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Choosing a new roof or siding is a big investment. We've compiled the most common questions from Ottawa homeowners to help you make an informed decision about your home's exterior.

We install asphalt shingles, metal roofing (standing seam and ribbed panels), flat roofing systems, and specialty materials for heritage homes. Each material has distinct advantages depending on your budget, home style, and local climate demands.

Our team will walk you through the options during a no-obligation estimate visit so you can make a confident decision based on your specific roof geometry and long-term goals.

Most residential asphalt shingle roofs are completed in one to two days. Metal roofing typically takes two to four days depending on the panel system chosen and roof complexity.

Larger homes, steep pitches, or roofs with multiple valleys and dormers will naturally take a bit longer. We'll give you a realistic project timeline during the estimate.

Yes. We work with third-party financing partners to offer flexible payment plans for eligible homeowners. Options typically range from 12 to 60 months with competitive interest rates.

Ask about financing during your free estimate and we'll send you the application details. Approval is usually confirmed within 24 hours.

We provide a 10-year workmanship warranty on all roof installations. This covers defects in our labour — improper flashing, failed seams, or installation errors.

Additionally, material warranties from manufacturers range from 25 years to lifetime coverage depending on the product. We'll explain both warranties in writing before any work begins.

Yes. We're experienced with storm damage claims and can provide detailed documentation — photos, scope of work, and itemized estimates — that your insurer requires.

We'll coordinate directly with your adjuster when needed to help move the claim forward without added stress on your end.

In most cases, yes. A full tear-off allows us to inspect the decking and replace any rotted or damaged sheathing before laying new underlayment and shingles. It also ensures the best possible warranty coverage from the manufacturer.

In specific situations a re-roof over existing shingles is acceptable — we'll let you know if your roof qualifies.

Key indicators for replacement: shingles are curling, cracking, or missing in large areas; the roof is over 20 years old; granule loss is significant; or there are multiple areas of water infiltration.

If damage is limited to one section and the rest of the roof is in good condition, targeted repairs are often the smarter investment. Our inspectors will give you an honest assessment — not a sales pitch.

Late spring through early fall is the ideal window — warmer temperatures help shingles seal properly and dry conditions reduce delays. Late August to October is our busiest season for good reason.

That said, we do complete roof replacements in winter when the temperature stays above −10°C. We use cold-weather adhesives and follow manufacturer guidelines to ensure a durable result year-round.

Yes on all counts. Big City Roofing holds a valid Ontario contractor licence, carries comprehensive general liability insurance (minimum $2M), and all crews are covered by WSIB.

We're happy to provide certificates of insurance before any project begins. Working with a fully compliant contractor protects you from liability in the event of an on-site injury.

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Not sure about a specific material or how the process works for your home? Give us a call or send a message. We'll skip the sales pitch and give you the info you need.

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