As the snow melts away and spring flowers push their way through the wet mud, homeowners start thinking about household repairs. One crucial task during this season is a spring roofing inspection. Here’s why you should consider it:

Winter’s Impact on Roof Systems:
Winter weather can be harsh on roofs. Snow piles, ice dams, and melted precipitation can damage shingles and other roofing materials.
Cracked shingles, damaged flashing, and dented eaves may not be visible from the ground. A professional inspection helps assess the roof’s condition and catch problems early.
Water leakage into the attic is a serious issue, and identifying shingle problems before leaks occur is a smart move.

Preventing Leaks:
Spring often brings rainy, damp weather. Inspecting your roof in spring helps prevent leaks.
Identifying and addressing deficiencies early minimizes the risk of water infiltration during heavy rainstorms.
Key areas to inspect include drains, scuppers, and roof membranes.

Why Annual Inspections Matter:
Schedule a roofing inspection every spring. Each winter carries the potential for damage due to wind, snow, sleet, and freezing temperatures.
Skipping even one year can lead to higher repair costs if problems arise.
A thorough inspection by an experienced roofer ensures peace of mind and helps maintain your roof’s longevity.

Contact Class EH! Roofing of Niagara!

Get a free home estimate from Class EH! Roofing. Our ShingleMaster™ Certified Experts provide honest estimates, high-quality work, and superior materials. Don’t leave your roof’s health to chance—schedule your inspection now! 📞  (289) 687-6924
Remember, a well-maintained roof protects your home, adds to its aesthetic appeal, and ensures your safety and comfort. Reach out to Class EH! Roofing today! 🏡🔍💪

There are many aspects that make up the structure of a roof that functions properly and protects your home. Here are the key components explained.

Roof Decking (Sheathing)The roof decking serves as the foundation for your entire roof. Typically made from sturdy materials like plywood or oriented strand board (OSB), it provides structural support and evenly distributes the weight of roofing materials. A solid roof deck ensures the overall strength and durability of your roof.

​Underlayment
The underlayment acts as a secondary barrier between the roof deck and the outer roofing materials. Whether made of felt paper or synthetic materials, underlayment enhances water resistance and prevents moisture infiltration. Proper installation is crucial to ensure its effectiveness in safeguarding your roof’s longevity.

Roofing Materials
The outermost shield—the roof covering material—is what everyone sees. Consider various options:

-Asphalt Roof Shingles: Affordable, versatile, and widely used.
-Metal Roofing: Durable, energy-efficient, and available in various styles.
-Wood Shakes: Rustic and charming, but require more maintenance.
-Clay Tiles: Elegant and long-lasting, perfect for Mediterranean-style homes.
-Choose based on factors like cost, durability, and aesthetics.

Flashing
Roof flashing is a vital waterproofing component. Crafted from materials like aluminum or galvanized steel, it’s strategically installed in vulnerable areas:

-Intersections: Where different roof planes meet.
-Valleys: Where two roof slopes intersect.
-Chimneys: Around chimney bases.
-Vents: At pipe vents and mechanical vents.
-Flashing forms a watertight seal, preventing leaks and water damage. Its role is critical in maintaining your roof’s integrity.

Roof Ventilation
Proper roof ventilation is essential for preserving your roof’s structural integrity. It prevents moisture buildup, which can lead to mold, rot, and premature aging. Ventilation components include:

-Ridge Vents: Installed along the roof ridge.
-Soffit Vents: Located under the eaves.
Gable Vents: On the sides of gable roofs.
-Box Vents: Discreetly placed on the roof surface.
Good ventilation ensures a healthier, longer-lasting roof.

Gutters and Downspouts
While not part of the roof itself, gutters and downspouts play a crucial role. They channel rainwater away from your roof, preventing water damage, erosion, and foundation issues. Regular maintenance keeps them functioning optimally.

Eaves
The eaves are the overhanging edges of your roof. They protect your walls and provide shade. Properly designed eaves prevent water from seeping into your home.

Ridge and Hip
The ridge is the highest point where two roof slopes meet, while the hip is where two roof planes intersect. Proper ridge and hip construction ensure stability and weather resistance.

