Are you looking at your roof and wondering how much longer it will last? Or perhaps you're planning to redo it soon and are hesitating between traditional asphalt and metal?

This is a question we often hear at Cartago Construction. And it's not surprising, your roof is your home's first line of defense against our Quebec winters.

Here in Longueuil, with our average temperatures of 7.1°C but winters that drop to -16°C, our 1,159 mm of precipitation per year, and our constant freeze-thaw cycles, choosing the right roofing is critical.

Asphalt costs less upfront, but lasts 15-25 years on average. Metal costs more, but can last 50 years or more. So which is truly the best investment for your home?

We'll break it all down together, with real 2025 market figures, concrete examples, and advice you can use right now.

How Longueuil's climate directly influences your roofing choice

The Quebec climate puts enormous pressure on roofs. And in Longueuil, on the South Shore, we have all the ingredients to accelerate the aging of any roof.

It's not just a matter of snow or cold. It's the combination of several factors working together to wear out your roof faster than you think.

Freeze-thaw cycles, snow, and infiltration

Freeze-thaw cycles are the number one public enemy of your roof.

Here's how it works: Rainwater or melting snow seeps under a slightly lifted shingle. At night, it freezes. The water turns to ice and expands, lifting the shingle even more. The next day, it thaws, and the water penetrates deeper. In the evening, it freezes again.

This cycle repeats dozens of times every winter in Longueuil. And each time, your shingles deteriorate a little more.

Aging asphalt shingles are particularly vulnerable. After 10-15 years of exposure, the protective granules detach, and the bitumen becomes brittle. At this stage, freeze-thaw cycles exponentially accelerate degradation.

The other major problem? Ice dams, what are called «ice dams» in English.

This happens most often with bungalows that have pronounced eaves. The heat escaping from your house melts the snow on the top of the roof. The water flows down but freezes when it reaches the cold part of the eave. Ice accumulates, creating a dam, and water begins to stagnate under the shingles.

Result? Water infiltration, ceiling stains, mold in the attic. I've seen cases in Saint-Hubert where homeowners had to replace all their attic insulation because of it.

Ventilation and insulation: often underestimated factors

Do you know what kills an asphalt roof faster than the climate? Poor attic ventilation.

If your attic is poorly ventilated, heat builds up in the winter. This melts the snow on your roof, creates ice dams, and speeds up the aging of shingles from the inside.

In summer, a poorly ventilated attic can reach 65-70°C. At this temperature, the bitumen in asphalt shingles literally bakes. The shingles become brittle and degrade in a few years instead of 20-25 years.

Insulation also plays a huge role. If your insulation has an insufficient R-value, below R-40 for Longueuil according to 2025 standards, you lose heat through the roof. This increases your heating costs and creates the perfect conditions for ice dams.

Quebec's building codes were strengthened in April 2025 precisely for this reason. The new insulation and ventilation requirements are stricter. If you are redoing your roof, your contractor must ensure that your attic meets these standards.

At Cartago Construction, we always inspect ventilation and insulation before providing a quote. Because installing a beautiful new roof on a poorly ventilated attic means wasting your money.

The Main Types of Residential Roofing in Longueuil (Comparison)

Now, let's talk materials. What are your real options in Longueuil in 2025?

There are essentially three main categories: asphalt, metal, and membranes. Each has its advantages and limitations.

Asphalt Shingles – The Most Common Choice

Asphalt shingles account for 80 to 90 percent of residential roofs in Quebec. Why? Because they’re affordable, easy to install, and perform well when installed properly.

The benefits? The upfront cost is unbeatable. You can replace an asphalt roof for $6,000 to $15,000, depending on the size of your home. That’s affordable for most budgets.

Asphalt also offers excellent sound insulation. If you've ever lived under a metal roof during heavy rain, you understand what I mean. With asphalt, you hear almost nothing.

And on the aesthetic side, the choices are endless. Different colors, different textures, shingles that mimic slate or wood. You can easily customize the look of your home.

But there are limits. Asphalt shingles age. UV rays degrade the granules. Freeze-thaw cycles lift the shingles. After 15-20 years, you start to see signs of wear: granules in the gutters, curled shingles, lifting corners.

