December 10th, 2003

ALERT

CONSUMER ALERT

There is an expression, "Buyer Beware!" This is as true for roofing as for any other major expenditure.

Replacing a roof can be an exciting, if daunting, challenge. It is also an expensive one. Consumers owe it to themselves to become fully informed about what makes a good roof, about the manufacturer, supplier and installer of their roofing products and about the protection each of these offers in terms of warranty and after-sales service.

Remember, there is more to a roof than just appearance. A well-applied shingle roof will give you the long-term protection you need (against sun, wind, rain, snow and ice), enhance the pleasure you get from your home and add considerably to its resale value.

You want to make sure you get the maximum in protection and performance.

•  Ensure that your roof is installed according to manufacturer's specifications, meets the applicable building codes and follows the industry's best roofing practices.

•  Start with a proper deck, install the necessary eave protection and underlayment (asphalt felt under the shingles to protect against wind-driven rain), and provide for adequate ventilation.

•  Buy from a reliable dealer or roofer.

•  Make sure you get a warranty that is comprehensive; understand what is and what is not covered; ensure that you meet the conditions of the warranty and consider how this warranty will be handled should there be a problem down the road.

Also, consider the following:

•  Canadian manufacturers offer a wide range of shingle styles and colours; there's enough choice to find the perfect shingle for your roof, a shingle that will perfectly suit your budget, your home's architecture and your own personal style. These shingles are competitively priced.

•  Canadian manufacturers are close to where you live, are immediately accessible to your retailer or roofer should there ever be a problem, and are governed by Canadian consumer protection laws. Most U.S. manufacturers are further from where you live and have neither the history nor the proven commitment to serving this country for the 25, 30 or more years printed on their warranties.

•  When they sell in Canada, several U.S. manufacturers have shown an unfortunate willingness to lower their own standards of what they consider should be good roofing practice - stating that no underlayment is required under fiberglass shingles, for example - something they do not and would not accept in their own country.

•  Improper application may negate the application of the warranty coverage.

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