Lifting shingles, granules in the gutters, a brown stain on the ceiling. These signs often indicate that a roof renovation is necessary. Before taking action, the natural question is: what should you expect?
This article reviews what influences costs, how to compare quotes, and when to act.
It all starts with the material. Asphalt shingles, elastomeric membrane for flat roofs, and metal roofing don't have the same installation cost, nor the same lifespan. Each option corresponds to a different building type and investment level, and the right choice depends as much on your home as on your ownership horizon.
The roof's area is a close second. A large house naturally costs more to cover than a bungalow. And the steeper the roof, the more time and safety equipment the work requires, which is reflected in the quote.
There's also the decking, the plywood attached to the roof trusses beneath the covering. If it has been damaged by moisture, it will need to be replaced before anything else is installed. This expense is often invisible during the initial estimate, but it can be added during the project.
Certain government programs can reduce your costs, especially if your work improves your home's energy efficiency.
The program Rénoclimat from the Quebec government offers assistance for roof thermal insulation work. Simple covering replacement is not eligible. It's the insulation that's targeted. An energy evaluation before the work is mandatory, so the process must begin before construction.
The program LogisVert from Hydro-Québec can also support combined work of insulation and caulking. The best approach : consult these resources before signing anything.
The first is to choose the lowest bidder without checking the license. In Quebec, any contractor who performs work exceeding $1,000 must hold a valid license from the Régie du bâtiment du Québec (RBQ). Without it, there is no legal recourse in case of faulty workmanship.
Ventilation is often overlooked. A new roof that is poorly ventilated can deteriorate prematurely and cause moisture problems in the attic. This is a problem that develops discreetly and is expensive to correct.
Waiting too long is also a common mistake. An untreated leak can damage the wooden structure and turn a shingle replacement into a major structural renovation.
First and foremost, have your roof inspected by a licensed roofer. A professional assessment allows for evaluating the actual condition of the covering and decking before quoting anything. Then, compare at least two or three quotes from RBQ-certified roofers — not just for the amounts, but also for the proposed materials, warranties, and timelines. At the same time, inquire with your municipality about available assistance programs, as some require steps to be taken before work begins.
In spring and fall, a glance at the gutters is enough to detect an accumulation of granules. The condition of the flashings around chimneys and ventilation outlets also deserves attention; that's often where leaks begin.
Quebec winters are particularly demanding on roofs. Good attic ventilation prevents the formation of ice dams at the roof edge, which can force water under the covering. These seasonal checks allow problems to be identified early, when solutions are still accessible.
A roof renovation is a significant project, but not an impossible decision to make. Understanding what influences costs, comparing quotes from qualified professionals, and checking available assistance — that's all it takes to make the right decision at the right time, without regret.
Not sure about the condition of your roof or don't know where to start? The 123Couvreur team can assist you in evaluating your project.
Contact us for your free, no-obligation quotes.