Class Eh! Roofing in Niagara
For all your roofing needs, including free inspections, trust Class Eh! Roofing in Niagara Region. Our experienced team delivers quality workmanship, exceptional service, and peace of mind. Contact us today at Class Eh! Roofing to protect your home with a reliable roof! Get your FREE estimate today!🏡🔨

When it comes to replacing your roof, choosing the right material is crucial for many reasons.

The material you choose will not only affect the look of your home but also its durability, energy efficiency, and overall value. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is right for you. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the most popular roofing materials and help you choose the one that best suits your needs.

Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material in North America. They are affordable, easy to install, and come in a variety of colors and styles. Asphalt shingles are made of fiberglass or organic materials that are coated with asphalt and granules. They are durable and can last up to 30 years with proper maintenance. However, they are not the most energy-efficient option and can be prone to algae growth in humid climates.

Clay and concrete tiles are popular in warm climates due to their ability to reflect the sun’s rays and keep homes cool. They are durable and can last up to 50 years or more. Clay and concrete tiles are available in a variety of colors and styles, including Spanish, Mediterranean, and Mission. They are resistant to fire, wind, and hail and can add value to your home. However, they can be heavy and require a strong support structure. They can also be expensive to install and repair.​

Our team has serviced Niagara Region with quality roofs since 2008 and so we know a great deal about not only installations but the importance of winter roof maintenance.

Winter is a challenging season for homeowners in Niagara. The harsh weather conditions can take a toll on your roof, leading to leaks, cracks, and other issues. That's why it's essential to watch for signs that your roofing system is compromised.

Winter roof maintenance is the process of inspecting and maintaining your roof during the winter season to ensure it remains in good condition. Regular maintenance can help identify potential issues before they become major problems, saving you time and money in the long run. It can also help extend the life of your roof, ensuring it lasts for years to come. Some common winter roof maintenance tasks include:

• Addressing any obvious signs of shingle damage or leakage 
• Removing snow from the roof: When snow accumulates on your roof, it can cause a lot of weight and pressure on your roof, leading to leaks and other issues. Removing snow from your roof can help prevent these problems.
• Checking for ice dams: Ice dams are formed when snow melts and refreezes on your roof, causing water to back up under your shingles. This can lead to leaks and other damage. Regularly checking for ice dams and removing them can help prevent these issues.
• Inspecting flashing: Flashing is the material used to seal joints and prevent water from entering your home. It’s important to inspect it regularly to ensure it’s in good condition.
• Checking gutters and downspouts: This helps prevent water damage and leaks.
• Trimming trees: Overhanging branches can damage your roof, so it’s important to keep them trimmed.
• Removing debris: Debris such as leaves, branches, and other materials can accumulate on your roof and cause damage over time.

If you’re not comfortable performing these tasks yourself, it’s best to hire a professional roofing contractor to do the job for you. They have the expertise and equipment needed to safely and effectively maintain your roof.

Are you looking for a reliable and affordable roofing solution for your home in Niagara?
Look no further than Class EH! Roofing.  ​Our team of experts has been serving the Niagara region for over 10 years, providing high-quality roofing services with honest estimates and lower prices.

At Class EH! Roofing we get asked a lot of questions about roof replacements, so here are the answers to the most asked and we hope it may assist you in easily getting the information you need!

 When Do I Need a Roof Replacement? 
Typically, roofs should be replaced every 20 to 25 years. If the roof has damage or has been compromised, then you may need to replace it sooner.

 What Are Some Signs My Roof Has Been Damaged?
If you are missing shingles or notice that a few have buckled, especially given the harsh nature of Canadian winters, then you may need a roof replacement to maintain its overall integrity. Holes in your roof shingles may also compromise the energy efficiency of your home, which is yet another reason to invest in a new roof if you notice any issues with the shingles.

Animal damage may also necessitate a replacement, especially since small animals tend to create holes in your roof to seek shelter from the element. The most obvious sign that you need a new roof is a leak. If you have an attic, look around with a flashlight routinely to determine if there are any water spots, streaks, or even stains on the ceiling. 

