Being in Ontario, Canada, we know the magic and the challenge of winter. At Ontario Tech Roofing, our team is here to understand these unique seasonal demands and is committed to ensuring your roof is not just a covering; but also a resilient shield against the harsh Canadian winter.

The Silent Threat: How Snow Impacts Your Ontario Roof

It is relatively easy to underestimate the weight of snow. Light snow, for example, can weigh around 7 pounds, but if it becomes wet, compacted, or icy, that weight can be up to 20-25 pounds or more per cubic foot. The problem is, however, imagine feet of this material across hundreds of square feet of your roof. The sheer load can be staggering!

This weight isn’t just a concern for structural integrity, though that’s paramount. Persistent snow cover also creates conditions ripe for other forms of damage:

Ice Dam Formation: This is the most difficult winter issue. Ice dams occur when heat escapes from your home’s attic; thereby melting snow on the warmer parts of the roof. The problem is that this meltwater flows down to the colder eaves, where it refreezes, forming a barrier. We find that water then pools behind this ice dam, unable to drain, and can back up under your shingles, leading to significant leaks, water damage to ceilings, walls, and insulation, and even structural rot.

Shingle Damage: The constant freeze-thaw cycles can cause issues as even the BEST asphalt shingles become brittle, crack, or lift, especially if moisture infiltrates beneath them. The movement of ice and snow can also wear down granular surfaces.

Gutter Stress: It is common to see that heavy snow can rip gutters clean off your home, or constantly fluctuating ice within them can cause them to sag, crack, and become ineffective.

Ventilation Blockage: Snow and ice can block attic vents, trapping moisture and heat. This causes ice dam issues and promotes the growth of mould and mildew in your attic, compromising indoor air quality and insulation effectiveness.

Proactive Protection: How Ontario Tech Roofing Fortifies Your Home for Winter

At Ontario Tech Roofing, our approach to winter preparedness goes beyond mere repairs. We focus on a holistic strategy that integrates cutting-edge technology with time-tested craftsmanship, specifically tailored for Ontario’s climate.

Superior Shingle Selection: Our team recommends installing high-quality, durable asphalt shingles; ones designed to withstand extreme temperature fluctuations and resist granular loss from snow and ice. These aren’t just aesthetically pleasing; they form the frontline defence.

Advanced Underlayment Systems: Beneath your shingles lies a crucial layer of protection. This is why our team works tirelessly to utilize synthetic underlayments and ice-and-water shield membranes, particularly in vulnerable areas like eaves, valleys, and around penetrations. This secondary barrier is vital for preventing water penetration, especially from ice damming.

Optimal Attic Ventilation: A well-ventilated attic is your best defence against ice dams. Proper airflow ensures that the attic temperature remains close to the outdoor temperature, preventing premature snowmelt. Our experts assess and improve attic ventilation systems, ensuring heat and moisture can escape effectively, reducing the conditions that lead to ice dam formation and mould.

Robust Flashing and Sealing: All areas where your roof meets other structures (chimneys, skylights, vents) are highly susceptible to leaks. Dan (our owner 🙂 ; and the team employ meticulous flashing techniques and high-quality sealants to create watertight barriers that won’t fail under heavy snow loads or freeze-thaw cycles.

Gutter Guards and Reinforcement: To prevent snow and ice from clogging and damaging gutters, we work with manufacturers alike to provide robust gutter guard solutions that allow meltwater to flow freely while keeping debris out. We also ensure gutters are securely fastened and properly pitched to handle winter’s demands.

Regular Inspections and Maintenance: Before winter truly sets in, a professional and free roof inspection by Ontario Tech Roofing can identify potential weak spots, missing shingles, or compromised flashing. Addressing these issues proactively can save you from costly emergency repairs in the dead of winter. We also offer safe, professional snow removal services for excessive build-up, always prioritizing roof integrity.

Winterproof Your Roof: Don’t Be Caught Off Guard

Your roof is one of the most significant investments in your home’s protection. In Ontario, where winter weather can be relentless, neglecting its condition is not an option. From the structural integrity threatened by heavy snow to the insidious damage caused by ice dams, a well-maintained, roof by your go-to GTA roofing experts is your peace of mind.