The Ultimate Guide to Roofing Materials in Vancouver and where to buy them

Best Roofing Materials for Vancouver Roofing: Pros, Cons & Expert Picks (2025 Guide)

I’ve spent years on ladders all around Vancouver, Surrey, Delta, and beyond, and I’m excited to share the key details. In this guide, we’ll look at major roofing materials—from everyday asphalt shingles to cedar shakes, metal, tile, slate, flat-roof membranes, and even green roofs—plus where to buy them, a few real-world scenarios, and a final wrap-up of essential takeaways. 

Quick Summary (What You’ll Find Here)

1. Asphalt Shingles: Budget-friendly, various brands like IKO, GAF, CertainTeed, Malarkey.
2. Metal Roofing: Durable, stylish options from Westform, Vicwest.
3. Cedar Roofing: Classic West Coast charm, requires consistent upkeep.
4. Clay & Concrete Tiles: Heavier, Mediterranean look, long-lasting.
5. Slate Roofing: Premium natural stone, near-endless lifespan.
6. Torch On Roofing (Modified Bitumen): Reliable choice for flat or low-slope roofs.
7. Single-Ply Membranes (PVC, EPDM, TPO): Popular for flat roofs, each with unique benefits.
8. Green Roofing: Eco-friendly, reduces stormwater runoff, offers natural insulation.
9. Local Suppliers: ABC Supply (formerly Cedar Grove) for asphalt, metal; Surrey Cedar for shakes/shingles.
10. Key Scenarios: Which material works if you’re on a budget, need a heritage look, or want a forever roof.

1. Asphalt Shingles: Reliable and Budget-Friendly

Why Choose Them?

• Cost-effective and easy to find in Metro Vancouver.
• Installation is relatively straightforward; a standard option across Canada.

Top Brands

• IKO (Calgary-based): Offers Marathon (3-tab), Cambridge (architectural), and Dynasty/Nordic (reinforced, high-wind performance).
• GAF: Known for Royal Sovereign (3-tab) and Timberline HDZ (architectural).
• CertainTeed: Known for thicker shingles (Landmark, Landmark Premium) that can handle wet climates.
• Malarkey: Uses polymer-modified asphalt, upcycled materials (Highlander, Vista, Legacy) for greener, flexible shingles.

Takeaway: For affordability and a decent lifespan of 20–30 years, asphalt remains the go-to. Opt for architectural lines for better curb appeal and longer warranties.

2. Metal Roofing: Modern Looks and Lasting Durability

Why Choose It?

• Long lifespan (40+ years), excellent for West Coast rain.
• Many style options: corrugated, standing seam, snap-lock.

Key Providers

• Westform: Panels in 29, 26, or 24 gauge steel, plus protective coatings.
• Vicwest: Well-known for SuperVic, Ultravic (exposed fastener) and standing-seam systems.

Considerations

• Proper underlayment and venting reduce noise or condensation worries.
• Thicker gauges (26 or 24) stand up better to wind and coastal conditions.

Takeaway: For low-maintenance roofing that can handle rain and wind, metal is a worthy (though pricier) alternative to shingles.

3. Cedar Roofing: The West Coast Classic

Why Choose It?

• Natural insulation, iconic Pacific Northwest aesthetic, works on various architectural styles.
• With correct ventilation and upkeep, it can last 25+ years.

Shakes vs. Shingles

• Shingles: Thinner, sawn for an even look.
• Hand-Split Shakes: Thicker, rougher, rustic finish.
• Tapersawn Shakes: Sawn on both sides but thicker than standard shingles, a good middle ground.

Grades

• #1 Premium (Blue Label): Mostly heartwood, minimal knots, best for longevity.
• #2 Select (Red Label): Some knots, still acceptable for many homes.

Where to Buy

• Surrey Cedar: Dependable source for consistent-grade cedar shakes/shingles.
• Other local mills in BC also provide Certi-Label products.

Takeaway: Cedar’s stunning but needs regular moss removal, occasional staining or treatment, and solid attic ventilation.

4. Clay and Concrete Tiles: Traditional Beauty, Tough Performance

Why Choose Them?

• Highly durable, distinct look from Spanish barrel tiles to flat modern profiles.
• Naturally fire-resistant and excellent in rainy weather, but quite heavy.

4.1 Clay Tiles

• Brands: Ludowici (heritage lines), Boral Clay (e.g., Barcelona 900).
• Pros: Impressive longevity, colour baked in, big aesthetic appeal.
• Cons: Higher cost; requires structural check for weight.

4.2 Concrete Tiles

• Brands: Boral Concrete, Eagle Roofing (Capistrano, Bel Air), Monier.
• Pros: Mimics clay or slate, robust in damp conditions, slightly cheaper than clay.
• Cons: Still heavy; can fade over decades (though many have improved coatings).

Takeaway: If you love the Mediterranean or classic look and your roof can handle the weight, clay or concrete offers a 40+ year lifespan.

5. Slate Roofing: The Centuries-Old Stone

Why Choose It?

• Natural stone that can last 80–100 years or more, top-tier in longevity.
• Visually distinct, adds heritage charm.

Natural vs. Synthetic

• Natural: Quarried rock, heavier, premium cost, requires a very skilled installer.
• Synthetic (DaVinci, EcoStar, CertainTeed Symphony): Lighter, more budget-friendly, still offers a slate-like look.

Takeaway: Ideal for homeowners seeking an ultra-durable “forever” roof with an upscale, old-world aesthetic—assuming your budget and structure support it.