And contrary to what some sellers claim, even premium «architectural» shingles that promise 30-40 years rarely last more than 25 years in our climate. Manufacturer warranties are often limited to manufacturing defects, not normal wear and tear.

Actual Lifespan in Longueuil

Under ideal conditions, with good ventilation, adequate insulation, and professional installation, quality asphalt shingles can last 25 to 30 years in Longueuil.

But in reality, most asphalt roofs show signs of fatigue after 15 to 20 years. And after 20 years, you need to monitor closely and plan for a replacement.

If your attic is poorly ventilated or if the installation was done quickly by amateurs, you may have problems as early as 10-12 years.

The message? Asphalt is a good choice if you have a limited budget and plan to sell or renovate in 15-20 years. But it's not a permanent solution.

Metal Roofing – The Long-Term Investment

Metal is the premium option. And I'm not saying that because it's more expensive, I'm saying that because it's literally designed to last your entire life.

A well-installed metal roof lasts between 40 and 70 years. Sometimes more. I've seen corrugated metal roofs on old farms in the Montérégie region that are 50-60 years old and are still in perfect condition.

Metal withstands everything. Snow? It lets it slide off. Wind? It holds up to 190 km/h, even during storms. Fire? It doesn’t burn. Hail? It makes noise, but it doesn’t damage it.

Freeze-thaw cycles do absolutely nothing to it. Unlike asphalt, which absorbs moisture, metal lets everything run off. No ice dams, no leaks, no problems.

Another often-overlooked benefit: energy savings. Metal roofs with a reflective coating can reduce your air conditioning costs by 10 to 15 percent in the summer. Heat is reflected rather than absorbed.

And at the end of its life cycle—in 50 to 70 years—the metal is 100% recyclable. Unlike asphalt shingles, which end up in landfills, metal is returned to the production cycle.

The only real downside? The initial cost. We'll discuss this in the next section, but you'll pay 2 to 3 times more than for an asphalt roof.

For what types of owners?

Metal makes sense if you are in at least one of these situations:

You're 40 or older and plan to stay in your home until retirement and beyond. You want to get your roof redone once and forget about it for the next 40-50 years.

You calculate the return on investment. You understand that a $30,000 roof that lasts 50 years costs $600 per year, compared to a $12,000 roof that lasts 20 years at $600 per year, except that with asphalt, you have to replace it 2–3 times over the same period.

You are environmentally conscious. Metal is durable, recyclable, and energy-efficient.

You want zero maintenance. A visual inspection every 5 years, and that's it. No repairs, no shingles to replace, nothing.

If you sell in 5-10 years, however, the metal might make less sense. You won't recoup the price difference on resale, even if it adds value.

Membranes (elastomer, TPO) – special cases

Membranes aren't for everyone. They're mainly for flat or very low-slope roofs.

If you have a bungalow with a flat roof section, an addition with a flat roof, or a duplex, membranes are your only realistic option.

There are two main families: elastomer membranes (black, installed with a torch) and thermoplastic membranes like TPO (white, glued or welded).

The elastomer lasts 25 to 30 years. It is very resistant to freeze-thaw cycles and temperature fluctuations. However, it absorbs heat in the summer, which can increase your air conditioning costs.

White TPO is the opposite. It reflects heat, which keeps your home cooler in the summer. And it lasts about 20 to 25 years. It's a good choice if you have living spaces under the flat roof.

Membranes require regular maintenance, annual inspection, drain cleaning, and minor repairs. But if you have a flat roof, you don't really have a choice.

Not sure what type of roofing is right for your home? Get a free assessment tailored to your situation in Longueuil, we come to inspect your current roof, we assess your needs, and we give you honest advice.

Actual roofing costs in Longueuil in 2025-2026

Let's talk numbers. Because while comparing materials is all well and good, in the end, you have a budget.

Here's what it really costs to replace a residential roof in Longueuil in 2025, with prices based on actual projects.

Average Installed Prices (CAD/sf)

Prices vary based on several factors: roof size, complexity (multiple slopes, dormers, chimneys), site accessibility, and the condition of the existing structure.

However, here are the typical ranges for a standard residential house in Longueuil:

Asphalt shingles 6 $ to 12 $ per square foot
This includes removing the old shingles, installing a protective membrane, new shingles, and professional installation. For premium architectural shingles, the cost ranges from $10,000 to $12,000.

