How to Prevent Ice Dams and Damage

Vancouver has some of the trickiest winters since we experience rapid changes in temperature. Which can cause some trouble with our homes, especially with the roofs over our heads. When the temperatures dip below freezing and ice and snow build up on your roof, it cause plenty of damage. Which will be expensive to fix. Let’s see below How To Prevent Ice Dams and Damage.

During prolonged cold spells where snow and ice are allowed to accumulate on your roof. It can quickly build up into increasingly large blocks of ice or what are called ice dams. An ice dam not only weighs down your roof but stops water from running into your gutters and away from your home. This will cause the water to pool on your roof, causing water damage and leaks to your home’s interior walls and insulation. If left untreated, mold will form which will most likely mean you’ll have to replace your roof. Here are some tips to help prevent ice and snow buildup from causing major problems.

Prevent Ice Dams and Snow Build Up

Roofs are of course built to withstand a certain amount of weight. But if snow builds up and becomes too heavy your roof can collapse. Although this isn’t common in Vancouver, we do have bad snow storms every couple of years. If this is the case, you need to keep an eye on your roof and clear it once the storm has passed. A good general rule is that you never want more than a foot of snow on your roof at any one time. You can clear snow yourself with a rake or a shovel or call us at Cambie Roofing and we can take care of it for you.

Clear the Gutters

If Vancouver has a prolonged cold spell, it is common for ice to build up in your gutters and freeze them. If the ice builds up too much, the gutters can expand and cause them to shatter. Another common issue is that the ice becomes too heavy and can rip the gutters away, causing extensive damage to your home. You can chip the ice from gutters, but that can be extremely dangerous and you can damage your gutters. A better solution is to give us a call at at Cambie Roofing we can ensure the gutters are cleared properly so you don’t have to risk doing it yourself.

Keep the Attic Cold

As you know, heat rises in your house and gets trapped in the attic. Poor attic insulation and ventilation causes hot air to escape in the wrong places and rapidly heat the roof which melts the snow too quickly. These causes water to flow until it hits a cooler section of the roof. Usually toward the overhangs that aren’t in contact with the attic’s warm air and leads to ice build up and ice damns.

You should ensure you seal any gaps in your attic floor to stop warm air from seeping in. And make sure your attic is adequately insulated. Before the cold sets in, check the events to make sure they aren’t being blocked. While it might seem strange to add insulation for warmth but it allows cold air to come in through the vents, giving your attic some much needed air flow. The insulation also prevents moisture from building up in the attic. And keep the roof cool enough to prevent ice dams.

Insulation Issues

Insulation is a barrier of material within your roof space. It can either be laid between the horizontal beams along the floor of your attic or the rafters as a way to keep heat in your home. Check the insulation to see if it needs to be repaired. Although insulation lasts a long time, it does degrade and will eventually need to be replaced.  If heat is escaping through holes or areas that aren’t insulated then it can lead to uneven water pooling and trapped moisture. One thing to look out for is dark streaks in your attic or ceiling. If you see these dark streaks it means that water has seeped through and you should call a roofer immediately to get your roof repaired.

What To Do In Spring

Once the snow melts and winter has passed, you should inspect your property for signs of poor ventilation.  If you can catch these problem before they cause damage to your home. You will be able to save yourself some money and much needed headache.

You should always be vigilant and do your own inspections every couple of months. Simply walking on your roof with a good pair of binoculars can help you spot any trouble signs. However, your own inspections aren’t substitutions for a professional. You should always get a certified roofing contractor to do an inspection every six months. Because they will see something or notice a small detail that you can easily overlook.

The Solution

Those glistening icicles hanging from your roof may look beautiful. But, they can also be a telling sign that something isn’t draining the proper way. Icicles can be a telltale sign that water or snow are forming on your roof. That preventing melting snow from escaping through the gutters. Spending the time and money preventing ice dams is much more economical than having to deal with the potential fall out of ice dams.

