If rain starts mid-job, we tarp off exposed areas to keep things dry.

If your roof leaks badly, we might first do emergency repairs and then wait for better weather to replace it

Probably neglecting it altogether.

Roof problems don’t happen overnight—they build up slowly. The worst thing you can do is ignore minor issues like:

A single missing shingle

A tiny leak

Clogged gutters

These little problems turn into expensive repairs if left unchecked.

Nope. If your roof needs protection, it needs repairs, not paint.

Some companies sell “reflective roof coatings,” but those only work on flat commercial roofs. Painting shingles is a bad idea. It can trap moisture, make them brittle, and void warranties.

Look, if you have professional roofing experience—sure.

If not? Absolutely not.

I don’t say this to be dramatic, but roofing is dangerous. Slopes, heights, power tools—one mistake, and you’re in the hospital (or worse). And even if you don’t get hurt, a bad install will lead to leaks, damage, and way more cost.

DIY roofing is one of those things that sounds doable in theory but is a terrible idea in practice.

Birds love warm, dry spots—like under loose shingles, vents, or soffits. If they’re causing issues:

Install bird spikes on ledges.

Use metal mesh over vents.

If they’re nesting, wait until they leave, then block off the area (many birds are protected, so don’t remove active nests).

Pigeons and seagulls are the usual suspects, but woodpeckers can also be problematic (they peck at roofs looking for insects). If they show up, check for signs of bugs in your wood.

Unfortunately, yes. A neglected roof is like an Airbnb for critters.

Common unwanted guests:

Raccoons – I love peeling up loose shingles to nest.

Squirrels – Can chew through wood and insulation.

Rats – If they get in, they will find a way into your attic.

Wasps & bees – Sometimes build nests in vents.

The best prevention is to seal up any small gaps, trim tree branches, and check your attic for signs of unwanted visitors.

In Vancouver’s mild climate, color isn’t a huge deal, but it can make a slight difference:

Dark roofs absorb more heat (better for colder areas).

Light roofs reflect heat (better for hot climates).

Since we don’t often experience extreme heat, choose what looks good and works with your home’s style.

Yes, but it’s rare in residential homes unless something extreme happens, like:

Heavy snow buildup (not common here, but possible).

Too many layers of roofing (old roof + new roof = extra weight).

Structural damage or rot that weakens support.

If you notice sagging areas, get it checked ASAP.

Those streaks aren’t just dirt—they’re algae. Vancouver’s damp climate is perfect for it.

It doesn’t immediately damage shingles, but it can weaken them over time. The best fix?

Zinc or copper strips (natural algae killers)

Soft washing (a gentle cleaning method—NEVER pressure wash shingles)

A few reasons:

Sun exposure – South-facing roofs wear out faster.

Ventilation – Poor airflow = more heat and moisture buildup.

Tree coverage – Good for shade but can trap moisture.

Material quality – Cheap shingles won’t last as long as high-quality ones.

Two houses side by side can have very different roof lifespans depending on these factors.

A few wild ones:

A trampoline blown onto a roof after a windstorm.

Someone used Flex Tape on a significant roof leak (spoiler: it didn’t work).

A colossal raccoon hole—big enough to fit a basketball.

Roofs go through some stuff.

Mold usually means too much moisture, often from:

Poor ventilation

Leaks

Condensation buildup

To fix it:

Find the source of moisture (roof leaks, insulation issues).

Increase ventilation (add roof vents if needed).

Clean the mold properly (don’t just paint over it).

If it’s a small patch, you can treat it. If it’s widespread, call a pro.

Usually not, unless:

If it’s a rental property (then it might be deductible as an improvement),

It’s part of a home office expense (very case-specific).

It’s not a tax write-off for personal homes, but it can increase your home’s resale value.

Mostly material choice and maintenance.

Asphalt shingles – 15-25 years

Wood shakes – 30-40 years (with upkeep)

Metal roofing – 40-50 years

Slate or tile – 50+ years (but heavy and expensive)

If you want a long-lasting roof, use quality materials, and don’t skip maintenance.