Do I Need a Full Roof Replacement? 
The answer? Maybe. Most professional roofing contractors will come out and inspect your roof and let you know what you are dealing with.  HOWEVER if a roof is older and having issues often it is a good idea to do a total replacement.
The expense involved with replacing even a portion of the roof is considerable, so it makes sense from a financial perspective to do the entire roof at once versus piece-meal. This is only likely to make the project more expensive in the end. 

Why Do You Often Recommend Asphalt Shingles?
Asphalt roof shingles are among the most common roofing materials, and can come in a variety of colors, although most are shades of black and grey. They’re easy to install, easy to replace, and simple to maintain. 

Asphalt shingles are wind resistant and prohibit algae growth on your roof, a benefit in areas that tend to get more rain. They are also the most affordable of roof covering options and have sound mitigation that makes for a quieter interior space in your home. 

How Long Will My New Roof Last? 
Asphalt shingled-roofs last about 20-25 years, especially with proper installation and care. 

How Much Do Roofing Replacements Cost? 
The cost of roof replacements varies according to the size and scope of the project. Roofs that have multiple peaks, or those with a steeper pitch, will cost more than a flat roof on a single-story house. 

The variance in cost is one of the reasons why it is important to get a full and professional estimate. A contractor that gives you a price over the phone is not providing a comprehensive enough quote since they do not know the condition of your roof (even if you have described it) and they have not taken the time to inspect the integrity and design of your home’s structure, which means the cost could fluctuate. 

Which Roof Estimate Should I Choose? 
When you’re planning a large-scale or expensive home modification or an upgrade to your home, it’s important to get several estimates (quotes) for your project. This allows you to interview different contractors and to gather the right information for the right choice. 

If you notice that one out of the estimates is an extreme outlier, then it might be one you reject. 

Warranty and Guarantee? 
Every good roofing company will offer a warranty on the completed roof, and most will guarantee their work for a certain period. Ask for your company’s guarantee in writing, and make sure to ask about exceptions.

Can I replace my roof myself?
While you may be considering taking on the task of replacing your roof yourself, we advise against it. Allowing an expert to handle this massive undertaking can help ensure accuracy, efficiency and safety. Unfortunately, carrying out improper installation can lead to higher costs down the line. 

Is a roof replacement covered by insurance?
The cause of the damage plays a pivotal role in this scenario. Most homeowners’ insurance policies usually cover damage that has been brought about by “acts of God” or unexpected accidents like storms, hurricanes, fire, or vandalism. These policies do not generally cater to damage as a result of lack of maintenance or normal wear and tear.

If your roof has been damaged by extreme weather conditions or unexpected incidents, you will need to immediately report the damage to your insurance company. It’s crucial to provide comprehensive documentation, which includes photographs, a detailed description of damage, and citations from professional roofers. 

The age of your roof might also influence your coverage. If your roof is relatively new, your insurance might cover the total cost of replacing the damage — but the older your roof, the less valuable it is in the eyes of your insurance provider. Understanding your insurance policy can significantly alleviate the financial stress associated with roof replacements. When in doubt, don’t hesitate to reach out to your insurance provider for clarification.

Will a roof replacement disrupt my daily routine?
While every roofing project is unique, traditional roof replacements typically last from a few days up to a week, depending on the size and complexity of the roof. During this period, there will be noise from the roofers working overhead and using various tools. You might also experience some vibrations in the house, which could disrupt tasks that require concentration or quiet.

READY TO GET A FREE ROOF INSPECTION?
Putting off roofing repairs and replacements can lead to significant damage both to the to itself and your home’s structure. Most roofing contractors suggest regular inspections of your entire roof, especially after a severe storm or hail.

The team at Class EH! Roofing are experts at identifying damage to all types of roofs and completing a thorough repair or full roofing replacement.

As roofing contractors we see the good, the bad and the ugly and today we are going to talk about the mistakes folks sometimes make when getting a new roof on their home.  

1. Hiring the company with the lowest price
Like most homeowners, you may think that every roofing company quotes the same price for their products and services. By assuming this, you may consider the lowest bid contractor, thinking they too will offer the same quality work as the contractor charging a high price. In reality, such contractors may only provide you a cheap deal because they cut certain corners, use lower quality materials or offer less than ideal service.  It is of utmost importance to check references, Google reviews and get a detailed quote from contractors.  If you do not take these steps you may simply save now and pay later.

