Roofing FAQ

At McKay Sheet Metal & Roofing we are open 12 months of the year and in the winter when it's colder and there is snow on your roof we can still complete Steel Roofing projects all winter long with great success.

This is what keeps us busy most of the winter months. Steel can be installed at any time of the year unlike Asphalt Shingles which is something we don't install in the winter as the shingles are brittle and nails can go through the shingles very easily leaving holes where water can infiltrate -as well the shingles do not seal until the weather gets warmer in the summer so are susceptible to blow offs.

We have completed several projects in the winter including large complex steep churches to multiple homes and commercial projects.

Give us a call to book your next winter project at 613-259-5766

There are many situations in which your roof could begin to leak. It could be from blow off shingles, ice damming caused by heat loss in your attic, poor chimney flashings, skylights flashings, deteriorated plumbing stacks, etc. Its best to give us a call at McKay Sheet Metal & Roofing so we can investigate, remove snow, tarp a section of your roof, or cold apply some adhesive to temporary stop your leak. For Flat roofs we may be only able to cement the leaks temporarily until a permanent repair can be made.

Give us a call at 613-259-5766 to make the necessary repairs.

Here are some tips to help you determine if you need a new roof:

1. Roof age
   How old is your existing Asphalt shingle roof? 3 tab Asphalt shingle roofs can start to fail after 12 years especially if they are organic shingles that were installed.
2. Shingles curling and buckling
   Shingles that are curled or buckling are another sign that you may need a new roof. Look at the slopes of your home that get direct sunlight and if you notice the shingles are curling and losing granules, it could mean the shingles are past their life expectancy.
3. Roof valleys
   If your roof shingles are falling apart or missing in this area, it's a definite sign you need a new roof. Valleys are one of the most important areas of your roof. Snow and rain flow through valleys and into gutters. If the valley is compromised, you could be susceptible to roof leaks.
4. Missing shingles
   If you are missing shingles this could be another sign your roof could be failing. Check to see if all of the shingle "tabs" are intact. If you see some lying on the ground this is a sign your roof could be failing.
5. Chimney flashing
   If your metal flashing looks like it has been tarred and caulked several times this could be a sign that you need new metal flashings installed. Especially if you see the metal buckling which could be allowing in moisture.
6. Shingle granules in the gutters
   If your gutters/eaves trough are full of shingle granules it's probably a sign you may need a new roof. Roofs tend to lose more granules toward the end of the roofs life cycle. Inconsistent or darker color on some parts of the roof is another sign the granules have worn away.

At McKay Sheet Metal & Roofing we are open 12 months of the year however there are certain times when we don't install certain products unless the weather is favourable.

Here is a breakdown of our services over the year:

Spring:

Is a good time of year to have your roof assessed and a good time to get a favourable price from a contractor as many are anxious to start the season. However, you must be prepared to move quickly as most reputable contractors fill up very quickly.

Summer:

Most reputable roofers are busy all summer long. However, don't put off making decisions until fall which is the busiest time of year for Roofers.

Fall:

Unfortunately, this is also when most homeowners realize they need to repair their roofs or replace them because they do not want to go all winter long with an inadequate roof. So, not surprisingly, roofers are extremely busy in the fall season. That means longer wait times for scheduling your project.

Winter:

Do not assume because the temperatures are cold that roofing jobs cannot be done in the winter. At McKay Sheet Metal & Roofing we have been installing Metal and Steel roofs all winter long for years with great success. As well we are busy investigating leaks, removing ice dams, shoveling roofs, and installing commercial roofing.

The only products we don't install are Asphalt shingles if it too cold.

Whether you need a roof leak repair in Ottawa or you need an entirely new roof, contact our team of roofing experts today. We can help you decide what type of roofing is best and discuss the right time to replace your roof based on your needs.

McKay Roofing has a variety of roofing solutions to choose from. Contact our team for a free estimate or call us at 613-259-5766