RESHINGLING YOUR ROOF WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW TO PROPERLY UNDERSTAND YOUR CONTRACT AND MAKE THE RIGHT DECISIONS

caaquebec.com

CAA-QUEBEC RESIDENTIAL SERVICES

FOR...

residential lockout service 24/7 emergency service (plumbing or heating problems, leaking roof, etc.) sound advice from our professionals our free handbooks referral to approved suppliers

ONE CALL IS ALL IT TAKES 1 888 627-6666 caaquebec.com

TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION.................................................................................................. 4 BEFORE GOING ANY FURTHER—THE ROOF.......................................... 5 Getting to know your roof............................................................................ 6 Parts of a roof........................................................................................................ 6 Membranes and drip edge..................................................................................... 6 Essential ventilation components............................................................................ 7 Sidebar – Shingles: the basics.......................................................................... 8 Taking your roof type into consideration................................................ 9 Sidebar – Essential: taking a look at the attic........................................... 11 Checking your roof and having it inspected.......................................... 11 Roof covering wear and tear: signs to look for...................................................... 12 Professional inspection and points to check.......................................................... 13 Sidebar – Roof inspection list......................................................................... 13 Sidebar – Focus on decking............................................................................. 14

GETTING READY—THE CONTRACT......................................................... 15 Choosing your roofer.................................................................................... 15 Understanding your reshingling contract.............................................. 17

AFTER THE WORK IS DONE: MEASURES TO PROTECT YOU—THE WARRANTIES........................ 21 Shingle manufacturer warranty................................................................ Initial protection.................................................................................................. Specific protection............................................................................................... Extended manufacturer warranties....................................................................... Roofer warranty.............................................................................................. Roofer warranty extended by an association......................................................... RBQ licence security.......................................................................................

22 22 22 22 22 23 23

CONCLUSION: MAKING SURE YOUR ROOF IS PROPERLY MAINTAINED.............. 24 APPENDICES........................................................................................................ 25 Recycling shingles........................................................................................... Using approved materials............................................................................ Insurance............................................................................................................ Mandatory insurance from the CSST..................................................................... Liability insurance................................................................................................ Claims related to itinerant sales................................................................ a) Consumer cancellation rights............................................................................ b) Cancellation form............................................................................................

25 25 25 25 25 26 26 26

To use this guide’s complete functionalities, please use the free Adobe Reader software. Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/caaQc. C A A- QUEBEC RESIDENTIAL ADVISORY SERVICES : 1 888 627- 6666

3

INTRODUCTION Your roof has seen better days and you’re planning to replace it with asphalt shingles: this guide is for you. Over the years, CAA-Quebec’s Residential Advisory Services specialists have heard all kinds of stories from members who have paid to have their roofs redone. Some have had to deal with irritating “extras,” while others have had problems with their warranties. This guide is therefore aimed at helping homeowners avoid problems associated with reshingling standard pitched roofs with asphalt shingles—by far the most common type of roofing material used in residential construction across Quebec. In this guide, you will find information to help you: • identify the various parts of your asphalt shingle roof and understand how they work; • assess the condition of the roof, determine the causes of any wear and tear, and take appropriate action (maintenance, repairing or reshingling the roof); • choose contractors based on their professional skills and certifications; • recognize the key points of a roofing contract and compare contractor estimates; • maintain your new roof in order to preserve its value and keep your options open in case you encounter a problem and need to make a claim. The information provided here will be of great help as you go through this process. The best time to replace a roof is between March 21 and September 21. The newly installed shingles will bond with each other under the sun’s heat, thus making the roof more waterproof. Cold weather reduces the effectiveness of the self-adhesive strips under the shingles; the roofers must therefore adjust their installation method (by adding glue, for example).

C A A- QUEBEC RESIDENTIAL ADVISORY SERVICES : 1 888 627- 6666

4

BEFORE GOING ANY FURTHER—THE ROOF Estimates and contracts can be quite difficult to understand. To help you make sense of them, it’s very useful to know how to identify the various parts of a roof. Underlay membrane

Static vent

Ridge

Flashing

Asphalt shingles Valley flashing

Plumbing vent

Decking (sheathing)

Attic Drip edge

Eaves membrane

Roof edge (eaves edge) Eaves soffit

NOTE: For clarity in depicting the materials at the roof edge, rain gutters have been left out of this illustration.

C A A- QUEBEC RESIDENTIAL ADVISORY SERVICES : 1 888 627- 6666

5

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR ROOF

Decking (sheathing)

PARTS OF A ROOF Decking (or sheathing) Rafters

Since the 1960s, sheathing has usually been made from sheets of plywood. The National Building Code (NBC) also permits the use of certain types of particleboard. Although the NBC permits sheets that are 3⁄8-inch thick, those most often used in roof framing are 1⁄2-inch thick, so as to prevent sagging between the rafters.