If you are worried about potential ice dams developing on your roof, call Cambie Roofing to perform an inspection. Our expert roofers can quickly diagnose any problems with your roofing system. And perform maintenance to save you the trouble of dealing with ice and water damage. That possibly preventing you from having to replace the entire roof all together.

Originally published Feb. 2019.
Updated and republished Jan. 2024

Types on metal roofing systems

Metal systems covers a wide variety of roofing systems and can mean many different styles and materials. Steel, stainless steel, aluminum, copper, and zinc alloys are all materials used for metal roofing. Each has different properties that affect durability, price, and appearance.

What Types of Metal Roofs are out there?

Before making a decision on what type of metal roof you want, you need to know what types of are available. There are different types that impact price and performance that you should be aware of. It is important that this knowledge weighs in on your decision. You don’t want to make a decision to repair your existing metal roof, only to find out later that you have a metal roof that is a poor insulator and it would be worth your money to upgrade.

Conventional Metal Roofing Materials

By far, the most common materials used for metal roofs are steel and aluminum which can be used for a variety of different roofing systems. Steel, used for most metal roofing, is heavier and sturdier than aluminum. Manufacturers have settled on a number of durable coatings and finishes that protect steel from rust and corrosion. Steel is usually zinc-coated for corrosion protection and then sealed. A coating of primer offers adhesion and a baked-on acrylic top coating adds colour and protection. Because sheet systems are designed for commercial applications, they generally are given highly durable paint finishes.

Aluminum, extremely lightweight, is used for some residential metal roofing. It won’t rust, but it must be painted or coated for appearance. Coatings are similar to those used on steel. Aluminum is a very soft metal, so it dents and mars easily and isn’t nearly as rigid as steel. Aluminum-alloy coatings provide corrosion protection, but they react with alkaline chemicals in masonry mortar and cleaning solutions that might spill on the metal’s surface during construction.

Types of Metal Systems

Systems tend to fall into three distinct categories based on panel size and attachment method. Sheet metal shingles or tiles are stamped sheet metal with decorative finishes and textures. Commercially available tiles simulate clay tiles or cedar shingles, and they come in other decorative shapes. Metal tiles are very light and can be susceptible to high winds. You should be aware of wind ratings for your neighbourhood. Metal tiles might not be right for your building. Metal tiles also are susceptible to crushing if technicians or others walk on the surface.

Sheet metal panels. These panels also are hydrokinetic roofing systems and are most applicable for roofs with a steep slope. Panels are available in a variety of profiles, sizes and thicknesses. Heavier-gage metal panels are suitable for applications such as warehouses and attach directly to the structural framing. The economic advantage of direct-attachment systems is the metal panels provide the structural diaphragm, roof sheathing, and waterproofing.

Different Types of Metal Roofs

R-Panel

R-Panel metal roofs are the low-maintenance metal roofing option. Their easy installation cuts own on labor, time, and disposal costs, so costs for the entire project are kept low. These roofs are also available in many different colours that look very nice on a roof. These roofing systems are very popular for both residential and commercial roofing systems. Their ease of installation has helped to make them a very popular flat metal roofing option. As with all metal roofing systems, these systems are prone to rusting and should be frequently painted or coated to combat this problem.

Corrugated

This is the classic metal roof, common on many older barns and shacks; the “original” metal roof. Corrugated metal panels are now often galvanized and used on restaurants and retail establishments to create a classic feel. Corrugated metal roofs integrate well with fiberglass skylight panels because they typically have similar patterns and structural designs. Moreover, Corrugated metal roofs have been around for a long time and they have stood the test of time.

Architectural Standing Seam

This roofing system provides superior wind uplift protection and resistance to water than other metal roofing systems because of the way the panels interlock. They are extremely tightly constructed and provide a watertight seal that is superior to all other metal roofing systems. Many manufacturers apply a sealant to the panels in the factory, which works to maintain the structural integrity in thermal variations.

