A metal roof installed correctly lasts 40 to 70 years in Ottawa's climate. No ice dam risk. No shingle blow-offs in windstorms. No replacement in 15 years. Guns N' Hoses installs metal roofing systems built for what Ottawa's weather actually does to a roof every winter.
40–70 year lifespan. Free written estimates. Serving all of Ottawa.
Metal roofing has grown significantly in Ottawa over the past decade — and for good reason. In a climate with heavy snow, severe wind, ice dams, and temperature swings of 60 degrees between seasons, metal outperforms asphalt shingles on almost every measure that matters over a 30-year horizon. The higher upfront cost is the only category where asphalt wins. Guns N' Hoses installs metal roofing systems and can walk you through an honest comparison so you can decide what is right for your home and your budget.
Metal roofing's smooth surface sheds snow before it accumulates enough to melt and refreeze at the eaves. Ice dams — Ottawa's most common cause of roof leaks — are essentially eliminated on a properly installed metal roof.
Metal roofing systems are engineered to handle the snow loads Ottawa roofs face every winter. The structural integrity of a standing seam or metal shingle system does not degrade under repeated heavy snow accumulation the way aging asphalt does.
Ottawa windstorms regularly lift asphalt shingles. Metal roofing panels and shingles are mechanically fastened or interlocked — they do not lift, crack, or blow off in the wind events Ottawa experiences several times per year.
A quality metal roof installed correctly in Ottawa will outlast two or three asphalt roofs. For homeowners planning to stay in their home long-term, the math over 40 years strongly favours metal despite the higher upfront cost.
Metal roofing reflects solar radiation rather than absorbing it. Ottawa summers are hot — a metal roof keeps attic temperatures lower, reducing cooling costs during the months when air conditioning runs hardest.
Asphalt shingles require periodic inspection for granule loss, cracking, and lifted edges. A properly installed metal roof requires minimal maintenance over its lifespan — occasional inspection of fasteners and sealants is typically all that is needed.
The premium metal roofing system. Panels run vertically from ridge to eave with raised interlocking seams — no exposed fasteners, clean modern appearance, and the highest level of weather resistance available. Increasingly common on Ottawa homes in Manotick, Westboro, and the Glebe where homeowners want a premium long-term solution.
A metal roofing system that replicates the appearance of traditional shingles, cedar shake, or slate. Metal shingles give homeowners the performance benefits of metal with a more traditional aesthetic — a strong choice for heritage neighbourhoods and character homes across Ottawa.
A durable and cost-effective metal roofing option well suited to agricultural buildings, garages, workshops, and outbuildings. Guns N' Hoses installs corrugated metal panels for residential outbuildings and rural properties across Ottawa and surrounding areas including Manotick and Carp.
| Category | Metal Roofing | Asphalt Shingles |
|---|---|---|
| Lifespan | 40–70 years | 15–25 years |
| Upfront cost | Higher | Lower |
| Ice dam risk | Very low | High in Ottawa |
| Wind resistance | Excellent | Moderate |
| Snow shedding | Excellent | Moderate |
| Maintenance | Minimal | Periodic inspection |
| Energy efficiency | High (reflective) | Moderate |
| Replacements over 40 years | 0–1 | 2–3 |
| 40-year total cost | Lower in most scenarios | Higher in most scenarios |
The 40-year total cost comparison almost always favours metal once you account for two or three asphalt replacements, each with current labour and material costs. We can walk you through this calculation for your specific home during a free consultation.
Metal expands and contracts with temperature changes. Ottawa's 60-degree seasonal temperature swing means a metal roof must be installed with proper allowance for thermal movement — particularly at fasteners and penetrations. Incorrect installation leads to fastener failure and leaks within a few years. We install metal roofing to manufacturer specifications for Canadian climate conditions.
Metal roofing requires a specific underlayment — synthetic underlayments that handle the heat metal generates in summer and remain flexible in Ottawa winters. The wrong underlayment under a metal roof degrades faster than the metal above it.
A common concern about metal roofing is noise during rain. With proper underlayment and attic insulation — both of which Ottawa homes require anyway — a metal roof is no louder than asphalt during rain. We address this honestly with every client who asks.
Metal roofing can in some cases be installed over an existing asphalt layer — but only if the deck is in sound condition and the existing layer count permits it under Ontario Building Code. We inspect and confirm during the quote process.
We inspect your existing roof, assess the deck condition, take measurements, and discuss metal roofing system options. You receive a detailed written quote specifying the system, materials, and timeline before any work begins.
We walk you through panel profile options, colours, and finishes. Metal roofing colour selection is more permanent than asphalt — we take the time to make sure you are confident in the choice.
Existing roofing removed or prepared. Deck inspected and repaired if needed. Underlayment installed. Metal roofing system installed to manufacturer specifications and Ontario Building Code standards with particular attention to thermal movement allowances, penetration flashings, and ridge and eave details.
Full inspection before we leave the site. Metal roofing manufacturer warranties typically run 40–50 years on the finish and lifetime on the panel system. Our workmanship guarantee applies to all installation work.
“Vanessa and her team did my parents' roof a few months back. She was very quick to respond and communication was great. She had a lot of patience explaining things to my parents as they don't speak English very well.”
— Jenn, South Keys, Ottawa
“I would highly recommend. We had a leak in our roof and Vanessa and her team were able to fix the issue in a timely manner. We will be using her services again.”
— Sunny, Gloucester
Written quote before any work starts. We'll walk you through system options and an honest 40-year cost comparison.
Call Vanessa Directly
613-801-8582Send Us an Email
info@gunsnhosesroofing.caService Area
Ottawa · Nepean · Kanata · Stittsville · Gloucester · Orleans
Mon – Fri
7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sat – Sun
By Appointment
Written quote before any work starts. We'll be in touch within 24 hours.
Every day you delay could mean more damage, more cost, more risk. Let Ottawa's most trusted roofing team give you peace of mind — starting with a free inspection.