Eaves

Attic

The part of the roof, also called the overhang, which extends beyond the walls of the house. Roof edge (eaves edge)

Roof edge or eaves edge A board or strip running along the edge of the roof or eaves. Also known as a fascia.

Attic The space under the roof. The attic must be ventilated to protect the roofing system against excessive heat in summer and warm moist air generated by the house in winter. This moisture may also turn into frost if it comes into contact with cold surfaces under the roofing. Eaves

Saddle Saddle

A structure located behind the higher side of a chimney (or similar projections from the roof) to divert rainwater around it.

Valley The “V-cut” angle along the junction of two slopes of a roof.

Ridge Horizontal line along the top of the roof.

MEMBRANES AND DRIP EDGE

Chimney

Membranes (eaves and underlay) Membranes are used under the asphalt shingles in areas most at risk for water infiltration, and sometimes over the entire surface of the roof.

Eaves membrane

Water infiltration

Protective coating that is often self-adhesive. This membrane is designed to prevent a type of water infiltration that occurs frequently in winter caused by “ice damming.” When rainwater or melting snow flows along the roof above the heated part of the house and then reaches an unheated area, it may turn to ice. This ice dam then blocks and traps the water above it, which may seep under the shingles and damage the decking.

“Ice damming” and water infiltration

Eaves membrane preventing water infiltration

C A A- QUEBEC RESIDENTIAL ADVISORY SERVICES : 1 888 627- 6666

6

Underlay membrane

Underlay membrane

Coating over the rest of the sheathing. There are two common types: • Traditional underlay, a layer of black felt saturated with asphalt; • Synthetic membrane, more recent (and non-slip), which is tear-resistant. These types of underlay protect both the shingles against resin from the wood decking and the decking itself against bad weather. Seldom used in the past, this membrane is now recommended by fibreglass asphalt shingle manufacturers. Moreover, it is required to obtain certain warranties.

Valley flashing

Drip edge

Drip edge

Moulding that covers the edge of the roof. It is attached directly to the decking, along the bottom of the roof slope and above the underlay, on the sides of the roof. By keeping water away from the eaves, the drip edge reduces the risk of water infiltration. An indispensable addition? Although not required by the NBC, the use of a drip edge is recommended by most roofers and manufacturers.

ESSENTIAL VENTILATION COMPONENTS Equipment such as vents provides proper ventilation for spaces below the roof. To get the desired results, there should be openings at both the base of the roof and the ridge. Air flow will then result from the “chimney effect,” a thermal movement resulting from the fact that hot air is lighter than cold. Correct air flow through roof

Roof vents Enclosed structures made of metal or plastic that feature openings and fins. The most effective vents have four open sides and rise above the roof, which allows them to capture the wind from all directions.

Eaves soffit Static vent

The underside of the eaves, usually made of aluminum. If it has openings for ventilation, it is called a perforated soffit.

Deflector Made of polystyrene and inserted between the rafters to ensure an open space for the free flow of air over the insulation near the soffits. There should be at least 2 inches of space under the decking.

Plumbing vent A pipe that emerges from the roof and admits air into the plumbing system. This air intake allows wastewater to flow to the sewer or weeping field. Eaves soffits

Attic deflector

C A A- QUEBEC RESIDENTIAL ADVISORY SERVICES : 1 888 627- 6666

7

Flashing

Flashing (joint covers) Flashing, a type of resistant moulding, can be made of galvanized steel, enamelled aluminum, plastic, etc. Flashing prevents water that is flowing near roof openings from infiltrating the roof. More specifically, flashing is found in the following locations: • In the valley (valley flashing may or may not be covered with shingles); • At the base of chimneys; • At the base of walls; • At the base of roof vents and plumbing vents.

Roof covering The roof covering protects the roof from rain and enhances its overall appearance. Among the various options available, asphalt shingles have become popular in North America due to their affordability and ease of installation. Their waterproofing ability operates by gravity: as long as water is flowing downward, nothing will penetrate.

SHINGLES: THE BASICS Until 2010, there were two types of shingles: • Asphalt shingles with a felt base (organic), which last 15 to 25 years; • Asphalt shingles with a fibreglass base, which last 20 to 40 years. At present, organic shingles are no longer sold. As with its predecessor, the new type of shingle still has a layer of mineral granules to better withstand impacts and sunlight. Is it possible to install new shingles over old ones, to reduce the cost of the work? Technically yes, but it is not recommended: sooner or later, the underlying defects will distort the new covering.

THICKNESS AND QUALITY Fibreglass shingles feature either a single reinforcement layer—known as three-tab shingle—or two to three reinforcement layers, which are called laminated (or architectural) shingles. Although more expensive, laminates are guaranteed to last longer. The thicker and heavier the shingles are, the more resistant they are to wind and impact.

IF YOU ARE REPLACING YOUR ROOF, KEEP EXTRA SHINGLES FOR POSSIBLE REPAIRS.

