Different Types of Roofing in Ontario: Which One’s Right for You?

When it’s time to replace your roof in Ontario, picking the right material is a big decision. The province’s wild weather—snowy winters, rainy springs, and humid summers—means your roof needs to be tough, practical, and suited to your budget. From classic asphalt shingles to sleek metal panels, there’s a range of options to choose from. In this blog, we’ll walk through the most popular types of roofing in Ontario, their pros and cons, and what they’ll cost you.

1. Asphalt Shingles

• What They Are: Made from fiberglass or composite materials coated with asphalt and granules, these are the most common roofing choice in Ontario.

• Cost: $4–$6 per square foot (installed), or $8,000–$12,000 for a 2,000-square-foot roof.

• Lifespan: 15–30 years.

• Pros:

  • Affordable and easy to install—perfect for tight budgets.

  • Loads of colours and styles to match your home.

  • Decent at handling Ontario’s snow and rain with proper ventilation.

• Cons:

  • Shorter lifespan than other options.

  • Can crack in extreme cold or blow off in high winds if not top-quality.

• Best For: Homeowners in places like Toronto or Pembroke looking for a cost-effective, reliable roof.

2. Metal Roofing

• What It Is: Steel, aluminum, or copper panels or tiles, often with a protective coating.

• Cost: $6–$16 per square foot, or $12,000–$32,000 for 2,000 square feet, depending on the type (e.g., standing seam vs. metal shingles).

• Lifespan: 40–70 years.

• Pros:

  • Super durable—stands up to heavy snow, ice, and wind.

  • Energy-efficient, reflecting heat to keep your home cooler in summer.

  • Low maintenance and recyclable, a win for eco-conscious folks.

• Cons:

  • Higher upfront cost.

  • Can be noisy in rain or hail unless insulated well.

• Best For: Rural Ontario homes or long-term owners in spots like Sudbury, where durability beats frequent replacements.

3. Cedar Shingles or Shakes

• What They Are: Wooden shingles (machine-cut) or shakes (hand-split) from cedar, treated for weather resistance.

• Cost: $10–$12 per square foot, or $20,000–$24,000 for 2,000 square feet.

• Lifespan: 30–50 years with upkeep.

• Pros:

  • Gorgeous, natural look—great for cottages or heritage homes.

  • Good insulation against Ontario’s cold winters.

  • Ages to a cool silver-grey over time.

• Cons:

  • Needs regular maintenance (e.g., sealing) to fight rot and moss.

  • Higher cost and fire risk unless treated.