Roof Replacement in Edmonton: Costs, Timeline & What to Expect

What Does Roof Replacement Include?

A complete roof replacement in Edmonton involves multiple stages, each critical for long-term performance in our climate. Professional roofers follow a systematic process that protects your home while delivering a durable result. Here's what a quality roof replacement should include:

Complete Tear-Off

All existing shingles, underlayment, and damaged materials are removed down to the roof deck. This allows inspection of the underlying structure and ensures the new roof has a solid foundation. Never accept a "roof-over" where new shingles are layered on old—this practice is prohibited by most manufacturers and voids warranties.

Deck Inspection & Repair

Once exposed, the roof deck (plywood or OSB sheathing) is inspected for rot, water damage, or structural issues. Damaged sections are replaced before new roofing is installed. In Edmonton's climate, ice dam damage near eaves is common and must be addressed.

Ice & Water Shield

Self-adhering membrane is installed along eaves, valleys, and around penetrations to prevent ice dam leaks—critical for Edmonton where freeze-thaw cycles create ice buildup. Building code in Alberta requires ice shield extending at least 36 inches from the exterior wall.

Underlayment Installation

Synthetic underlayment (or traditional felt) provides a secondary water barrier beneath the shingles. Premium synthetic underlayment offers superior protection and lies flat for easier shingle installation.

Shingle Installation

New shingles are installed following manufacturer specifications, with proper nailing patterns and overlap. Starter strips along eaves and hip/ridge cap shingles complete the installation.

Flashing & Ventilation

New flashing is installed around chimneys, vents, skylights, and wall intersections. Ridge vents and soffit vents are inspected/replaced to ensure proper attic ventilation—essential for preventing ice dams and moisture buildup.

Cleanup & Disposal

Professional crews include full debris removal, magnetic nail sweeping of the property, and proper disposal of old materials. Your yard should look better than before they arrived.

Roofing Materials for Edmonton's Climate

Edmonton's extreme climate—temperature swings from -30°C to +30°C, heavy snow loads, and regular hail storms—demands roofing materials specifically designed for harsh conditions. Here are the most common options and how they perform:

Architectural Asphalt Shingles (Most Popular)

Architectural shingles (also called dimensional or laminate shingles) are the most popular choice for Edmonton homes. They're thicker than 3-tab shingles, offering better durability, wind resistance, and a more attractive appearance. Premium options from IKO, Malarkey, and Owens Corning are specifically rated for cold climates and come with 30-50 year warranties.

Cost: $8,000-$15,000 installed | Lifespan: 25-35 years in Edmonton

Impact-Resistant Shingles

Given Edmonton's position in Alberta's "Hail Alley," impact-resistant (Class 4) shingles are an excellent investment. They're designed to withstand hail up to 2 inches in diameter and may qualify for insurance premium discounts. Look for shingles meeting UL 2218 Class 4 standards.

Cost: $10,000-$18,000 installed | Lifespan: 30-40 years

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing excels in Edmonton's climate—it sheds snow easily, handles temperature swings without cracking, and can last 50+ years. Standing seam metal is more expensive but offers superior durability. Metal roofing is ideal for lower-slope roofs where shingles wouldn't perform as well.

Cost: $15,000-$30,000+ installed | Lifespan: 40-70 years

Materials to Avoid

Budget 3-tab shingles fail faster in Edmonton's climate due to their thinner construction and limited flexibility in extreme cold. Wood shakes require significant maintenance and don't handle Alberta's freeze-thaw cycles well. Clay tiles are rare in Edmonton due to weight concerns and cold sensitivity.

Roof Replacement Timeline

Here's what to expect throughout the roof replacement process:

Before Installation

• 1-2 weeks before: Schedule confirmed, materials ordered
• 1-3 days before: Materials delivered to your property
• Night before: Move vehicles, secure pets, remove patio furniture

Installation Days

• Day 1: Setup, tear-off, deck inspection/repair
• Day 2-3: Underlayment, ice shield, shingle installation
• Day 3-5: Completion, flashing, cleanup, final inspection

What to Expect

Roof replacement is noisy and disruptive—crews typically arrive by 7-8 AM and work until 5-6 PM. You can remain in your home during installation, but expect debris falling, hammering noise, and crews accessing your property. Remove wall decorations that might shake loose and cover vehicles parked nearby.

Choosing an Edmonton Roofer

Selecting the right roofing contractor is as important as choosing quality materials. Here's what to look for:

• Local experience: Established Edmonton companies understand local climate challenges
• Manufacturer certifications: Certified installers from IKO, Owens Corning, or Malarkey can offer extended warranties
• Proper licensing: Valid Alberta business license and municipal business permits
• Insurance coverage: $2M+ liability insurance and WCB coverage for all workers
• Written warranty: Both manufacturer warranty (25-50 years) and workmanship warranty (5-10 years)
• Strong reviews: Check HomeStars, Google, and BBB for reputation
• Detailed quotes: Itemized pricing with no hidden fees

Get 2-3 quotes before deciding, but don't automatically choose the lowest price. Quality installation is worth the investment—a poorly installed roof will fail years before its time.