Modular Press

Modular Press panels are painted interlocking panels with standard dimensions and shapes and are growing in popularity for residential applications. They may be steel, aluminum, copper, zinc, or terne metal.
The roof panels are attached with hidden fasteners directly to the roof deck in most applications. They are usually 4-way interlocking to provide exceptional wind up-lift resistance.

High-End Metal Roofing Materials

Other forms of metal roofing are also available but can be very expensive. However, if you can afford them, they provide stunning roofs on luxury homes. Copper metal roofing, rooted in centuries of use, will not rust, has no “finish” to scratch or peel, is soft enough to easily tool, and weathers naturally to a beautiful verdigris patina. Unfortunately, it’s extremely expensive. Alloy roofing products are formulated for strength, graceful weathering, and durability. Cost depends on the specific material, but, as a group, they are pricey. Stainless-steel roofing, a very expensive roofing material, won’t rust or corrode. Terne coating can give it a natural matte-gray finish.

Maintenance

Lastly, we should look at how to maintain a metal roof so it lasts as long as the building. Roofers should walk directly over joists and purlins to prevent accidental bending or dishing of sheet metal roof panels. They also should minimize foot traffic on sheet metal roofs because scratches can expose the steel sheet, creating the potential for corrosion. Roofers and owners also should be careful not to scratch the surface when walking on or cleaning debris off a sheet metal roof. This will ensure you get the most out of your metal roof.

Conclusion

Metal roofing systems can be a cost-effective and viable choice for new and replacement roofing. Taking care in selection, design and installation will result in an attractive, low-maintenance solution. Call us at Cambie Roofing if you think about installing a metal roof or need an estimate.

Originally published Jan. 2018. Updated and republished Dec. 2023

Licensed roofing: do roofers need to be licensed?

If you’re looking to hire a roofer or roofing company, it’s critical to choose one that is properly trained. Whether you wish to have your roof inspected after a rain storm or your roof is in need of repairs because of old age, it is essential that you choose a qualified, licensed roofing contractor. This is because roof work can be dangerous. If an unqualified person works on your roof, he made do more harm than good, and can cost far more money than you initially agreed upon. In addition, if he’s not licensed and insured, you could be liable is he’s injured on the job.
Residential builders must obtain a building permit in B.C. Additionally, they must provide home warranties covering the building. Even if municipalities don’t require the builder to be licensed, they still need to arrange a home warranty for the build.

Hiring any Licensed Residential Builder in B.C. gives homeowners an advantage if they build new homes. Licensed Roofing builders are covered by mandatory warranty insurance. This warranty is attached to the home itself, and can last even if you end up selling your home.

The warranty can cover:

• labour and materials
• building envelope
• roofing structure

Do Your Due Diligence

You can check to see if the builder you intend on hiring is in good standing with the Better Business Bureau and Public Registry of Residential Builders. The Licensed Residential builder is responsible for making sure their sub/contractors are properly licensed up to provincial standards as well.
It is the residential builder’s responsibility to make sure their electricians and plumbers are properly licensed.
Once you have chosen a licensed Roofing Expert, make inquiries about his reputation. Listen to the recommendations of your friends and family members. If you need complex, skilled work done, ask the roofer for previous job locations and visit them. See what condition the repairs are in and ask the homeowners what they think about the quality of the work.

If you’re having a new roof put on, the roofer should always provide a warranty. If you need a small section repaired, discuss warranty options with the contractor. Also, make sure to get a contract in writing that specifies all the costs involved. Aside from labor and material costs, make sure that the contract includes cleanup. You don’t want to be left with a dirty yard when the roofing work is done, and have to call a landscaper just to put things back in order. Because your roof is so important, you shouldn’t cut corners when selecting a contractor. Always hire a licensed Roofing professional, and be sure to ask around about his reputation and past jobs.

