Question 1

What is the lifespan of different roofing materials?

Accepted Answer

Most roofing materials in Ottawa last between 15 and 50+ years, but Ottawa's harsh climate — with extreme freeze-thaw cycles, heavy snow loads, and ice damming — can significantly shorten that lifespan if the wrong material or installation method is chosen.

Here's a breakdown of the most common roofing materials and what you can realistically expect in Eastern Ontario:

Asphalt Shingles (15–30 years) are by far the most common roofing material in Ottawa. Standard 3-tab shingles last around 15–2

Question 2

Should I repair or replace my roof?

Accepted Answer

The answer depends on your roof's age, the extent of damage, and your long-term plans for the home — but as a general rule, if your asphalt shingle roof is over 20 years old or damage covers more than 30% of the surface, replacement is usually the smarter investment.

Roofing decisions come down to cost-effectiveness over time. A repair makes sense when damage is isolated — a handful of missing or cracked shingles, a small flashing leak around a chimney or vent, or minor granule loss in one area

Question 3

How do I maintain my deck?

Accepted Answer

Proper deck maintenance involves regular cleaning, inspection, and protective treatments, with the specific approach depending on your deck material and Ottawa's harsh seasonal conditions.

Regular maintenance is essential for Ottawa decks due to our extreme weather swings - from -30°C winters with heavy snow loads to hot, humid summers with UV exposure. The freeze-thaw cycles are particularly damaging, causing wood to expand and contract repeatedly, which can lead to cracking, warping, and fast

Question 4

How often should exterior paint be redone?

Accepted Answer

Exterior paint in Ottawa typically needs refreshing every 7-10 years, though this varies significantly based on your home's exposure, materials, and the quality of the previous paint job.

The harsh Ottawa climate is particularly tough on exterior paint. Our freeze-thaw cycles, intense summer UV exposure, and significant temperature swings from -30°C winters to +35°C summers cause paint to expand and contract repeatedly. This leads to cracking, peeling, and fading faster than in more moderate cl

Question 5

What is the best fence material for Ottawa?

Accepted Answer

For Ottawa's harsh freeze-thaw cycles and extreme temperature swings, pressure-treated wood and vinyl are the top fence materials, with cedar being the premium natural option.

Pressure-treated lumber remains the most popular choice for Ottawa homeowners, and for good reason. It handles our climate extremes well, from -30°C winters to +35°C summers, while resisting rot and insect damage. A 6-foot privacy fence typically costs $25-40 per linear foot installed, making it budget-friendly for most p

Question 6

How do I prevent ice dams on my roof?

Accepted Answer

Ice dams form when heat escapes through your roof, melting snow that refreezes at the cold eaves, creating a barrier that backs water under your shingles. The key to prevention is proper insulation, ventilation, and air sealing in your attic space.

Proper Attic Insulation and Air Sealing is your first line of defense. Your attic should have R-50 to R-60 insulation (about 16-20 inches of blown-in cellulose or fiberglass) to meet Ontario Building Code requirements. More importantly, you need to s

Question 7

How do I improve my home's curb appeal?

Accepted Answer

Improving your home's curb appeal is one of the most cost-effective ways to increase your property value, with simple updates often providing returns of 100-200% when selling. Focus on your front entrance, landscaping, and exterior maintenance as these create the strongest first impression for visitors and potential buyers.

Start with your front entrance, which serves as your home's focal point. A fresh coat of paint on your front door in a bold, welcoming color can instantly transform your hom

Question 8

What siding material lasts longest?

Accepted Answer

Fiber cement siding offers the best longevity for Ottawa homeowners, typically lasting 50+ years with minimal maintenance, followed closely by vinyl siding which can last 30-40 years in our climate.

When considering durability in Ottawa's harsh freeze-thaw cycles and temperature swings from -30°C to +35°C, fiber cement siding stands out as the champion. Brands like James Hardie and Allura are engineered to handle extreme weather without cracking, warping, or fading. This material resists moistu

Exterior Work