Metal roofing 13 $ to 30 $ per square foot
Prices vary widely depending on the type of metal (galvanized steel, aluminum, enameled steel) and the style (profiled sheet metal, shingle-style). Standard profiled sheet metal costs around $13–$18 per square, while premium systems that mimic slate or wood cost around $25–$30 per square.

Membranes (elastomer or TPO): 11 $ to 23 $ per square foot
It is more technically challenging to install than asphalt, and therefore more expensive. Elastomeric roofing typically costs around 11–16 $, while white TPO costs around 15–23 $.

These prices include labor, materials, and the contractor's warranty. They do not include structural repairs if your roof has rot or framing issues.

Concrete example – 2000 to 3000 sq ft bungalow

Let's take a typical example: a single-story bungalow in Longueuil, with a roof area between 2,000 and 3,000 sq ft. That's the average size we see on the South Shore.

Asphalt roofing
2,000 sq ft × 6–12 $ = 12,000 $ to 24,000 $
3,000 sq ft × 6–12 1BR/4BA = 18,000 1BR/4BA to 36,000 1BR/4BA

Metal roofing
2,000 sq ft × 13–30 1BR/4BA = 26,000 1BR/4BA to 60,000 1BR/4BA
3,000 sq ft × $13–$30 per square foot = $39,000–$90,000

The difference is important. But let's look further.

If you choose asphalt at 18,000 $ and it lasts 20 years, it will cost you 900 $ per year. And in 20 years, you’ll have to start over, probably at 25,000 $ or more due to inflation.

If you choose the metal that costs 40,000 $ and lasts 50 years, it will cost you 800 $ per year. And you only do this once in your lifetime.

Over 50 years, asphalt will cost you at least 60,000 $ (three replacements), compared to 40,000 $ for metal (a single replacement).

Metal costs more upfront, but less in the long run. It's mathematics.

Looking for an accurate price for your home? Request a free personalized estimate in Longueuil., we calculate the exact surface area of your roof, we assess its complexity, and we give you a fair price, with no surprises.

Common Myths About Roofing in Quebec (and the Reality)

There is a lot of misinformation circulating about roofing. Old prejudices, well-intentioned advice from neighbors, salespeople pushing their products.

Let's set the record straight.

«Asphalt withstands freeze-thaw very well»

Not really. Asphalt tolerates freeze-thaw cycles, but it still wears it down.

Asphalt shingles are designed to absorb a bit of moisture and let it evaporate. But when moisture freezes before it evaporates, it creates micro-cracks in the bitumen. Over time, these cracks widen.

The problem worsens if your attic is poorly ventilated. The rising heat melts the snow on the roof during the day. Water seeps under the shingles. At night, it freezes. The cycle repeats.

A new asphalt shingle holds up well. But after 10-15 years of exposure, it becomes vulnerable. The granules detach, the bitumen loses its flexibility. At this stage, freeze-thaw cycles accelerate the degradation.

If you have asphalt shingles and your attic is well-ventilated, you'll get 20-25 years of life. But it's not a miracle material against freeze-thaw cycles, metal is.

«A metal roof is too noisy.»

That was true 30 years ago. It's less true today.

The old sheet metal roofs, installed directly on the rafters without insulation, did indeed make noise during rain or hail. But that wasn't the standard for houses; it was for barns and sheds.

Today, a modern residential metal roof is installed on a membrane, with insulation and often decking underneath. All of these materials absorb sound.

You will hear a slight noise during heavy rain or hail, but it's really not bothersome. Honestly, it's barely louder than an asphalt roof.

And many owners even like the sound of rain on metal. It adds a little cottage, country feel.

If noise is really a concern for you, we can add an extra layer of soundproofing. But in 95% of cases, it’s not necessary.

«Asphalt is always cheaper»

It depends on your time horizon.

If you just compare the initial cost, yes, asphalt is cheaper. About 2 to 3 times cheaper than metal.

But if you calculate the total cost over 30-50 years, metal is often more economical.

Here’s a simple example: You pay 15,000 $ for an asphalt roof in 2025. It lasts 20 years. In 2045, you replace it for 20,000 $ (inflation). Total cost: 35,000 $.

Or you pay 35,000 $ for a metal roof in 2025. It lasts 50 years. Total cost: 35,000 $.