The arrival of this new generation of shingles has changed the way in which roof coverings are applied. Their increased thickness limits the ways in which they can be used (such as for starter strips, for example). However, companies have added shingles for specific uses to their range of products. In some cases, the use of these shingles is even required to get a full warranty from the manufacturer. If you are replacing your roof, keep extra shingles for possible repairs. Also make a note of the brand, model and colour should you be faced with an unexpected situation.

C A A- QUEBEC RESIDENTIAL ADVISORY SERVICES : 1 888 627- 6666

8

DOES YOUR ROOF HAVE A PARTICULAR DESIGN OR SHAPE? YOU’LL NEED TO TAKE THIS INTO ACCOUNT.

TAKING YOUR ROOF TYPE INTO CONSIDERATION The type of roof you have will determine the minimum standards for care and maintenance, especially with regard to ventilation. Does your roof have a particular design or shape? If so, this should be taken into account. A ventilation problem in the attic could speed up wear and tear of the roof and void existing warranties. First of all, you need to determine the slope of your roof. This information is important in several respects. First, asphalt shingles are used on slopes of at least 1:3 (in the metric system) or 4⁄12 (in imperial). How do you calculate the slope? A slope of 4⁄12 means four inches tall (vertical) by 12 inches long (horizontal).

12 in.

SLOPE RATIOS

LEVEL Slight slope Stan d

ard s

Ste e

2 in.

lope

ps

lo p

4 in.

e

8 in. e Ste ps lop e

12 in.

Types of slope

Metric units Imperial units

1:6 to < 1:3 2⁄12 to < 4⁄12 slight slope

1:3 to < 1:1.5 4⁄12 to < 8⁄12 standard slope

>1:1.5 to < 1.1 8⁄12 to < 12⁄12 steep slope

Second, the installation and materials used must be compatible with the gradient of the roof. Shingles, which are composed of overlapping elements, will remain waterproof only under certain conditions. Third, to ensure adequate air flow, the total area of ventilation openings required will depend on the type of roof. Except for special cases, the ratio of ventilation openings to insulated ceiling surface should be at least 1:300. In other words, there should be at least 1 ft2 of ventilation openings for every 300 ft2 of insulated ceiling (or 1 m2 of ventilation openings for every 300 m2 of insulated ceiling).

RULER

C A A- QUEBEC RESIDENTIAL ADVISORY SERVICES : 1 888 627- 6666

9

TYPES OF ROOF Flat roof

If the slope is less than 2⁄12, the roof is considered flat. In this case, the ratio of ventilation openings to insulated ceiling should be at least 1:150.

Roof without attic (often called “cathedral ceiling”)

As with a flat roof, a roof without an attic should have a 1⁄150 ventilation ratio. The openings should run along the base and peak of the roof.

Roof with dormer windows (gable roof)

Roof without attic (“cathedral ceiling”)

An attic with dormer windows leaves less room for soffits. As a result, soffits that allow for higher air intake should be used.

Mansard roof (or gambrel roof) The lower part of the roof does not need to be ventilated. However, the attic section should be ventilated according to the same standards as those that apply to ordinary attic roofs. It is possible to add air intake vents along the base of this upper part.

Asymmetrical roof To balance the air intake at the top of a roof with asymmetrical slopes, the percentage of ventilation openings along the base of the longer side should be increased and those along the base of the shorter side decreased.

Roof with dormer windows (gable roof)

In the case of a roof with an accessible attic combined with a “cathedral ceiling,” there are specific rules for each side: • on the accessible side, the ratio of ventilation openings to insulated ceiling should be at least 1:300; • on the “cathedral” side, the ratio of ventilation openings to insulated ceiling should be at least 1:150. In addition, this type of roof should generally be reinforced with 2-inch × 2-inch wood cross-beams.

Mansard roof (or gambrel roof)

100%

50%

Asymmetrical roof

C A A- QUEBEC RESIDENTIAL ADVISORY SERVICES : 1 888 627- 6666

10

ESSENTIAL: TAKING A LOOK AT THE ATTIC Any reshingling project usually begins with an inspection of the attic. If the insulation and ventilation in the attic do not comply with your local building code, your roof covering will deteriorate prematurely. It is pointless to replace shingles if the attic is poorly insulated or ventilated. Any existing problems should therefore be addressed before replacing the roof.

WHAT YOU NEED TO CHECK INSIDE ACCESSIBLE ATTICS You can learn a lot about your attic simply by having a look for yourself. However, if you’re uncomfortable with the idea of going up there, entrust the work to a roofer or qualified home inspector.

Decking Examine the underside of the sheathing. Do you see moisture stains or mould (which looks like blackened wood)? If so, consider replacing.

Insulation • Does the insulation cover surfaces properly? • Does it seem wet or dried out? • Does the thermal resistance factor (or “R-value”) of the insulation meet the levels required in Quebec (i.e., R41 to R51, depending on the region)? • Is the attic door insulated and airtight?

