Category: Roofing General

It’s no secret that our Canadian winters can be unforgiving—especially on our homes. From blizzard-force winds to heavy snow and ice, winter storms can put your roof to the ultimate test. At T. Simpson Roofing, we’ve seen firsthand how quickly a robust roof can turn into a leaky liability under severe weather conditions.

If you’re worried about your roof—or already dealing with a wintertime leak—this guide is for you. Below, we’re sharing everything you need to know about emergency roof leak repair during winter storms, including the steps you should take, when to call for help, and how to prevent further damage. Let’s get started.

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Your roof is a critical shield for your home, especially with Canada’s diverse and often harsh weather. Knowing what your home insurance covers when it comes to roof damage can save you from unexpected and significant repair costs. Let’s break down common roof insurance claims in Canada and what’s typically included in your coverage.

Common Roof Insurance Claims in Canada

Here’s a quick overview of the five most frequent roof insurance claims we see in Canada:

• Storm Damage: This often includes damage from high winds, hail storms (common across the prairies and parts of Ontario), and falling trees – but generally excludes damage resulting from neglect or roofs simply reaching the end of their lifespan.
• Fallen Debris: If a sudden impact from debris (like a tree branch in an ice storm or wind storm) damages your roof, repairs and debris removal are usually covered.
• Fire Damage: Coverage typically extends to fire damage, smoke damage, and water damage caused by firefighting efforts. This is crucial in areas prone to wildfires or even house fires started by electrical issues.
• Leaks from Insured Events: Leaks that result from a covered event, like a storm, are generally included. However, slow leaks due to wear and tear are usually not covered. This is especially relevant in regions with freeze-thaw cycles that can weaken roofing materials over time.
• Ice, Snow, or Sleet Damage: Sudden structural damage from heavy snow loads or ice buildup is often covered. However, insurance usually won’t cover damage from gradual snow accumulation or ice damming if it’s considered a maintenance issue. This is particularly important in provinces with heavy snowfall like Quebec, Newfoundland, and parts of British Columbia.

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Winter can be tough on your roof, but preparing it ahead of time can save you from costly repairs and keep your home warm. Here’s a quick guide to get your roof winter-ready:

• Inspect for Damage: Check shingles, flashings, gutters, and your attic for leaks, cracks, or weak spots.
• Clear Debris: Remove leaves, branches, and clean gutters to prevent blockages.
• Prevent Ice Dams: Use proper insulation, ventilation, and remove snow from roof edges.
• Fix Issues Early: Seal leaks and repair weak spots before winter.
• Improve Insulation: Add insulation to your attic and ensure proper ventilation to manage roof temperature.

Pro Tip: Schedule a professional inspection in early fall to address any hidden issues before snow arrives. A little preparation now can save you from big headaches later.

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Since gutters are at the top of your house and out of sight, they’re easy to neglect. New homeowners should know the importance of keeping your gutters clean to prevent blocked gutters, which can lead to serious issues like leaky roofs and basement flooding. Cleaning gutters means a well-kept and functioning home. It may easily become a task that you tend to ignore or push off, but doing so comes at a cost.

Learn how and why to keep your gutters clean now so that you can maintain the appearance and quality of your new home. Cleaning them regularly will save you money and headaches down the road. Letting debris build up in your gutters could lead to pests, mold, leaks, and structural damage to your new home.

In this article, we’ll cover the reasons to clean gutters regularly and the tips you should follow when cleaning gutters.

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Choosing the right roofing company is crucial for ensuring the longevity and reliability of your roof. However, many homeowners often make critical mistakes during the selection process. Avoid these pitfalls by being well-informed and attentive. Here are the top 5 mistakes homeowners make when choosing a roofing company.

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Your home’s roof does more than just provide protection from the elements; the choice of roofing material plays a key role in shaping your home’s appearance and enhancing its energy efficiency. With so many roofing types available, choosing the right one can be tough. This guide highlights three popular choices: asphalt shingles, metal roofing, and wooden roofing. We’ll cover each material’s pros and cons so you can decide what fits your budget, style preferences, and climate conditions.

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Picture this: It’s a lazy Sunday afternoon, and you’re settling in for a cozy day at home when suddenly, you hear an ominous drip. Your heart sinks as you realize your roof has sprung a leak. We’ve all been there, and it’s not a pleasant experience. But what if I told you that with some simple maintenance, you could avoid this scenario and add years to your roof’s life?

As a homeowner, your roof is one of the most critical components of your house. It’s your first line of defence against the elements, keeping you dry, warm, and safe. Yet, it’s often out of sight and out of mind – until something goes wrong.

Regular maintenance is essential to prevent minor issues from escalating into significant, costly repairs. Today, we’re going to change that. Let’s dive into the world of roof maintenance and discover how you can maximize your roof’s lifespan.

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As a homeowner, you’re likely aware of the importance of maintaining your roof, but how often do you think about your eavestroughs? These unassuming channels play a crucial role in protecting your home from water damage, yet they’re often overlooked until a problem becomes severe.

At T. Simpson Roofing, we’ve seen firsthand how neglected eavestroughs can lead to costly repairs down the line. With over 25 years of experience serving York and Simcoe County, we’ve compiled a list of five key signs that indicate your eavestroughs might need some attention. Don’t wait until it’s too late – read on to learn how to spot these warning signals and protect your home.

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As the warm Ontario summer settles in, your thoughts might drift to cottage weekends, backyard barbecues, and dips in the lake. But before you fully embrace the season, there’s one home maintenance task that deserves your attention: your eavestroughs.

We know that summer in Ontario brings its own set of challenges for your home’s drainage system. Let’s explore why summer eavestrough maintenance is crucial and how you can protect your home during these sunny months to avoid costly repairs.

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When your roof needs a repair, especially after a storm, you can face a dilemma: should you do it yourself or find a professional? Roof repairs can cost anywhere between $150 to $8,000, so ensuring you get it done right the first time is important.

This article will explore the underlying causes behind blown off shingles and damaged roof shingles during a storm, the steps to repairing them, whether you should do it yourself or hire a professional, and if you decide to go with a professional, how to choose the right one.

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