Same cost, but with metal, you do it once. With asphalt, you live through two complete renovation projects.

And I'm not even counting the energy savings that metal can generate in the summer with its reflective power.

So no, asphalt isn't always cheaper. It depends on how long you stay in your house.

RBQ standards and building codes to know in Longueuil

In Quebec, redoing a roof isn't just about materials. It's governed by strict standards for your safety.

The Régie du bâtiment du Québec (RBQ) oversees all construction and major renovation work. If you hire a contractor to redo your roof, they must have a valid RBQ license.

At Cartago Construction, we are RBQ certified. This means we know and respect all current standards.

The 2020 National Building Code (NBC), with Quebec amendments coming into effect in April 2025, imposes enhanced requirements on several aspects:

• Attic Ventilation: Minimum ventilation ratio relative to roof area. High ventilation (ridge or roof vents) and low ventilation (soffits) to create continuous airflow.
• Insulation : Minimum R-value of R-40 for unfinished attics in the Longueuil region. If your current insulation is below this, you must upgrade it when replacing the roof.
• Fire safety : Roofing materials must meet fire resistance standards, especially in densely populated urban areas.
• Energy efficiency : New standards encourage the use of reflective materials to reduce urban heat islands.

There is a transition period until October 2026 to allow businesses to adjust. However, in practice, all new projects must already comply with these standards.

If your contractor tells you they can do the job without a permit or that they don't follow standards to save money, run away. You're going to have inspection, warranty, and insurance problems.

The Quebec Association of Building and Housing Professionals (APCHQ) also offers warranty programs for roofing work. If your contractor is a member, you have additional protection.

Need advice on regulations and permits? Talk to an RBQ certified contractor in Longueuil,we take care of all the administrative procedures for you.

How to choose the best roofing for YOUR home

There is no universal answer. The best choice for you depends on your home, your budget, and your priorities.

Here's how to approach the decision intelligently.

Type of house (bungalow, cottage)

If you have a typical Longueuil bungalow, with a simple gable roof, asphalt and metal are both good options.

Asphalt is more affordable if you are on a limited budget. Metal makes sense if you plan to stay for a long time.

If you have a cottage or a house with multiple slopes, dormers, complex intersections, asphalt is sometimes easier to install and cheaper. Metal on a complex roof can be very expensive due to the extra labor.

For a house with a flat roof or a flat section (extension, integrated garage), you need membranes. Elastomer or TPO are your only realistic options.

Detention horizon (5-10 years vs 30+ years)

Planning to sell in 5-10 years? Quality asphalt makes sense. It refreshes your home's appearance, reassures potential buyers, and you'll recover a good portion of your investment upon resale.

Are you set up for 20-30 years or more? Metal becomes much more interesting. You pay once, you forget about it, and you save in the long run.

Between the two? It depends on your risk tolerance. If you sell in 15 years, you might not get back the full price difference of the metal. But you'll live peacefully for those 15 years without worrying about leaks.

Priority: budget, maintenance or durability

• Tight budget: The asphalt is of average to good quality. Allow for 8–12 square feet per $. Choose a certified contractor who installs it properly with adequate ventilation.
• Zero maintenance: Metal. You visually inspect every 5 years to check that the bolts are tight and the flashing is intact. That's it.
• Sustainability and ROI: Metal or premium asphalt depending on your time horizon. Calculate the total cost over 30-50 years.
• Aesthetics Asphalt offers more color and texture choices in the short term. But modern metal now comes in several styles that mimic slate, wood, or traditional shingles.

Need help deciding? Request a free consultation, we'll appraise your home, discuss your priorities, and guide you toward the right choice. No pressure, just honest advice.

Why entrust your roofing project to Cartago Construction

Choosing the right material is one thing. Finding a reliable contractor who will install it correctly is another.

And that's where many homeowners get taken advantage of. They choose the right material, but the installation is sloppy. Poor ventilation, incorrect nailing, poorly installed flashing. The result: leaks, voided warranties, wasted money.

At Cartago Construction, we do things differently.

Local expertise and understanding of the Quebec climate

Yassine, the founder, has over 10 years of experience in residential construction in Quebec. He has seen all types of roofs, all situations, all problems.