Education and Certification

In British Columbia, tradespeople can attend a variety of educational institutions to learn their trades. Only designated training providers can issue Industry Trade Authority (ITA) credits.
Regulated trades are monitored for consumer protection to ensure health and safety. In order to perform work in a regulated trade, the worker must be a registered apprentice with the ITA, hold a Certificate of Qualification, or be licensed for their regulatory trade.

However, uncertified individuals who have extensive experience in the field can take a Challenge Exam. This exam tests the individual’s knowledge, and provides them with a proper certification if they pass the exam. Challenge exams allow tradespeople to bypass full programs if they have sufficient knowledge of their trade.
The Red Seal certifies highly skilled tradespeople to work across Canada, no matter where they learned their trade. This certification requires additional fees and testing.

B.C. has three labour protections that enable labourers to work throughout the country once they are certified so they can get jobs anywhere in Canada. These labour protections are called Mutual Recognition Qualifications, meaning that the ITA recognizes certifications across other jurisdictions in Canadian Provinces and Territories, and vice-versa. Mutual Recognition only recognizes labourers who are in good standing with their respective governing trade authorities, and who are sufficiently qualified for their occupation in their own province without significant additional training.

You Must Check References

You may have a roofer in mind for the job, but you should ask for – and contact – at least three references. These are people who have personally hired and dealt with the contractor.
Ask the contractor for references from a current, recently completed and past project, so that any problems with the quality of the work may be caught. If the contractor refuses to provide references, do not hire them.

When you contact the references, ask each if:

• they would hire this roofing contractor again
• the job come in on budget and if not, why not
• their home or personal property was damaged during the project, or if workers were careless
• the workers wore safety protection equipment and was safe on the job

As a homeowner and consumer, you should ask the contractor about the business’s health and safety practices. You’ll want to make sure that each roofer that will be up on your roof is trained to work safely and will be wearing fall protection equipment.
Do not hire a contractor who cannot confirm whether they have trained and equipped their workers properly. Since April 1, 2017, all roofing contractors must have a working at heights training card, which proves they’ve been trained to work safely at heights.

Create A Contract

You have consumer rights under B.C’s Consumer Protection Act which covers all home renovations and repairs, including roofing. This law states when you and the contractor sign a roofing contract worth $50 or more in your home, you have the right to a cooling-off period of 10 calendar days. A contract signed in your home is an agreement under the Consumer Protection Act. During those 10 days, you can cancel the contract for any reason without having to pay any cancellation fees.

If you hire a contractor and they start working during the 10-day cooling-off period, you can still cancel the contract but you’ll be responsible for paying for any work performed.

Conclusion

If you have any questions about roofing and a company’s license don’t hesitate to contact us Cambie Roofing. We are more than willing to help you out with fixing, repairing, or building you a new roof.

Originally published August 2018.
Updated and republished July 2023.

Commercial and Industrial Roofs

Commercial and industrial roofs have needs and challenges far different from residential roofs. Therefore, it is important to talk to a roofing contractor well versed in the broad range of commercial and industrial roofs. Someone who can guide you so that together, you can decide what is best for your business’ individual needs and limitations. As a commercial business owner, you have a lot to keep safe under your roof. Therefore you should pick someone like Cambie Roofing who is capable of catering to your time and budget, while ensuring your business is protected.

Most commercial roofs are flat. Flat roofing presents its own advantages as well as challenges. With little to no slope, water and drainage are a major challenge. Stagnation on your roof is a sign of trouble. Not only water but any debris or material left on a flat roof will cause damage to your roof and ware the material away. Scheduled maintenance is key to getting the most out of your roof by clearing any debris and checking for damages left behind. Ensuring proper drainage is also of key importance to make sure water does not stagnate in any spot.