6. Torch On Roofing (Modified Bitumen): Flat-Roof Favourite

Why Choose It?

• Proven track record on low-slope/flat roofs, tough and waterproof.
• SBS-modified asphalt stands up well to our West Coast rain.

Popular Brands

• Soprema: Sopralene, Colphene lines (Canadian-based).
• IKO Torchflex: Reinforced membrane for durability.
• GAF Ruberoid, CertainTeed Flintlastic: Other recognized systems.

Installation Basics

• Base Sheet: Mechanically fastened or self-adhered.
• Cap Sheet: Torched on top, creating a fused layer.
• Optional mid-ply for extra protection.

Takeaway: Great for commercial buildings or residential flat roofs that need a strong, layered membrane.

7. Single-Ply Membranes (PVC, EPDM, TPO)

Why Choose Them?

• Popular choices for flat or low-slope areas, each with unique perks—flexibility, heat welding, or cost.

7.1 PVC

• Brands: Sika Sarnafil, Duro-Last, Carlisle.
• Pros: Hot-air welded seams, strong chemical resistance, reflective.
• Cons: Pricier than TPO or EPDM.

7.2 EPDM

• Brands: Firestone, Carlisle, GAF (EverGuard EPDM).
• Pros: Rubber-based, flexible, budget-friendly.
• Cons: Seams rely on adhesives/tape; keep them maintained.

7.3 TPO

• Brands: Carlisle Sure-Weld, GAF EverGuard TPO.
• Pros: Welded seams, typically more cost-effective than PVC, reflective surface.
• Cons: Quality depends on brand formulation; pick one with a proven track record.

Takeaway: Ideal for roofs with minimal slope. PVC’s strong but costs more; TPO’s mid-range; EPDM’s a solid economy pick.

8. Green Roofing: Bringing Nature On Top

Why Choose It?

• Reduces stormwater runoff, improves insulation, creates a mini ecosystem in urban zones.
• Great for biodiversity and lowering heat island effects.

Extensive vs. Intensive

• Extensive: Shallow soil (2–6”), sedum/grass, lower maintenance.
• Intensive: 6”+ soil, can grow shrubs or small trees, more weight and upkeep.

Systems to Know

• LiveRoof: Modular trays with pre-grown plants.
• Soprema Sopranature: Layered approach (root barrier, drainage boards, specialized soil).
• Columbia Green: Highly customizable for stormwater management.

Takeaway: If you want an eco-friendly, visually unique roof and can handle the structural load, green roofs offer both environmental benefits and a striking aesthetic.

9. Local Suppliers: Where to Buy

• ABC Supply (formerly Cedar Grove Supply): Big selection of asphalt shingles (Malarkey, IKO, GAF, CertainTeed) plus metal panels, underlayment, and more.
• Surrey Cedar: Top spot for cedar shakes/shingles, consistent grading, local BC wood.
• Other Distributors: Specialty roofing suppliers in Vancouver, Burnaby, Delta stock torch-on membranes (Soprema, IKO), single-ply systems (Carlisle, GAF), and so forth.

10. Real-World Scenarios: Which Material Fits?

Scenario A: Budget-Friendly and Time-Limited

• A mid-level asphalt shingle (e.g., GAF Timberline HDZ, IKO Cambridge) suits a 20-year plan nicely.

Scenario B: West Coast Heritage Vibe

• Cedar shakes for authenticity, or a cedar-look asphalt line like CertainTeed Presidential Shake if you want simpler upkeep.

Scenario C: Modern Minimalist

• Consider a standing seam metal or TPO membrane for sleek lines, minimal fuss, and good longevity.

Scenario D: Your “Forever” Roof

• Look at slate, metal, or top-tier tile to avoid mid-life replacements. Pricier initially, but they may outlast you.

11. Common Myths

• “Metal roofs are loud in the rain.”With proper underlayment and insulation, noise typically isn’t an issue.
• “Cedar fails quickly in rainy climates.”Quality #1 cedar, correct ventilation, and maintenance handle moisture fine.
• “Green roofs always leak.”Modern systems include robust waterproofing and drainage layers.
• “Flat roofs perpetually pool water.”Proper slope (even 2% can help), drainage points, and periodic checks avoid ponding.

12. Key Takeaways

• Focus on Our Climate: Vancouver’s consistent moisture means you want materials with good water resistance, algae or moss safeguards, and proper ventilation.
• Choose Quality Installers: Even the best products fail if poorly installed. Ask about flashing, underlayment, and local references.
• Long-Term vs. Short-Term: If you’ll stay put for decades, premium materials (metal, slate, tile) could be more cost-effective over multiple cycles. If not, a solid asphalt shingle may suffice.
• Maintenance Is Crucial: Clear gutters, watch for moss, and schedule an annual inspection to catch minor issues early.
• Match Your Style and Budget: Whether it’s cedar for rustic charm, metal for modern lines, or asphalt for a balance of cost and reliability, each material shines in the right scenario.

Final Thought
Armed with this information, you’re prepared to pick a roofing material that stands up to our rainy Metro Vancouver conditions. Whether it’s the rustic appeal of cedar shakes, the low-maintenance strength of metal, or the simple affordability of asphalt shingles, your final choice will depend on budget, home style, and how long you plan to stay. Don’t hesitate to reach out to local suppliers or experienced contractors for any additional specifics—they’re used to answering detailed questions in a climate that loves to test every roof’s resolve.