2. Skipping on venting when replacing the roof
A good venting system helps in heating and cooling your home. It increases the longevity of your roof or roof deck and prevents mold and moisture build-up. Make sure to educate yourself about what your roof does for your home and the various elements meant to preserve it for longer. Once you gather all the information, hire a contractor to help you with the type of roof system you’re looking for.

3. Lack of research about roofing contractors
A roof is a long-term investment that you don’t want to have done by an inexperienced contractor. It would be best to do your due diligence and research about companies through references and looking into their past work. Don’t expect that every contractor will offer the same products and services or quality of work. We always recommend that you get more than one quote for your roof. Yes it takes time, however it likely will be time saved later if you get the job done right the first time!

4. Working with an unverified company
When installing a new roof for your home, it’s essential to hire a roofing contractor with the right accreditation. Ask for proof of their credentials and check if they are covered under the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB). In case of a situation where an accident or damages like fire or leak occurs due to the contractor’s work, you will be held responsible and liable for it. If they have the appropriate insurance coverage, you can save yourself from unnecessary expenses.

5. Being unaware of the roof installation process
Installing a roof on your home can be expensive. That said, you need to know who will be installing the roof, mostly when a subcontractor does the roof. You need to ask the company’s sales representative if they use sub-contractors or use in-house employees. Most subcontractors don’t do a quality job as they have a set budget that they need to finish the job within, so sometimes the jobs may be rushed or of poor quality, resulting in a poor installation.
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If you need a roof repair or replacement, we welcome you to reach out to our team at CLASS EH! ROOFING for an honest estimate and lower prices.  Please give us a call or fill out the form HERE.

ABOUT US
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Class EH! Roofing is a leading roofing and home exterior renovation company located in Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON founded by Niagara resident Wayne Jeffreys over 15 years ago.  

With thousands of installations to our credit in the Niagara Region, an exceptional level of service and products as well as unbeatable warranties, the team at Class EH! Roofing are  dedicated to excellence in everything they do.

We specialize in the repair, maintenance, and installation of all residential and commercial roofing systems for the benefit of homeowners, property managers, condominium corporations, corporate clients, institutional customers, and individual building owners. 

Our courteous, experienced representatives, are trained to evaluate and provide our clients, with cost effective solutions for correcting existing roof leaks, roof replacement, and maintenance solutions. 

All of these solutions and services are designed to extend the life of your roof and building investment.


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Here are some roof tips with summer ending to think about in order to ensure your roof is good to go for the fall season ahead!
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First off, being proactive and regularly checking your roof will always keep you ahead of the game.  The roof of a property should be regularly maintained to prolong its life and ensure water doesn’t leak through.  Here are key roof maintenance tasks to do this fall:
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• Pruning the trees – Dead tree limbs can fall on the roof and cause damage, especially when it’s raining or snowing. Trees that are leaning towards the house could also fall on its roof, or allow squirrels and raccoons to get access. Twigs, leaves, and other debris can also cause rotting, gutter blockage and roof damage. To avoid these problems, the overhanging branches should be removed. Ensuring that trees aren’t leaning towards the home is also a good idea.
• Cleaning the gutters – One of the best ways to prepare for winter is cleaning the gutters and ensuring they’re well-anchored. Doing so allows rainwater and thawed snow to flow properly off the roofline, avoiding leaks and water damage to the home. Leaves and other debris should be removed from the gutters regularly throughout the fall. In addition to this, installing gutter guards can ward off any debris that would invade the gutters.
• Inspecting the roof for damage-
  • The roof flashings should be checked – these cover gaps near vents and chimneys and can be dislocated during a storm. Faulty flashing pieces must be replaced.
  • If the roof is made of asphalt, it’s best to replace the shingles that have bare spots, are warping, or are curling at the edges.
  • If the roof is made of wooden shake, homeowners should check for signs of warping. The roofing material should be replaced if at least 25 percent of the wood shingles are damaged.
  • In the case of a metal roof, signs of damage include pitting, corrosion or gapping seams. These issues can lead to leaks or underlay damage.
  • A professional roof inspector should be hired for these tasks. Besides, the roof might need adjustment and repairs.

