Summer’s here, and for many Toronto homeowners, that means tackling those long-awaited home improvement projects. Roof replacements often rise to the top of the list, and with good reason. A sustainable new roof can significantly enhance your home’s curb appeal, value, and energy efficiency. If you’re considering a metal roof – a fantastic choice for our Canadian climate – here’s what you need to know to ensure a smooth and successful installation during the warmer months.

Keeping Your Cool with Proper Ventilation

Metal roofs excel in many ways, but one key advantage is their ability to reflect sunlight and heat away from your home. Proper ventilation is crucial, especially in the Toronto summer. Think of your attic as a trapped breath—hot and stuffy. Adequate ventilation allows air to circulate, carrying away heat and preventing moisture buildup. This is particularly important with sustainable metal roofs, as trapped moisture can lead to rust and other issues down the line.

Here’s where your chosen contractor comes in. Ensure they incorporate proper “ridge and soffit vents” during installation. Ridge vents are located at the peak of the roof, allowing hot air to escape. Soffit vents are installed under the eaves, drawing in cool air at the lower part of the roof. This creates a natural airflow that keeps your attic cool and dry, protecting both your roof and your home’s overall health.

Metal on the Move: Accounting for Expansion and Contraction

Metal has a unique property – it expands with heat and contracts in cooler temperatures. This might seem like a minor detail, but it’s a crucial factor for a successful metal roof installation. Your contractor should be well-versed in these thermal movements and employ proper fastening techniques. 

This involves using specialized fasteners that allow for slight movement without compromising the integrity of the roof. Additionally, they’ll create designated “expansion gaps” at strategic points on the roof. These gaps are like breathing room for the metal, allowing it to expand and contract naturally without buckling or warping.

Safety First: Sun Exposure Considerations

Toronto summers are known for their beautiful sunshine, but working on a metal roof under the midday sun can be challenging and potentially dangerous. Metal surfaces absorb and radiate heat, making for an uncomfortable and potentially hazardous working environment for your installation crew. 

A reputable contractor will prioritize safety and plan installations for cooler times of the day, such as early mornings or late afternoons. They’ll also ensure their team has access to shade structures and plenty of water to stay cool and hydrated throughout the installation process.

Underlayment: The Unsung Hero of Your Roof

Metal panels are the star of the show, but let’s not forget the unsung hero – the underlayment. This layer acts as an additional barrier between your roof deck and the elements. During a summer installation, using a high-temperature underlayment is vital. 

Standard underlayments might not be able to withstand the additional heat exposure of a summer installation, potentially leading to warping or deterioration. A high-temperature underlayment provides an extra layer of protection, ensuring your roof remains well-defended against the elements, all year long.

By understanding these considerations and choosing a qualified contractor who prioritizes these aspects, you can ensure your summer metal roof installation in Toronto goes smoothly, leaving you with a beautiful, durable, and energy-efficient roof that will keep your home cool and comfortable for years to come. Contact us today for your metal roofing needs!