Ventilation Are the eaves soffits kept clear? If daylight never seems to enter, they are most likely blocked by the insulation. It will therefore be necessary to replace the insulation, and perhaps even to install deflectors to keep the space clear.

Moisture • Is there a vapour barrier on the ceiling, under the insulation? • With regard to moisture, you should: • insulate all heating, cooling and ventilation ducts passing through the attic; • ensure that no moist or foul air is being released into the attic from the house; • check to see whether any moisture is escaping from ceiling fixtures, recessed lighting or pot lights (there are also vapour barrier covers for recessed housings that can be installed).

DO YOU KNOW WHAT CONDITION YOUR ROOF IS IN?

CHECKING YOUR ROOF AND HAVING IT INSPECTED Do you know what condition your roof is in? When a roof covering shows signs of wear, a full inspection is required. Is the covering aging normally? If the roof is showing signs of premature wear and tear, do you know the likely causes? The older a roof is, the more vulnerable it is and the less protection it provides against the elements. The extent of the damage may surprise you… even when the shingles still appear to be intact.

C A A- QUEBEC RESIDENTIAL ADVISORY SERVICES : 1 888 627- 6666

11

ROOF COVERING WEAR AND TEAR: SIGNS TO LOOK FOR Over the years, your roof will eventually let you know, in its own way, that it needs to be replaced. All you have to do is watch for the tell-tale signs of wear and tear. Although a visual inspection does not replace a professional inspection, it is the first step.

Bare spots and cracks

Cracks

With age, the asphalt on the surface of the shingles begins to harden, and the protective granules gradually shed. Fine cracks also begin to form. As this happens, the roof covering is approaching the end of its life. Take a look to see whether it is possible to repair or replace only the specific shingles that are damaged. However, don’t worry if new shingles are losing some of their granules: they are covered with an excess of granules that will wash away during the first few years.

Broken shingles Broken shingles

Broken shingles can become an entry point for water, especially in areas exposed to the wind. Activities such as walking on the roof or removing snow can damage the shingles, as can nails that have been placed or installed improperly.

Buckling Shingles that are bulging or distorted, with their lower corners curling downward… This sign of aging leaves the roof very vulnerable to bad weather. Buckling

There are many potential causes for this: dirty adhesive tape that fails to properly stick to the roof, a manufacturing defect, and so on.

Upturned edges Shingles with upturned edges become very vulnerable to the wind. Why does this problem occur? There may be several reasons, including excess moisture from a poorly ventilated attic or insufficient adhesive.

Algae Upturned edges

Brownish and blackish streaks on the shaded areas of the rooftop means that algae is growing on the shingles. This intruder is technically harmless; however, it’s a real eyesore and often spoils the esthetic appeal of shingles. If the presence of algae bothers you, remember that you can get rid of it with a proper cleaning.

Condition of the flashing Take a good look: does the metal flashing properly cover the edges of vents, chimneys and wall junctions? Is any rust visible? Is the flashing still firmly attached? Are the sealant joints cracked or loose? Rippling

Sagging roof If the shingle covering is beginning to sag, often indicated by a “rippling” effect, it is most often due to a problem with the sheathing. This very important issue will be addressed below.

Algae

C A A- QUEBEC RESIDENTIAL ADVISORY SERVICES : 1 888 627- 6666

12

SOME CONTRACTORS CONDUCT ONLY A CURSORY INSPECTION. ASK FOR A MORE COMPLETE ASSESSMENT.

PROFESSIONAL INSPECTION AND POINTS TO CHECK At this point in your reshingling project, you may need some professional advice. You can get this from a building inspector, for example, or contractors whom you’ve asked for estimates. Some contractors will conduct only a cursory inspection of the roof, i.e., they look at the exterior and basic elements such as the flashing. However, you should ask for a more complete assessment: only a detailed examination— done before any renovations take place!—can determine whether there are problems that will cause damage or lead to costly surprises. The following is a checklist (not exhaustive) of the main points to have the inspector examine. It will help you gauge the quality of the inspection.

ROOF INSPECTION LIST Shingles Broken Buckled Upturned edges Loss of granules Defective adhesive strip Damaged ridge Loose nails Visible nails

Metal flashing Damaged Rusted or corroded Not properly attached Cracked sealing joints Lack of sealant

Vents and chimney Crumbling rubber fittings Cracks in the chimney Blocked air outlets

Eaves Signs of standing water: stains, distortion Poor water drainage at the drip edge

Attic Signs of water infiltration through the covering Insufficient percentage of ventilation Ducts passing through the attic not properly sealed Blocked soffits Vent releasing air into the attic

Gutters Blocked Loose supports Rusted or perforated Too high or too far forward (preventing snow from sliding off roof) Poor flow (insufficient slope)

Sheathing Weakened (rippled surface) Rotten (soft surface)