All these roof maintenance tips are highly recommended as we enter the fall season.  If you need assistance with your maintenance or require an inspection our team at Class Eh! Roofing would be happy to assist.  Please contact us for a FREE estimate today within the Niagara Region.


ABOUT US
​
Class EH! Roofing is a leading roofing and home exterior renovation company located in Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON founded by Niagara resident Wayne Jeffreys over 15 years ago.  

With thousands of installations to our credit in the Niagara Region, an exceptional level of service and products as well as unbeatable warranties, the team at Class EH! Roofing are  dedicated to excellence in everything they do.

We specialize in the repair, maintenance, and installation of all residential and commercial roofing systems for the benefit of homeowners, property managers, condominium corporations, corporate clients, institutional customers, and individual building owners. 

Our courteous, experienced representatives, are trained to evaluate and provide our clients, with cost effective solutions for correcting existing roof leaks, roof replacement, and maintenance solutions. 

All of these solutions and services are designed to extend the life of your roof and building investment.

Summer is almost here in the Niagara Region and it always is a good time to consider how it will affect your roof to stay ahead of any issues.

Ontario has been experiencing increased summer temperatures for more extended periods year after year, with some extreme storms that follow them. Your residential home or commercial building’s roof is one of the most important factors in protecting your property. When planning to build a new roof or to repair a current issue knowing how high temperatures affect your roof is critical in making the right choice in design, materials, and application methods.

​How High Summer Temperatures Affect Your Roof
The most significant factor in the longevity of your roof is thermal shock. During the day, your roof can reach very high temperatures. For example, a standard asphalt shingle can be as hot as 60 – 75 °C. Couple that with the extreme cold we can get, and you will have roofs that need to survive temperatures spanning 100°C or even more.

How does thermal shock affect your roof?
The damage happens because of this changing temperature. Most materials used in roofing, from flashing to shingles to any roof component, experience expansion in the hot heat and contraction when it gets cooler. As this process happens repeatedly, the materials used will break down and form cracks or other properties that negate their effectiveness. All roofing materials will fail over time, but increase the occurrence of these extreme contractions and expansion events can cause the roof to fail sooner.

UV Exposure
Rocks and pebbles applied directly on top of roofs or part of the roofing material like shingles are designed for UV exposure. However, when these wear away or roofing material underneath has more direct contact, the chemical compound of the material alters through oxygen mixing with other hydrocarbons, releasing the oily substance to be able to evaporate and leave your roof unprotected eventually.

Summer Storms and Weather
When high heats last for days on end, this is often due to a heat dome effect. After this effect passes, you will usually have extreme weather from downpouring rain, hail and thunderstorms. These storms can be a side product of the high heat of summer and contribute to how warm weather can affect your roof.

How to Keep Your Roof & Home Cool
As with all parts of your home, proper insulation helps keep the appropriate temperature so that you don’t lose warmth in the winter or cool air in the summer (compounded with homes with AC). Having proper insulation in your roof as well as the rest of your home will help you regulate temperatures more effectively and reduce energy usage, thus saving you money and helping the environment.

Ventilation
Having a home that “breaths is crucial for your home in summer and winter”. Proper ventilation is critical for reducing outside temperatures’ effect on your home and moisture buildup. Having cool air come from underneath (soffits) and exhausting at the top of your roof through vents creates a natural flow to keep the air circulating.

Roofing Material’s Colour
Having a roof colour that is not too dark helps deter heat. The key is to find the sweet spot in colour in the grey zone that helps not to absorb all sunlight in summer, but can also absorb some in the winter for warmth.

Maintenance and Protection
After the summer, makes sure to take a look at your roof. Are there spots where roofing material has melted? Is there cracking on some shingles? The best protection you can have is regular inspections yearly to stay ahead of problems.

Wrap Up
Extreme heat is a good test for the overall roof’s health and often highlights roofing problems and incorrect applications.  If you need assistance with your current roof our team at Class EH! Roofing would be pleased to offer a free inspection and offer solid professional advice to make sure you get the most out of your roofing system no matter what the season.
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