Calgary Roofs: What Every Homeowner Needs to Know (From the Experts at Summit Roofers)

May 18, 2022

Calgary's climate is no joke—from sudden hailstorms to frigid winters and chinook-induced thaws, your roof takes a serious beating all year round. At Summit Roofers, we’ve seen firsthand how quickly Alberta’s extreme weather can wear down even the toughest roofing systems.

As a local Calgary roofing company with decades of combined experience, we're here to help you understand how to protect your home—and your investment—starting from the top down.

1. Why Calgary Roofs Take a Beating

Calgary experiences some of the most unpredictable weather in Canada. Our city regularly faces:

  • Hailstorms (some of the costliest in Canada)
  • High wind gusts
  • Heavy snowfall followed by sudden melts
  • Big temperature swings (freeze-thaw cycles)

All these conditions accelerate roof aging and increase the risk of leaks, ice dams, and shingle damage.

Summit Tip: Schedule a professional roof inspection after major weather events. We offer free assessments to help homeowners spot damage early—before it leads to costly repairs.

2. Best Roofing Materials for Calgary Homes

At Summit Roofers, we install and repair a range of roofing systems built to handle Calgary’s climate. Here’s what we recommend:

  • Impact-Resistant Asphalt Shingles (Class 4): Ideal for hail-prone areas. We install high-performance shingles that last longer and may qualify for insurance discounts.
  • Metal Roofing: Extremely durable, energy-efficient, and snow-shedding. A great long-term investment.
  • Synthetic Rubber Roofing: Lightweight and hail-resistant—great for flat or low-slope roofs.

Our team will help you choose the best option based on your budget, style, and long-term goals.

3. When to Repair vs. Replace Your Roof

Not sure if you need a full replacement or just a few repairs? Here’s a quick guide:

Consider Repairs If:

  • Damage is limited to one area
  • Your roof is under 10 years old
  • No leaks have reached the interior

Consider Replacement If:

  • Your roof is 15–20+ years old
  • Shingles are curling, cracking, or missing in multiple areas
  • There’s recurring leaking or water damage inside

Summit Roofers provides honest, no-pressure assessments. If a few repairs can safely extend your roof’s life, we’ll tell you that—because doing what’s right matters more than making a sale.

4. Calgary Roof Maintenance: What You Can Do Year-Round

Regular upkeep can extend your roof’s life by years. Here’s our seasonal checklist:

Spring:

  • Inspect shingles and flashing
  • Clean gutters and downspouts
  • Look for ice dam remnants or staining

Summer:

  • Check for hail or wind damage
  • Book any needed repairs before fall

Fall:

  • Clear leaves and debris
  • Ensure proper attic ventilation
  • Trim nearby branches

Winter:

  • Watch for ice dam formation
  • Check attic for signs of moisture or condensation

Need help with any of these? Summit offers maintenance services and emergency repairs year-round.

5. Insurance Claims After a Hailstorm? We’ve Got You Covered

Navigating roof insurance claims in Calgary can be a headache. Our team has worked with almost every major insurer and can guide you through the process—from documenting damage to meeting with adjusters.

We’ll make sure your roof is properly assessed, and that any repairs or replacements are completed to code, to insurer standards, and with no corners cut.

6. Why Calgarians Trust Summit Roofers

Summit Roofers is a proudly local, family-owned company serving Calgary and surrounding areas. What sets us apart?

✅ Fully licensed and insured
✅ WCB-compliant crews
✅ 5-star Google reviews from real Calgarians
✅ Transparent estimates and clear communication
✅ Industry-leading warranties on both materials and labor

We don’t just work in Calgary—we live here, raise our families here, and take pride in protecting our neighbors' homes.

Final Thoughts: Your Roof is Worth Protecting

Living in Calgary means being prepared for unpredictable weather—and your roof is your first line of defense. Whether you need a minor repair, help with a hail insurance claim, or a full roof replacement, Summit Roofers is here to help.