C A A- QUEBEC RESIDENTIAL ADVISORY SERVICES : 1 888 627- 6666

13

FOCUS ON DECKING During a roof inspection, before giving you the estimate, an experienced roofer can (and should) determine whether the decking needs minor or major repairs. In other words, a proper examination of the premises, along with an awareness of the house’s age, will quickly tell a professional whether any work is needed. The important thing is to be aware of this possibility so that you don’t get trapped. Once the contract is signed and the roof is stripped, roofers sometimes hit owners with “extras,” i.e., additional charges for major or urgent work. As a result, consumers are then stuck, for no good reason, because an honest contractor would have told them beforehand whether the extra work as needed. Minor repairs will mean work on a small scale, such as: • replacing the nails in the decking; • sealing vulnerable points; • replacing several boards or small sections of plywood, etc. As for major work, the scope and cost involved are quite different. This may include: • replacing decking that has been too badly damaged by mould or rot (a rather rare situation); • adding a sheet of plywood (or similar material) to strengthen and level the existing decking. Adding plywood is common for houses with sheathing made from wooden boards or those with decking made from 3⁄8-inch thick sheets.

Sheathing made from wooden boards Homes built before 1960 generally have decking made from wooden boards, a type of design that is still allowed under the NBC. However, it creates some problems for shingle manufacturers: their warranty will no longer cover distortion in the covering if it is proven that this is due to sheathing made from wooden boards which is is more prone to warping in the presence of moisture. To get a smooth surface and maintain your warranty, roofers recommend adding plywood over the sheathing; in such a situation, 3⁄8-inch sheets are sufficient. You are under no requirement to accept, but the roofer will no doubt ask you to confirm that decision in writing in the contract, to avoid any possibility of legal action.

Decking made from 3⁄8-inch plywood sheets

The majority of roof coverings with thin decking eventually warp—if only because of the weight of snow. The most common solution is to strengthen the 3⁄8-inch sheathing with a 1⁄2-inch layer of plywood. Conversely, the addition of a 3⁄8-inch sheet of plywood will reinforce a weakened 1⁄2-inch deck. Reminder: it is essential that the contractor inform you in writing, in the estimate, of the planned charge to perform major repairs, if the need arises.

C A A- QUEBEC RESIDENTIAL ADVISORY SERVICES : 1 888 627- 6666

14

GETTING READY— THE CONTRACT It’s now time to decide who will do the job. Then, you must carefully study the contract to be sure you understand all the clauses.

CHOOSING YOUR ROOFER Who should you entrust the work to? Whether you opt for an established company or an independent roofer, it is worth taking the time to do some research before choosing. The contractor should have the right professional qualifications, certifications, insurance and licences to perform the work properly. The roofer must also comply with the NBC and municipal bylaws. Here is the suggested approach: 1. Contact at least three roofing contractors and ask them to take a look at your roof and provide you with an estimate. Three offers should give you a reasonable idea of the average price in your area. Reminder: During the exploratory “tour,” the roofer must climb onto the roof to properly assess its condition: a careful examination is required to produce a reliable estimate. The roofer should note the slope of the roof, its surface area, the parts to be replaced and any necessary corrective measures. Each estimate should be sufficiently detailed to allow you to make an informed decision. The list of materials, the description of the work to be done, the approximate start and end dates, labour costs, terms of payment, warranties… everything must be put in writing.

C A A- QUEBEC RESIDENTIAL ADVISORY SERVICES : 1 888 627- 6666

15

2. Check the roofer’s licence and make sure the licence number is still valid. In order to operate legally, the contractor must hold a licence from the Régie du bâtiment du Québec (RBQ), which confirms its competence and integrity. All estimates, contracts and invoices must display the contractor’s licence number, which is 10 digits in length. You can check that the licence number is still valid by calling the RBQ or checking the licence holders’ directory on the RBQ website.

TO AVOID PROBLEMS OR MISUNDERSTANDINGS, IT’S IMPORTANT TO GO OVER YOUR ROOF-REPAIR CONTRACT IN DETAIL.

Does the roofer have the right specialization? To work in Quebec, a roofer must have Licence 7.0, “Insulation, waterproofing, roofing and siding contractor,” issued by the RBQ. 3. Check the number of the itinerant merchant permit issued by the Office de la protection du consommateur (OPC). Itinerant sales are not limited to door-to-door salespeople: any contract signed at home—as is often the case for roofing repairs—is subject to the regulations on itinerant sales. The Consumer Protection Act allows the customer to cancel a contract with an itinerant merchant, for any reason and without charge, within 10 days of signing the contract. However, in case problems arise and you need to make a claim, you should make sure that the licence number is valid. The OPC monitors the activities of itinerant merchants. You can check the “Get information about a merchant” section on the OPC website to find out if a contractor has been the subject of consumer complaints.