Built-Up Roofing

The most classic system of roofing available. Layers of coal tar with coal tar saturated felts. Coal tar is a by-product of the coal manufacturing process and makes an excellent water and oil resistant material. It has the ability to soften in warm temperatures and “heal” itself. Built-up roofing can be expensive on new builds, however tar and gravel flat roofing systems have a long service periods if well maintained and repaired.

Modified Bitumen

Modified Bitumen is asphalt that has had modifiers added to it, to give it plastic or rubber-like properties. Installed in layers which are either torch welded or adhered using factory applied adhesive Modified Bitumen is a cost-effective alternative. The longevity and warranty received on the product is dependent on the number of layers installed.

EPDM Roofing

Ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) roofing is commonly known as rubber roofing. One of the most popular commercial roofing options is EPDM roofing. EPDM roofing systems are lightweight and simple to install. A single-ply membrane of synthetic rubber which has been improved over the years. So that current EPDM roofing systems are incredibly durable, tear and highly puncture resistant while maintaining flexibility.

One of the biggest advantages of an EPDM roof is its price, as it is one of the most inexpensive roofing materials available. It is also comparatively easy to install and is very lightweight, so the roof deck doesn’t need to be reinforced. A high-quality EPDM roof can have a life expectancy of up to 20 years. EPDM roofs are relatively durable and do not scuff or scratch easily. Further, though EPDM roofing material is black and, therefore, absorbs the heat, it is not easily damaged by UV rays.

TPO Roofing

A thermoplastic polyolefin roof (TPO) has become a very popular option, especially among commercial building owners. Like EPDM roofing, TPO is one of the more inexpensive types of roofing material. And is actually less expensive than EPDM in most cases. Because TPO is white, it helps reflect the sun, thus reducing heat buildup inside your structure.

TPO is light weight and can also be installed in different ways. It can be directly fastened to the roof deck or fully adhered with adhesives to the roof deck. It is also resistant to corrosion and breakdown, isn’t prone to algae growth or mildew. And it doesn’t need to be pressure washed. Another huge benefit is having heat-welded seams vs. the use of adhesives. When using TPO, the plastics in the membrane are literally melted together, creating a far more dependable bond between seams.

PVC Roofing

PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, roofing is composed of two layers of PVC roof material with polyester acting as a reinforcement between the layers. The layers also include additives that make the material UV-stable and flexible, while also preventing curing. Like EPDM and TPO, it is lightweight.

On a flat or low-slope roof, PVC roofing’s lifespan is comparatively long, and it is also known for its durability. PVC is additionally resistant to moisture, fire, wind and chemicals. And the heat welding installation process used with PVC roofs creates a permanent bond between each roofing sheet and keeps the seams securely together.

SPF Roofing

A spray polyurethane foam (SPF) roof is made from a form of plastic that transforms from a liquid into a solid in a matter of just seconds, while also expanding about 30 times as it dries. SPF roofing is a sustainable choice that can pay for itself in terms of energy savings. A good multi-layer SPF system (such as spray foam covered with layers of premium acrylic roof coating) has outstanding tensile strength and durability, with a reflective top coat that helps building owners save on energy costs. With proper maintenance and regular roof coatings, an SPF roof can last 40 years or more. The expansion properties of an SPF roof enable the product to effectively seal off gaps and crannies, making the entire roof watertight and airtight.

Unlike the other options, SPF provides insulation to save heat. Enhances building structural support while being lightweight, self-curbs around protrusions. And can be used to correct ponding water or more effectively channel water to drains by simply spraying more spray foam in areas that need built up. Because SPF roofing is the product of a chemical reaction between two liquid compounds. It must be applied in a carefully calibrated way or the spray foam that results will not last long-term. It can take a roofing contractor a long time to master the application of this specialized system, and specialized training is needed, as well.

Conclusion

Now you have the knowledge you need to decide on what type of roof is best for your commercial or industrial building, give us a call. When you need your roof repaired or a new one installed, which roofing, Cambie Roofing can offer you the professional advice and services you need.

Originally published July 2018.
Edited and republished June 2023.