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Roofing in Ottawa
An Ottawa roof spends months under snow, then goes through freeze and thaw every spring.
- Liability insurance and WSIB coverage
- 5-year warranty on construction
- 2-year warranty on painting
- Free in-home consultation
Roofing
What we do
An Ottawa roof spends months under snow, then goes through freeze and thaw every spring. Shingles get the attention, but how long a roof lasts depends just as much on the flashing, the underlayment and the attic below it. Carleton Prime does re-roofing, roof repairs, and roofs on new homes, additions, garages and outdoor structures across Ottawa and the Ottawa Valley.
“Indiana and his crew renovated a bathroom for me and the process was seamless, respectful and completed with extreme care and quality. I consider Carleton Prime the best construction company in Ottawa. I will use them for all future projects. Very pleased, would highly recommend.”
Ice dams start in the attic
Ice dams form when heat from the house melts snow on the roof. The water runs down to the cold edge, freezes there, and builds a ridge of ice that backs water up under the shingles. The fix is mostly in the attic: air sealing so warm air stays out of it, enough insulation, and ventilation that keeps the roof deck cold. A waterproof membrane along the eaves adds protection.
So when we look at a roof, we look at the attic too.
Flashing is where roofs leak
Most roof leaks start at a joint, not in the middle of the shingles: around chimneys, vents and skylights, in valleys, and where a roof meets a wall. Proper flashing at those spots is part of doing a roof right, and on a re-roof it is the best time to replace it.
When the old roof comes off, we check the roof boards underneath and replace damaged sections before the new roof goes on.
When a permit is needed
The City of Ottawa lists installing asphalt shingles on a roof as work that does not need a building permit, except on heritage buildings and in heritage districts. Changing the roof structure does need one, for example a new roof shape, a dormer, or new rafters or trusses. For other roofing materials, we confirm with the City. We work out what your project needs and apply for the permits on your behalf.
In Perth's downtown heritage district, re-roofing with a different material generally needs a heritage permit, while re-roofing with the same material does not. Our Perth page explains more.
Whole job or one part
Just the roofing, or the whole project
You can hire Carleton Prime for roofing on its own, or as part of a renovation or new build we run from start to finish. Builders, general contractors, architects, designers and engineers also bring us in for roofing as a subcontractor: we work from your drawings and specifications, carry liability insurance and WSIB coverage, and hand over cleanly to the next trade.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a permit to replace my roof?
Not for new asphalt shingles on the existing roof, unless the home is a heritage building or in a heritage district. Changing the structure, such as adding a dormer or changing the roof shape, needs a building permit. We check what your project needs and apply for any permits for you.
How much does a new roof cost?
We quote each roof on its scope: its size and pitch, how many layers come off, the roofing material, the flashing and venting it needs, and the condition of the roof boards underneath.
What causes ice dams?
Heat escaping from the house into the attic melts snow on the roof, and the water refreezes at the cold edge. Air sealing, insulation and attic ventilation are the main cure. An eave membrane adds protection.
Do you check the roof boards underneath?
Yes. When the old roof comes off, we check the boards and replace damaged sections before the new roof goes on.
Can you build the roof on my addition or garage?
Yes. We frame and roof the additions, garages and coach houses we build, and we tie the new roof into the old one on an addition.
Can I hire you just for a roof?
Yes. Roofing is one of our own trades, so we take it on by itself or as part of a bigger project.
What warranty comes with a roof?
Roofing is construction work, so it carries our five-year warranty. Roofing materials also carry whatever warranty their maker gives.
Related services
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Siding
New and replacement siding, with the wall behind it kept dry.
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Windows and doors
New and replacement windows and doors, sealed and flashed against Ottawa weather.
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Home additions
Room additions and second storeys that fit your house and lot.
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The permit, Building Code and bylaw points on this page come from these authorities. Rules change, so check the current version before relying on any of it.
Ottawa renovation and construction
Start your project with Carleton Prime
Every project starts with a free in-home consultation. Tell us about your home and what you want to do.