C A A- QUEBEC RESIDENTIAL ADVISORY SERVICES : 1 888 627- 6666

16

UNDERSTANDING YOUR RESHINGLING CONTRACT To avoid problems or misunderstandings with the contractor, it’s important to go over your roof-repair contract in detail. That way, you’ll be able to make an informed decision about whether to sign it.

CORRECTIVE MEASURES TO THE DECKING Standard practice is to include repairs for an area of 32 ft2 at no extra charge and an estimate of additional costs. Repairs included for an area of _______ ft2 For all additional repairs, either price per ft2 or a specific package:

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

CORRECTIVE MEASURES TO BE MADE TO ATTIC INSULATION AND VENTILATION Ideally, attic ventilation and insulation should be checked by a building expert. However, a roofer who has gained the necessary expertise may agree to do so. Insulation and ventilation in the attic checked by the owner _________, the roofer _________ or building expert _________ Required corrective measures, if any:

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

REMOVAL AND REPLACEMENT OF EQUIPMENT AND OTHER FITTINGS You may have one or more antennas, satellite dishes or other devices on your roof. If so, you should find out whether their removal and replacement them will be included in the contract. Description and location of devices attached to the roof:

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Removal and replacement to be done by the owner ___________ or by the roofer (charges included in the contract) __________

C A A- QUEBEC RESIDENTIAL ADVISORY SERVICES : 1 888 627- 6666

17

CONTACT DETAILS, LICENCES, PERMITS AND INSURANCE Name and address of customer:

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Name and address of company:

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ RBQ (Régie du bâtiment du Québec) licence no.:

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Reminder: check that the licence is still valid, which is legally required, by calling the RBQ or visiting its website. OPC itinerant merchant no. (Office de la protection du consommateur):

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Reminder: check with an OPC regional office or on the OPC website to see whether the licence is still valid. GST no.: ____________________________________________________________ QST no.: ____________________________________________________________ Liability insurance Name of company:

________________________________________________________________________________________

Policy no.: _________________________________________________________________________________________________ Coverage amount: _________________________________________________________________________________________ CSST (Commission de la santé et de la sécurité du travail) registration no.:

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ CCQ (Commission de la construction du Québec) registration no., if necessary:

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

C A A- QUEBEC RESIDENTIAL ADVISORY SERVICES : 1 888 627- 6666

18

MATERIALS AND INSTALLATION WORK Protection of the premises (flowers, plants, bushes) _____________ and regular cleaning ______________

The use of a magnetic broom is recommended to pick up nails and other metal debris around the house. Removal of the existing roof covering _________ and transportation of debris _________ Recycling of removed shingles: yes _____

no _____

or other materials ________________________

Eaves protection

Type of membrane: _________________________ installed over an area of _____________ Installation of metal drip edges: yes (colour) _____

no _____

Underlay on the remaining surface of the roof:

15-pound asphalt felt paper ___________________________ Synthetic underlay __________________________________ Protection of open ____________ or closed ____________ valleys Including the installation of a membrane ____________ and sheeting ____________ Flashing at the base of the chimney and/or the walls: ______________________________________________________ Saddle at the upper base of the chimney: __________________________________________________________________ Plumbing vent flashing: ___________________________________________________________________________________ Other flashing: ____________________________________________________________________________________________ Brand, model and colour of the shingles: Type of installation

__________________________________________________________________

Resistance to normal wind

____________ km/h

Resistance to strong wind

____________ km/h

Roof vents

Reinstallation of existing vents: ___________________________ Replacement of existing vents (brand, model, colour):

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Additional vents added:

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

C A A- QUEBEC RESIDENTIAL ADVISORY SERVICES : 1 888 627- 6666

19

WARRANTIES AND TERMS OF PAYMENT Shingle manufacturer warranty: __________________________________________________________________________ Vent manufacturer warranty: _____________________________________________________________________________ Installer’s warranty: ______________________________________________________________________________________ Scheduled installation date : ________________________ Total cost of work: $ ____________________________ Terms of payment (schedule, payments, etc.):

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

OBTAINING A RENOVATION PERMIT Numerous municipalities require a permit for carrying out roof repairs or renovations. Check with your city’s planning department to see whether you need such a permit. The contractor must comply with the municipality’s regulatory requirements, if applicable. Person responsible for making the request: owner _____ Cost of the permit paid by: owner _____

or contractor _____

or contractor (included in the cost) _____

REFERENCES (OPTIONNAL) Contractor’s professional affiliations (e.g., Association de la construction du Québec):

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Roofer certified by the manufacturer (e.g., BP, CertainTeed, GAF, IKO):

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ References from recent customers:

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

WARRANTIES INCLUDED IN THE CONTRACT In terms of coverage, a homeowner should usually receive warranties from both the manufacturer and the roofer. The manufacturer is responsible for any defects in the design of the shingles that have allowed water to infiltrate, while the contractor is responsible for repairing, at its own expense, any faulty installation work that has resulted in water infiltration. The next section deals specifically with warranty programs that protect your roof from unpleasant surprises.

