Your roof is your home’s first line of defence against the elements.
But weather is a strong force on how long your roofing materials will
last and how well they’ll perform. In a city like Calgary, where snow,
hail, wind, and temperature fluctuations are all prevalent. The selection
of the right materials and upkeep on your roof is more crucial than
ever. At Straight Path Construction, we assist homeowners in making
informed roofing decisions by recognizing the impact of weather
on every roof type.
Freezing Temperatures and Freeze-Thaw Environments
Calgary winters are harsh. When the temperature falls below freezing,
water in or on the roof will freeze, and when the sun reappears, thaws
out. Freezing and thawing so many times will cause materials to expand
and contract repeatedly. This leads to cracking, splitting, and
compromised seams. Asphalt shingles are particularly susceptible to
this, whereas rubber (EuroShield) roofing is better equipped to deal with
cold weather because it is flexible.
Snow and Ice Buildup
Heavy snow loads can be stressful on your roof structure, particularly if the
snow isn’t removed periodically. Ice dams from refrozen melting snow along
the edge of the roof will push water under shingles or membranes to leak.
Good insulation, ventilation, and drainage are important to avoid
snow-related roof issues in Calgary’s lengthy winters.
Seasonal Maintenance Matters
Since Calgary has extreme weather during all four seasons, scheduling
seasonal roof maintenance is critical. Spring is ideal for inspecting for
winter ice and snow damage, and autumn is the time for cleaning out
debris and getting ready for snow. Regular checks can find small problems
before wind, hail, or water cause them to become bigger issues.
Straight Path Construction provides complimentary seasonal roof inspections
to keep your home safe throughout the year.
Selecting the Right Roofing Contractor
Regardless of how durable your roofing material is, good installation
is what makes your roof resistant to Calgary’s climate. Defective
workmanship may result in premature failure, even on new roofs. This
is why hiring a seasoned contractor like Straight Path Construction is
essential. We have knowledge about local weather patterns and use
tested materials and techniques that stand up well against Calgary’s
peculiar conditions.
Hail Damage
Calgary is one of Canada’s hail capitals, and roofs are very much in
danger from hailstorms. Hail dents metal removes granules from asphalt
shingles, and pokes holes into flat roof membranes such as rubber
or TPO. Impact-resistant shingles or reinforced roofing systems will
mitigate the damage. At Straight Path Construction, we provide
hail-tough materials and emergency repair services after storms.
Heat and UV Exposure
During summer, direct sunshine and high temperatures tend to make
roofing materials dry out, warp, or fade. Asphalt shingles curl or
become brittle, and rubber or metal roofs expand and loosen seams if
they are not well installed. Light-coloured or reflective materials can
reflect heat and prevent long-term sun damage to your roof.
Wind and Uplift
Strong winds, particularly from summer storms or chinooks, can lift
shingles, loosen flashing, and rip at roof edges. As soon as a small
section of the roof is exposed, the wind has its way underneath and
creates more havoc. Wind-resistant shingles, secure nailing patterns,
and reinforced edges can defend your roof from high wind zones
such as Calgary.
Final Thought
Calgary weather is harsh on roofs but installation techniques and
materials can help seal the deal. Building a new roof or renovating an
old one? Knowing how weather impacts your roofing system is step
one toward lasting protection. At Straight Path Construction, we install
roofs designed for Calgary weather with safety, strength, and
performance in mind.
Call to Action
Concerned your roof isn’t coping with Calgary’s weather?
Contact Straight Path Construction or go to our website for a
complimentary roof inspection and professional advice about
weather-resistant roofing solutions.
