Many homes throughout North Vancouver were originally built with cedar shake roofs. While cedar offers a distinctive appearance, time, moisture, and decades of exposure eventually take their toll. As these roofs age, homeowners often upgrade to a composite shake asphalt roofing system for improved weather protection, lower maintenance requirements, and a much longer service life.
That was the objective of this project in Deep Cove. Our production crew replaced the aging cedar-shake roof with a comprehensive system designed for stronger long-term performance.
Starting with a clean foundation
The project began with the complete removal and disposal of the original cedar shakes on the main house. Rather than simply covering the existing roof, the entire roofing assembly was stripped back to allow the underlying structure to be properly evaluated.
As the old roofing was removed, the project manager inspected the roof deck, attic ventilation, framing, and other structural components affecting the new roofing system. Any hidden issues requiring additional repairs were identified before new materials were installed, helping prevent unpleasant surprises later.
A new 1/2-inch plywood roof deck was then installed across the entire roof, creating a solid, uniform base for the new roofing system.
A roofing system, not just new shingles
An Absolute Roof Solutions installation focuses on thorough inspections throughout the tear-off and installation process.
For this project, the new asphalt shingles were installed in accordance with both the BC Building Code and the manufacturer’s installation specifications. Absolute Roof Solutions also incorporated upgrades designed to improve long-term performance.
These improvements included:
- Heavy-duty synthetic roofing underlayment instead of standard felt.
- Ice and water shield waterproof membrane around chimneys, skylights, penetrations, and all eaves.
- New metal drip edge along the roof edges.
- New flashings around chimneys, skylights, plumbing vents, and roof penetrations.
- Hot-dipped galvanized roofing nails for superior corrosion resistance.
- High-profile ridge caps for improved appearance and weather protection.
Each component contributes to a roofing system that better resists wind-driven rain, moisture intrusion, and Vancouver’s challenging weather conditions.
Improving roof ventilation
Proper attic ventilation plays an important role in extending the life of any roof.
As part of this project, Absolute Roof Solutions carefully evaluated both intake and exhaust ventilation before installing the new roofing system. Ridge vents were added along the main roof ridges to improve attic exhaust, while additional linear intake vents were installed in selected roof sections to improve overall airflow. The project manager also inspected for any framing or insulation that might restrict air movement.
Balanced ventilation helps reduce heat buildup, control moisture, and support the manufacturer’s warranty requirements.
Attention to every detail
Throughout the project, the crew took care to protect the property and landscaping while maintaining a safe worksite. Roofing materials were crane-loaded whenever possible, temporary weather protection was maintained throughout construction, and the roof was opened only in sections that could be fully protected the same day.
Upon completion, the site was thoroughly cleaned, and the finished roof received a last inspection.
The homeowner then received a final roof inspection report with photos, a copy of Absolute Roof Solutions’ 10-Year Workmanship Limited Warranty, and the manufacturer’s Limited Lifetime Shingle Warranty.
A job well done.