C A A- QUEBEC RESIDENTIAL ADVISORY SERVICES : 1 888 627- 6666

20

AFTER THE WORK IS DONE: MEASURES TO PROTECT YOU— THE WARRANTIES In addition to preventive maintenance, which will help you keep your roof in good condition, warranty programs are a good way to protect your investment. However, you must take into account any problems that can render them null and void. The durability of the covering depends on a number of factors, several of which have been mentioned in previous sections: • Quality of installation; • Condition of the decking; • Attic ventilation; • Exposure to sun, wind, rain and hail; • Snow or ice accumulation; • Walking on the roof, etc. Among these points, the ones most likely to prevent you from making a claim under a warranty are the first three, which involve the improper installation of shingles and unresolved insulation and ventilation issues. However, if you have fixed any problems with your roof and the shingles have been installed properly, the work will be covered by one or more of the following warranties.

C A A- QUEBEC RESIDENTIAL ADVISORY SERVICES : 1 888 627- 6666

21

SHINGLE MANUFACTURER WARRANTY Over the years, shingle manufacturers have partnered with roofers to introduce excellence awards programs. The certification that these programs offer is certainly an advantage, although not necessarily required when choosing a good roofer.

INITIAL PROTECTION Laminated shingles, which are twice as thick, offer a longer warranty than do single-layer models. Manufacturers initially offer a basic 100% warranty. The usual warranty period is five years for single-layer shingles and 15 years for laminates. Thereafter, the refundable portion of the cost of the shingles decreases over time until the warranty ends. Labour is no longer included at this point.

SPECIFIC PROTECTION Protection against the development of blue-green algae and damage caused by strong winds is now offered in manufacturer warranties. However, be aware that the notion of strong wind differs for single and laminated shingles. Laminates can handle more powerful gusts, and are guaranteed to last longer. More nails and sealant are required to install shingles that are resistant to high winds.

EXTENDED MANUFACTURER WARRANTIES

IF THERE’S A PROBLEM, DO YOU KNOW ALL OF YOUR RIGHTS AND RECOURSES?

There are extended warranties for roofing systems consisting of an assembly of selected shingles, eaves membrane and underlay. These ambitious—and more costly—programs provide long-term coverage (up to 50 years) for both materials and labour. As such, only a roofer certified by the manufacturer can carry out work covered by such warranties.

ROOFER WARRANTY The Civil Code of Quebec stipulates that the contractor is “liable to warrant the work for one year against poor workmanship existing at the time of acceptance or discovered within one year after acceptance” (Section 2120). As well, the contractor is “liable for the loss of the work occurring within five years after the work was completed, whether the loss results from faulty design, construction or production of the work” (Section 2118). Applied to the field of roof repair, this second section means that the contractor must ensure the roof covering remains waterproof for at least five years after the work has been completed. It is up to the contractor to specify all inclusions and exclusions to the warranty; during this period, however, the contractor still has a duty to repair, at its own expense, any faulty installation work that has resulted in water infiltration. What recourse do you have if the company that repaired your roof no longer exists? To deal with this type of situation, contractor associations have introduced measures to maintain a roofer’s warranty for the five years following completion of the work. In addition to these warranty plans, a contractor who is a member of a recognized professional association receives training, participates in excellence awards programs, and so on. Roofers must pay for their voluntary memberships in one or another of these programs.

C A A- QUEBEC RESIDENTIAL ADVISORY SERVICES : 1 888 627- 6666

22

CONTACT THE RESIDENTIAL SPECIALISTS AT CAA-QUEBEC IF YOU HAVE ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR ROOF.

The two major contractor associations in Quebec are: • The Association provinciale des constructeurs d’habitations du Québec (APCHQ), which runs the Réno-Maître couvreur program; • The Association de la construction du Québec (ACQ), which runs the Qualité Habitation program. ACQ or AECQ? These two abbreviations, although similar, stand for two separate organizations. The Association des entrepreneurs en construction du Québec (AECQ) is responsible for labour relations in the construction industry. Membership is mandatory.

ROOFER WARRANTY EXTENDED BY AN ASSOCIATION For its part, the Association des maîtres couvreurs du Québec (AMCQ) offers an additional optional five-year warranty for its members through its “5 + 5 program”: once a roofer’s five-year warranty has expired, the AMCQ provides its own for another five years. During installation, all members of the AMCQ must meet the specifications of the association, known for its rigorous technical standards, which are broader than those of the NBC.

RBQ LICENCE SECURITY A roofing contractor applying for a licence must make a deposit of $10,000 with the Régie du bâtiment du Québec; this serves as a guarantee that the contractor will meet all contractual obligations. This amount is intended to compensate any customer for work not done, not completed, or done improperly. With regard to this last point, any problems must be identified in the year following completion of the work.