He knows the specific challenges of Longueuil's and Montreal's South Shore climate. Ice dams on bungalows. Ventilation problems in houses from the 70s. Leaks around chimney flashing.

We don't use techniques imported from the United States. We use methods that work here, in our climate, with our standards.

This means: adequate ventilation to prevent ice dams, protection membrane installed according to Quebec standards, flashing installed to withstand freeze-thaw cycles.

We train our subcontractors. We inspect every step. Because a roof is only as good as its installation.

Adherence to RBQ standards and 2025 codes

We are RBQ certified. We follow the standards of the National Building Code and the Quebec amendments of 2025.

This means we will take care of the necessary permits. We will comply with ventilation requirements. We will verify that your insulation meets standards. We will install the materials according to the manufacturer's specifications.

If a problem is discovered during the inspection, such as insufficient insulation, rot in the joists, or inadequate ventilation, we will inform you before we begin. We will explain what needs to be corrected and why.

No surprises. No shoddy work. Just work done by the book.

Human approach and turnkey coordination

You don't have time to manage multiple contractors. You want a team that handles everything, from start to finish.

It's our specialty. We coordinate the initial inspection, material ordering, equipment rental, installation, and final cleaning.

You have a single point of contact: us. A single number to call. A single company responsible.

And we respect our deadlines. A standard residential roof generally takes 2 to 5 days to install, depending on complexity. We give you a realistic timeline and stick to it.

During the work, we protect your land. We clean up debris every evening. We respect your property as if it were our own.

Ready to redo your roof? Get your free estimate in Longueuil,Call us at 438-932-4326 or visit cartagoconstruction.ca. We'll inspect your roof, discuss your options, and give you a fair price, no obligation.

FAQ: Roofing and Climate in Longueuil

Here are the questions we are asked most often. If you don't find your answer here, call us, and we'll be happy to clarify.

Which roofing lasts the longest in Quebec?

Metal, without hesitation. A well-installed metal roof lasts between 40 and 70 years, sometimes more. Asphalt lasts 15 to 25 years on average in our climate. Membranes last 20 to 30 years depending on the type.

Is asphalt suitable for harsh winters?

Yes, but with limitations. Quality asphalt holds up well if your attic is well-ventilated and the installation is done correctly. However, freeze-thaw cycles accelerate its aging. After 15-20 years, it needs to be monitored closely.

Is a metal roof really worth it?

In the long term, yes. If you plan to stay in your home for 20 years or more, metal often costs less than redoing asphalt twice. The initial cost is higher, but you save on future replacements, maintenance, and sometimes on your air conditioning costs.

Can you redo a roof in winter?

Technically yes, but it's not recommended. Below -5 °C to -10 °C, asphalt shingles become brittle and difficult to handle. Sealants adhere poorly. The ideal window is April to October in Longueuil. If it's urgent in winter, it can be done with special precautions, but it costs more.

What is the importance of ventilation?

Enormous. Poor ventilation will kill an asphalt roof in 10-15 years instead of 25 years. It creates ice dams in the winter and causes the roof to overheat in the summer. If you're redoing your roof, get the ventilation checked at the same time; it's non-negotiable.

Metal or asphalt for a bungalow?

It depends on your budget and your plans. If your budget is limited and you're selling in 10 years, asphalt is fine. If you're staying for 25-30 years and want peace of mind, metal is a better investment. Both work well on a bungalow.

Which Quebec brands should I prioritize?

For asphalt: BP, IKO, and GAF are solid choices. For metal: Vicwest and Englert have good products suited for Quebec's climate. Maibec also offers quality metal systems. Always ask to see the manufacturer's written warranties.

Choosing the right roofing for your home in Longueuil is a significant investment. Asphalt is economical in the short term. Metal offers maximum durability in the long term. Both can work depending on your situation.

But no matter what material you choose, installation makes all the difference. A poorly installed roof with inadequate ventilation will cause you problems, no matter if it's premium asphalt or high-end metal.

At Cartago Construction, we have the local experience, RBQ certifications, and a turnkey approach that ensures your project goes smoothly. No stress, no surprises, just professional work.

Have a roofing project in Longueuil or on the South Shore? Contact us today for a free estimate., 438-932-4326 or info@cartagoconstruction.ca. We will help you make the right decision for your home and your budget.