Upgrading your roof is a big decision. Whether you’re facing a necessary repair or considering a new roof installation, understanding the terminology and materials used can help you make informed choices. Roofing isn’t just about shingles—it involves a variety of components, each playing a critical role in the performance and longevity of your roof.
Here’s a breakdown of essential roofing terms and materials every homeowner in Southwestern Ontario should be familiar with, especially if you’re new to roofing.
1. Roof Drip Edge: Protecting the Edges of Your Roof
A roof drip edge is a metal strip installed along the edges of your roof to help water flow off it rather than seeping underneath the shingles. It protects the roof’s edges, fascia, and underlying components from water damage.
Most homeowners overlook the importance of a drip edge roof, but it plays a crucial role in preventing rot and protecting your home from water-related issues. A homeowner in Hamilton we worked with didn’t even realize his roof was missing a drip edge until it started causing problems with the gutters and siding.
2. 3-Tab Roof Shingles: A Classic Choice
3-tab roof shingles are one of the most common types of roofing material. These traditional asphalt shingles are named for their uniform cut, which gives them a neat, flat appearance. They are lightweight, affordable, and effective for most homes, but may not be as durable as other options.
If you’re looking for an economical option, 3-tab shingles are great, but homeowners looking for longer-lasting solutions often opt for architectural shingles or timberline shingles.
3. Snow Guards and Roof Snow Brakes: Winter Protection
Snow guards and roof snow brakes are essential for homes in Ontario’s snowy regions. These devices are installed on the roof to prevent large amounts of snow from sliding off in one sheet, which can cause damage to your gutters, property, or even people below.
Many homeowners in Milton have found that adding snow guards dramatically improves safety in the winter months, as it controls the movement of snow and ice off their metal or steeply sloped roofs.
4. Chalking: A Common Roof Issue
Chalking refers to the whitish residue that can form on the surface of roofing materials, especially metal roofs, over time. It’s caused by the breakdown of the pigments in the roofing material due to exposure to sunlight and weather conditions.
While chalking doesn’t typically affect the performance of the roof, it can be an aesthetic concern. We recommend talking with your roofing contractor about coatings that can help minimize this over time.
5. Timberline Shingles: High-Quality Asphalt Shingles
Timberline shingles are a premium type of architectural asphalt shingle made by GAF, one of the leading roofing manufacturers. They’re thicker and more durable than standard 3-tab shingles, offering better wind resistance and a more dimensional appearance.
We recently installed Timberline shingles on a home in Burlington, and the homeowner loved the classic yet high-quality look it gave their house. Timberline shingles also come with enhanced warranties, making them a great investment for long-term durability.
6. Step Flashing: Key to Waterproofing
Step flashing is a piece of metal installed at roof-to-wall intersections, chimneys, and skylights. It ensures that water running down the roof is directed away from these areas, preventing leaks and water damage.
Most homeowners don’t realize the importance of step flashing, but poor or missing flashing can lead to significant water infiltration. This is one of the first things we check when a client reports a leak around chimneys or dormers.
7. Ice Guard: A Winter Roofing Essential
If you live in a snowy region like Ontario, you’re probably familiar with ice dams. An ice guard is a protective membrane installed beneath the shingles in vulnerable areas (like valleys and eaves) to prevent ice from penetrating your roof.
An ice guard is crucial in our region, and we highly recommend it for every roof installation. A customer in Halton saw significant improvement after we added ice guard protection to their older roof. Now, they no longer worry about water seeping in during the winter thaw.
8. Roof Ridge Cap: Finishing Touch for Protection
A roof ridge cap is the topmost part of your roof where two slopes meet. This area needs special shingles or metal flashing to cover and seal the ridge. Without it, water, snow, and debris can penetrate your roof, causing leaks.
Ridge caps also improve ventilation when paired with ridge vents, allowing warm air to escape from the attic and prolonging the life of your roof.
9. Built-Up Roof (BUR): A Long-Lasting Flat Roof Option
If you have a flat or low-slope roof, you may have heard of built-up roofs (BUR). This type of roofing consists of alternating layers of bitumen and reinforcing fabrics, creating a durable, weather-resistant surface.
While BUR roofs are often used on commercial buildings, some residential properties in Ontario with low-slope roofs may benefit from this system. It’s designed to withstand heavy snow and water accumulation, making it a solid choice for our climate.
10. Drip Edge Roof: Why It’s Non-Negotiable
You might think we’re repeating ourselves, but it’s because so many homeowners are unaware of the critical role a drip edge plays. Adrip edge roof prevents water from seeping back under your roofing material. It’s often overlooked in quick roof replacements but is essential to the long-term health of your roof.
Social Proof: What Ontario Homeowners Say About Roofing Materials
We’ve worked with hundreds of homeowners across Southwestern Ontario, helping them make the right choices for their roofs. Here’s what some of our clients have to say:
“I had no idea what a drip edgewas until Platinum Roofing explained it to me during a consultation. After they added it, the water damage around my eaves stopped!” – Sarah P., Hamilton
“When I first heard about snow guards, I wasn’t sure if they were necessary, but they’ve made such a difference during the winter. Now I don’t have to worry about ice damaging my gutters.” – John M., Milton
Conclusion: What Every Homeowner Should Know About Roofing
Understanding your roof’s components and the various materials available can help you make smarter decisions for your home. Whether you’re looking to replace old shingles, install snow guards, or ensure your roof has proper flashing and a drip edge, being informed ensures you’re getting the most out of your investment. If you’re considering a roof upgrade or repair in Hamilton, Oakville, Burlington or, anywhere in Southwestern Ontario, contact us today at Platinum Roofing. We’ll walk you through every step of the process, making sure your roof is built to withstand Ontario’s unique weather conditions.
