5 Common Roofing Myths

Common Roofing Myths Debunked: What Homeowners in Calgary Should Really Know

Table of Contents

1. Myth #1: All Roofs Last 25 Years
2. Myth #2: A Roof Doesn’t Need Attention Until It Leaks
3. Myth #3: You Can Inspect Your Roof From the Ground
4. Myth #4: New Shingles Solve Everything
5. Myth #5: Roofing Warranties Cover Everything
6. Why Roofing Myths Cost Calgary Homeowners Money
7. FAQ

Myth #1: All Roofs Last 25 Years

One of the most common misconceptions is that every roof automatically lasts 25 years. In reality, Calgary’s unpredictable weather changes that timeline fast. Between freeze and thaw cycles, hailstorms and heavy winds, most roofs in the area show wear well before the 25 year mark.

Shingle quality, attic ventilation, and installation method all affect how long your roof really lasts. A well-maintained asphalt shingle roof might reach 20–25 years, but many fail earlier due to local conditions.

Myth #2: A Roof Doesn’t Need Attention Until It Leaks

Waiting for a leak to act is like waiting for your engine to seize before changing the oil.

By the time water makes it into your home, the damage is usually widespread — rotted decking, soaked insulation, mould. Regular inspections, especially after hail or high winds, catch small problems before they spiral into costly repairs.

Myth #3: You Can Inspect Your Roof From the Ground

A quick look from the sidewalk is not enough. Binoculars won’t catch what’s happening under shingles or around flashing. Even if everything looks fine from below, a trained eye on the roof might spot:

• Nail pops that break the waterproof seal
• Granule loss exposing asphalt
• Soft spots in the sheathing

Professional inspections, especially before selling or buying a home, are worth it.

Myth #4: New Shingles Solve Everything

A new layer of shingles might make your roof look better, but if the underlayment, decking or ventilation is compromised, it’s a band-aid fix.

In Calgary and area, ice damming is a serious concern. Without proper underlayment and air flow, your brand-new shingles might trap moisture instead of shedding it, leading to rot and mould beneath the surface.

Myth #5: Roofing Warranties Cover Everything

Warranties are often misunderstood. Most cover materials only, not installation or labour and even then, they come with fine print. Did your installer register the warranty? Was the product installed to spec?

Working with a reputable Calgary roofing company that offers both manufacturer-certified products and in-house workmanship warranties gives you real peace of mind.

Why Roofing Myths Cost Calgary Homeowners Money

Believing the wrong thing about your roof can cost you more than you think and can lead to insurance headaches from undetected damage might not be covered. Energy inefficiency from bad ventilation and equal higher heating bills and a poorly maintained roof can decrease your home value and be a red flag for buyers.

Here is how these myths can hit your wallet:

Hidden Water Damage
Small leaks do not stay small. Moisture from cracked shingles or flashing can rot wood and insulation before you see any signs indoors. Once the damage spreads, the cost of replacement grows quickly. What could have been a minor repair may turn into a full roof tear-off.

Voided Warranties
Skipping proper installation or missing maintenance steps can void your warranty. That means when you need coverage most, you are left with nothing. In Calgary, sudden hailstorms can cause major damage. Without a valid warranty, you are covering the full cost on your own.

Higher Energy Bills
Poor attic airflow or worn roofing materials can trap heat in summer and create condensation in winter. This puts extra strain on your furnace and air conditioner, raising your energy costs every month. Over time, those extra bills add up.

Insurance Issues
If you wait too long to address visible damage or skip inspections after a storm, your insurance company might deny your claim. Many policies require proof that you maintained your roof properly. Delaying repairs can void your coverage or limit your payout.

Reduced Home Value
A home inspection will reveal a poorly maintained or patched roof. Buyers in Calgary are cautious about roofing because of the local weather. A bad roof can drop your home’s value and make it harder to sell. On the flip side, a clean roof with a warranty is a strong selling feature.

Whether you’re in Calgary, Airdrie, Okotoks or Cochrane, it pays to work with local experts who understand how our climate affects your roof.

A Few Frequently Asked Questions We Hear

How often should I get my roof inspected in Calgary?
At least once every two years or after any major weather event like hail, high winds or sudden freeze-thaw.

Is it okay to re-roof over existing shingles?
It’s legal in Alberta, but not always smart. If the decking is compromised or ventilation is poor, tear-off and replacement is the safer, longer-lasting option.

Do metal roofs hold up better in Calgary?
Yes. Metal roofs resist hail, ice, fire and high winds and they often last 40+ years with minimal maintenance.

What’s the average cost to replace a roof in Calgary?
It depends on material, pitch, and complexity, but most asphalt shingle replacements range from $6,000 to $12,000 for a typical home.