Greater Vancouver's Complete Guide to Roofing
Everything you need to know about roofing in Greater Vancouver: costs, materials, what to expect, and who to call. Whether you need a complete roof replacement, emergency repairs, or routine maintenance to handle Vancouver's notoriously wet climate, this guide covers it all. Vancouver homeowners typically pay $10,000-$25,000 for roof replacement, $300-$2,000+ for repairs, and $200-$500 for professional inspections. Below you'll find detailed pricing, material comparisons for our rainy conditions, neighborhood-specific tips, and our recommendation for the top-rated roofer serving Metro Vancouver.
Our #1 Recommended Vancouver Roofer
Penfolds Roofing & Solar
Why we recommend Penfolds Roofing & Solar:
- 87+ years serving Greater Vancouver since 1937
- Family-owned with lifetime warranty on workmanship
- BBB A+ rating with hundreds of verified reviews
- 24/7 emergency roofing service available
- Full-service: residential, commercial, and solar installation
- Three convenient locations across Metro Vancouver
Free estimates · Licensed & insured · Serving Vancouver since 1937
What to Look for in a Vancouver Roofer
Hiring a roofer in Vancouver requires attention to factors unique to our coastal climate. The best roofers understand our extreme rainfall (over 1,189mm annually), the challenge of moss and algae growth, proper ventilation for our humid conditions, and which materials actually perform well here. Before hiring any roofing company, verify they're properly licensed to operate in British Columbia, carry comprehensive general liability insurance ($2M+ recommended), and maintain WorkSafeBC coverage. Ask for a detailed written quote—reputable companies provide transparent pricing with no hidden fees or surprise charges.
Licensed & Insured
Verify BC business license, liability insurance ($2M+), and WorkSafeBC coverage
Reviews & Reputation
Check Google reviews, BBB rating, and HomeStars profiles for track record
Wet Climate Expertise
Experience with rain protection, moss prevention, and proper ventilation
Transparent Pricing
Written quotes with itemized costs — no surprises or hidden fees
Common Roofing Services & Costs in Vancouver
Vancouver roofing companies typically offer three core service categories: complete roof replacement, repairs and maintenance, and specialty installations like metal roofing or solar integration. Understanding what each service includes—and what it costs—helps you budget appropriately and compare quotes from different providers.
🏠 Roof Replacement
Complete tear-off and installation of new roofing materials. Includes deck inspection, ice & water shield, underlayment, and cleanup. Most Vancouver homes take 2-5 days.
$10,000 – $25,000+
Replacement guide →🔧 Roof Repair
Professional repair for leaks, missing shingles, flashing damage, and storm damage. Includes moss removal and preventative treatments for Vancouver's wet conditions.
$300 – $2,000+
Repair guide →🔩 Metal Roofing
Premium metal roofing installation including standing seam, metal shingles, and corrugated panels. Ideal for Vancouver's heavy rainfall—lasts 40-70 years.
$15,000 – $40,000+
Metal roofing guide →Roofing Costs in Vancouver (2025-2026)
Understanding roofing costs helps you plan your project budget. Here's what Vancouver homeowners typically pay for professional roofing services:
Common Service Costs
- Roof replacement (shingles): $10,000-$25,000 (depending on roof size and complexity)
- Metal roof installation: $15,000-$40,000+
- Flat roof replacement (torch-on): $8,000-$15,000
- Roof repair: $300-$2,000 (depending on scope)
- Emergency leak repair: $400-$1,500
- Roof inspection: $200-$500
- Moss removal & treatment: $200-$600
- Gutter replacement: $1,000-$3,000
Note: Vancouver roofing costs are typically 20-30% higher than other Canadian cities due to labour rates and cost of living. Heritage homes and complex roof designs add additional costs.
Roofing Materials for Vancouver's Wet Climate
Vancouver's extreme rainfall—approximately 1,189mm annually, making it Canada's wettest major city—demands roofing materials that excel at moisture protection. The city experiences rain on roughly 166 days per year, creating ideal conditions for moss growth, algae staining, and moisture damage. Additionally, Vancouver's mild temperatures mean freeze-thaw cycles are less frequent than other Canadian cities, but proper drainage and ventilation remain critical to prevent rot and mold in our humid coastal climate.
Best Materials for Vancouver
- Architectural Shingles: Most popular choice. 25-30 year warranty, algae-resistant options available. Cost: $4-$6/sq ft installed. Look for GAF, CertainTeed, or Owens Corning brands with algae-resistant technology.
- Metal Roofing: Superior rain protection, 40-70 year lifespan. Standing seam handles heavy rain exceptionally well. Cost: $8-$14/sq ft installed. Growing in popularity for Vancouver's climate.
- Torch-On Membrane: Ideal for flat or low-slope roofs (common in Vancouver). Excellent waterproofing. Cost: $6-$10/sq ft installed. Modified bitumen provides reliable protection.
- Cedar Shakes: Traditional West Coast look, but requires significant maintenance in Vancouver's wet climate. Prone to moss and rot without regular treatment. Cost: $12-$20/sq ft installed.
Read our full metal roofing guide for more on premium material options and long-term value comparisons.
Roofing by Neighborhood in Greater Vancouver
Different neighborhoods across Metro Vancouver have unique roofing considerations based on age of housing stock, architectural styles, and local regulations. Click any area for detailed local information:
North Vancouver and West Vancouver see even higher rainfall than the city core, making quality roofing critical. Richmond's flat terrain means many homes have low-slope roofs requiring specialized materials. Burnaby and New Westminster have significant heritage housing stock with unique roofing requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a new roof cost in Vancouver?
A complete roof replacement in Vancouver typically costs $10,000-$25,000 for an average single-family home, though prices vary significantly by material and roof complexity. Architectural shingles run $10,000-$18,000, metal roofing costs $15,000-$40,000+, and premium materials like slate or cedar shakes can exceed $30,000. Vancouver's costs are 20-30% higher than other Canadian cities due to labour rates and the high cost of living in the Lower Mainland.
What roofing materials work best for Vancouver's rainy climate?
Vancouver receives approximately 1,189mm of annual rainfall—more than any other major Canadian city—making moisture protection the top priority. Architectural asphalt shingles with algae resistance perform well for most homes. Metal roofing (standing seam or metal shingles) offers superior rain protection and longevity. Torch-on membrane is popular for flat or low-slope roofs common in Vancouver. Cedar shakes are traditional but require diligent maintenance to prevent moss and rot.
When is the best time to replace a roof in Vancouver?
The ideal time for roof replacement in Vancouver is during the drier months from May through September, when reduced rainfall allows for proper installation conditions. Most roofing companies are busiest June through August, so booking in spring or early fall can mean better availability and potentially lower prices. Emergency repairs happen year-round, though winter installations during dry spells are possible with experienced crews.
Do I need a permit to replace my roof in Vancouver?
Yes, the City of Vancouver requires a building permit for full roof replacements and major roofing work. The permit costs approximately $150-$300 for residential projects and ensures work meets BC Building Code requirements. Minor repairs typically don't require permits. Reputable roofing contractors handle permit applications as part of their service. For heritage homes or homes in specific zoning areas, additional approvals may be required.
How long does a roof last in Vancouver's wet climate?
Roof longevity in Vancouver depends on material quality and maintenance. Architectural shingles typically last 20-30 years, though Vancouver's moisture can shorten this to 15-25 years without proper maintenance. Metal roofing lasts 40-70 years and handles rain exceptionally well. Torch-on flat roofs last 15-25 years. Regular maintenance—cleaning gutters, removing moss, trimming overhanging branches—extends any roof's lifespan significantly in this climate.