Roof replacement is one of the largest single maintenance expenses Ontario homeowners face. Here is a complete guide for 2026.
Shingle Lifespan in Ontario
3-tab: 15-20 years. Architectural 30-year: 20-25 realistic in Ontario. Premium 50-year: 30-35 years. Ontario freeze-thaw, UV, and ice dam pressure significantly shorten manufacturer-rated lifespans.
Signs You Need a New Roof
Curling or cupping shingles, granule loss in gutters, missing shingles after wind, visible daylight in attic, water stains on ceiling, age over 20 years.
Ice and Water Shield
Ontario Building Code requires self-adhering Ice and Water Shield at all eaves, valleys, and penetrations. Older roofs often have only felt at eaves — proper IWS is a critical upgrade that prevents ice dam water infiltration.
Costs in Ontario 2026
Strip and replace (2,000 sq ft home): $8,000-$18,000.
Architectural 30-year upgrade: +$1,000-$2,500.
Premium shingles: +$3,000-$6,000.
HST applies to roofing installation (not HST-exempt like some repairs).
Vetting Contractors
Get WSIB clearance certificate, verify liability insurance, check HomeStars reviews, get 3 written quotes. Never pay full amount upfront. Avoid cash-only or high-pressure same-day-sign situations.
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