Should I repair or replace my roof?

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. These fixes typically run $300–$800 in Ottawa and can add several years of life to an otherwise healthy roof. However, if your roofer finds soft decking underneath, widespread granule loss, or multiple layers of shingles already on the home, you're patching over a deeper problem and spending money that won't pay off.

Replacement becomes the right call when repairs would cost more than 30–40% of a full replacement, or when the roof has simply reached the end of its service life. Standard 3-tab asphalt shingles last 15–20 years in Ottawa's climate, while architectural (laminate) shingles can last 25–30 years — but our harsh freeze-thaw cycles, ice damming, and heavy snow loads accelerate wear faster than in milder climates. If your roof is sagging, has multiple leak points, or shows daylight through the attic, replacement is no longer optional.

Ottawa-specific costs for a full roof replacement typically range from:

• Low: $5,000–$8,000 (smaller home, standard architectural shingles)


• Mid: $9,000–$14,000 (average 2-storey, quality shingles, proper ice & water shield)


• High: $15,000–$25,000+ (complex roofline, premium materials, steep pitch, large home)

Ontario Building Code requires a permit for full roof replacements in some cases, particularly if you're replacing the decking. The City of Ottawa recommends checking with Building Code Services at 613-580-2424 or ottawa.ca/building to confirm whether your project requires one. Always ensure your contractor carries WSIB coverage and liability insurance — you can verify WSIB clearance at wsib.ca/clearances.

Before making any decision, get a proper inspection. A reputable Ottawa roofer will inspect your shingles, flashing, decking, soffits, fascia, and attic ventilation — and give you an honest assessment. Be cautious of contractors who push replacement without showing you photos or walking you through the attic. Get at least two or three quotes, and ask each contractor to specify what's included: tear-off of old shingles, ice and water shield along eaves (mandatory in our climate), underlayment, and disposal fees.

Your next step is to book a roof inspection before the fall season hits — Ottawa roofers get very busy in September and October. Browse verified roofing contractors in our Ottawa contractor directory to find licensed professionals in your area.