Asphalt shingles (Standard 3-tab Class A inorganic shingles) are a popular and inexpensive roofing option. They do well in moderate wind conditions and most hailstorms because they are flexible and have a low risk of damage when debris makes contact with the roof. However, a severe storm can cause significant damage to asphalt shingles.

Most asphalt shingles have a Class A fire resistance rating, which is the highest level of fire resistance. With a flame-retardant fiberglass core, these shingles provide excellent fire resistance. Most products have a life expectancy of up to 20 years. 

A type of asphalt shingle built with a heavier base and multiple layers of a more refined type of asphalt. Laminated architectural shingles have the strength of multiple standard asphalt (3-tab) shingles and can withstand stronger winds and more intense weather conditions.

Class 4 (impact resistant) shingles provide improved impact resistance, and increased resistance to tears, splits and hence water damage. Nevertheless, when exposed to large, wind-driven hail, impact resistant asphalt shingles can still experience damage.

+25% compared to standard asphalt

+45% compared to standard asphalt

Cool roof shingles have been engineered to reflect sunlight and decrease the amount of heat transferred into your home, reducing heat stress and cooling bills in summer months.

Lighter surfaces, if used throughout a region/neighbourhood, may also assist in reducing urban heat island.

A cool roof system can also be achieved by using light coloured roofing materials or painting your roof white.

+45% compared to standard asphalt

Rubber roofs are one of the most climate resilient roofing types, as they offer a tremendous level of impact resistance. They can handle heavy rain, heavy snow and extreme temperature variances that can cause splitting, peeling, cracking and rotting in other roofing materials.

Rubber roofs offer some fire resistance, but can be treated with fire-retardant to reduce their combustibility.

They can last 30-50 years, requiring little maintenance if installed correctly. Rubber roofs can be made from recycled tires, sawdust, and slate dust, making them an eco-friendly option. 

+80% compared to standard asphalt

Metal is a durable, fire-resistant and lightweight roofing option that lasts up to four times longer than asphalt shingles. Metal roofs can withstand and provide protection against:

• high winds;
• winter storms;
• snow and ice formation – ice slides right off;
• water leaking into your home;
• heat – reflecting heat from the sun;
• fire, and
• hailstorms.

Note: You can be left with visible dents if hail is a substantial size, but dents do not affect the rest of the roof below.  Steel can resist hail better than aluminum.

Metal roofing is often made from recycled metals making it an eco-friendly option.

+185% compared to standard asphalt

+215% compared to standard asphalt

Wood shakes and shingles are typically made from western red cedar and come in a variety of types and grades, categorized according to their level of resistance to wind, impact and fire.

Wood shakes and shingles provide good insulation and protection from extreme temperatures, reducing annual energy costs. They are also fairly durable and are not affected by things like hail.

If considering wood shakes or shingles, look for a minimum of Class A or B fire resistance.

+245% compared to standard asphalt

A green roof consists of a thin layer of soil, with live plants growing on the top of your house. They are lightweight and can typically be installed on flatter roofs with a pitch from 0 to 30 degrees.

Green roofs have many benefits:

• keep your home cooler during extreme heat events, reducing cooling costs by as much as 25%
• reduce heating costs
• reduce stormwater runoff from your property
• improve local air quality
• reduce urban heat island effect
• resistant to strong winds and hail

In addition, green roofs capture and store carbon, provide habitat and biodiversity benefits, and have been observed to enhance property values.

Green roofs require maintenance. Expect to pay $1.00 to $1.30 per square foot in maintenance costs each year for the first two to five years as the plants become well established. Once established, maintenance and irrigation needs will decrease significantly.

Learn more about green roofs in Calgary.

+260% compared to standard asphalt

Concrete tiles have good thermal properties when compared to other tile roofing; they reduce the amount of heat gained by the home from sun exposure without the need for additional insulation. This reduces the thermal load by as much as 45% when compared to asphalt shingles, reducing the need for as much attic insulation and ventilation.

• Concrete tiles have a Class A fire rating, making them a good choice for homes in areas prone to wildfires.
• In contrast to clay, concrete tiles are less prone to cracking from freezing and thawing cycles.
• Concrete tiles are resistant to hail and high winds when installed correctly.
• Concrete tiles are less water resistant than slate or clay.

Note: In some homes, concrete tiles may require the roof framing to first be reinforced to support the added weight.

+265% compared to standard asphalt

Because it is a natural stone, slate shingles are extremely long-lasting (anywhere from 70 to 200 years) and provide great protection against many climate hazards, including:

• hail and wildfire;
• extreme heat;
• large tree branches and other debris from high wind events; and
• shedding snow from a sloped roof.

The density of slate can help regulate the temperature in your home, providing protection from extreme heat and reducing energy consumption and costs.

Note: Slate is extremely heavy and can require additional structural support prior to installation. 

+355% compared to standard asphalt

Clay roof tiles are quite resilient but can be prone to damage from large hailstorms and suffer cracking from freezing and thawing cycles in colder climates.

Their resistance to high winds is largely determined by the fastening system; if installed correctly, the tiles should resist high winds.

Clay does a great job of blocking heat from the sun. Clay tiles are energy efficient, available in many types and colours and are also fire and water resistant.

Note: Like slate shingles, clay tiles are heavy and may require structural reinforcement of your roof prior to installation. 

+370% compared to standard asphalt