C A A- QUEBEC RESIDENTIAL ADVISORY SERVICES : 1 888 627- 6666

23

CONCLUSION: MAKING SURE YOUR ROOF IS PROPERLY MAINTAINED As an owner, you must be sure to maintain your roof properly… no matter how good the warranty is or how durable the shingles are! Otherwise, you won’t get as much out of your investment as you could have. The following tips will help you maintain your roof: • If you need to go up onto your roof, avoid doing so in very hot or cold weather and walk softly. • Remove anything that may interfere with the normal flow of water; don’t leave debris on the roof or in the gutters. • Inspect the roof and the attic in the spring and fall. Be sure to take all necessary safety precautions when doing so. • After a major weather event, have a professional inspection done. • Once every year or two, check to see whether the joints around the vents and chimney are dry, loose or cracked. • If necessary, trim any tree branches that could come into contact with the roof. • Take a look at roof vents and skylights; heavy snow coverage will impede the regular flow of water. • If you need to clear snow or ice from the roof, use equipment made from plastic (without sharp or pointed ends) and leave a layer of snow to avoid damaging the roof covering. It is often a good idea to entrust this task to a professional. • If you urgently need to remove ice, choose the best way to limit the damage: pour hot water down the roof to create channels through which water will drain. Feel free to contact CAA-Quebec’s Residential Advisory Services specialists if you have additional questions about repairing your roof. They can provide you with assistance every step of the way. After all, a roof is never something to be taken lightly. In addition to providing you with shelter, it protects—and will continue to protect—your property and, most importantly, your loved ones! C A A- QUEBEC RESIDENTIAL ADVISORY SERVICES : 1 888 627- 6666

24

APPENDICES RECYCLING SHINGLES Companies that collect and recycle building materials in Quebec now accept asphalt shingles, which are reused in asphalt mixes for road surfacing and as a source of fuel in cement kilns. To prevent resources that are still useful from going into landfill, find out what kinds of materials can be collected in your area. A list of main addresses is available on the RECYC-Québec website (in French only).

USING APPROVED MATERIALS There are several paragraphs in the National Building Code (NBC) regarding the use of asphalt shingles. These are certified under Canadian standards and accepted by professional bodies across the country. Beware of any new roofing materials that are not in compliance with the NBC.

INSURANCE MANDATORY INSURANCE FROM THE CSST The contractor must be registered as an employer with the Commission de la santé et de la sécurité du travail (CSST). This insurance protects the contractor’s business against the risk of significant financial obligations arising from a work-related injury.

LIABILITY INSURANCE The contractor must confirm that it has liability insurance for the duration of the work. This insurance provides protection against compensation claims for personal injury or property damage caused by actions taken (or not taken) by the contractor or employees. It would also be wise to notify your insurance company that you are having your roof redone.

C A A- QUEBEC RESIDENTIAL ADVISORY SERVICES : 1 888 627- 6666

25

CLAIMS RELATED TO ITINERANT SALES The Office de la protection du consommateur (OPC) provides assistance to individuals needing to cancel a contract with an itinerant merchant. You will find information below regarding your rights, as well as a link to the form required to cancel a signed contract, if necessary.

A) CONSUMER CANCELLATION RIGHTS (Consumer Protection Act, sections 58 and 59) After signing a contract, you may cancel it for any reason within 10 days after you receive a copy of the contract along with the other required documents. If you do not receive the goods or services within 30 days of the date stated in the contract, you may cancel the contract within one year. However, you lose that right if you accept delivery after the 30 days. For more information, you may seek legal advice or contact the OPC.

B) CANCELLATION FORM CANCELLATION FORM (detachable from schedule) TO BE COMPLETED BY THE MERCHANT

To: ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ (name of itinerant merchant or representative)

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ (address of itinerant merchant or representative)

( ______ ) _________________________

Telephone number of itinerant merchant or representative: Fax number of itinerant merchant or representative: Electronic address of itinerant merchant or representative:

( ______ ) _________________________

___________________________________________

TO BE COMPLETED BY THE CONSUMER

Date: ___________________________________________ (date on which form is sent) By virtue of section 59 of the Consumer Protection Act, I hereby cancel the contract No. _______________________(contract number, if any) made on __________________________________ (date of contract) àt ________________________________________________________ (address where contract was signed by consumer) To: ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ (name of itinerant merchant or representative)

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ (name of consumer)

Telephone number of consumer: Fax number of consumer: Electronic address of consumer:

( ______ ) _________________________

( ______ ) _________________________ _____________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ (address of consumer)

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ (signature of consumer)

C A A- QUEBEC RESIDENTIAL ADVISORY SERVICES : 1 888 627- 6666

26

YOUR OPINION ABOUT THIS HANDBOOK REALLY MATTERS TO US! Please take a few minutes to complete the survey at caaquebec.com/survey. YOU COULD WIN:

100 CAA-Quebec Dollars!

caaquebec.com caaquebec.com