Complete Roofing Components for Integrated Protection

Your roof is a system where every component works together. We install and service all roofing components: decking, underlayment, flashing, vents, skylights, ice shields, and more. Integrated systems that protect Ottawa homes.

/ System Overview

Every Component Matters

Many homeowners think of their roof as just the shingles. In reality, your roof is an integrated system where each component plays a critical role. When components work together properly, your home stays dry and protected for decades.

The Complete Roofing System

Layer Function
Roof Decking Structural base for entire system
Underlayment Secondary moisture barrier
Ice & Water Shield Extra protection at eaves and valleys
Flashing Directs water around penetrations
Roof Vents Exhausts moisture from attic
Drip Edge Guides water to gutters properly
Primary Roofing Sheds water from above
Roofing System Diagram
/ Component Categories

The Components We Install & Service

Structural Foundation

Roof Decking: The structural base layer that supports entire roof system and home structure

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Water Management

Ventilation & Air Flow

Water Direction

Drip Edge: Guides water from roof edge to gutters

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Light & Aesthetics

Skylights: Natural light with professional waterproofing

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Special Roofing

Roof Decking: Structural support and specialty options

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/ Component Integration

How Components Work Together

Proper integration of all components ensures your roof system performs optimally for decades.

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The Roof Deck Provides the Base

Your roof deck (typically plywood or OSB) is the structural foundation. It must be properly ventilated and protected from moisture. Poor deck leads to structural failure of entire roof.

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Underlayment is Your Backup

If shingles leak (which they will eventually), underlayment is your second line of defense. Without it, water goes directly into your attic.

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Ice & Water Shield Prevents Winter Damage

Ottawa's freeze-thaw cycles create ice dams. Water backs up under shingles at the eaves. Ice & water shield catches this water and directs it down and out, preventing interior damage.

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Flashing Protects Vulnerable Points

Anywhere pipes, vents, or chimneys go through your roof, water can get in if flashing is improper. Proper flashing is critical at these penetration points.

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Vents Keep Attic Dry

Your attic needs both intake ventilation (through soffit vents) and exhaust ventilation (through roof vents). Proper ventilation prevents ice dams, removes moisture that causes mold, extends roof life, and improves energy efficiency.

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Drip Edge Guides Water

Water running down your shingles needs to go into gutters, not behind them. Drip edge ensures this happens.

/ Ottawa Climate Demands

Why Component Integration is Critical for Ottawa

Ottawa's harsh climate demands proper component integration for reliable roof protection.

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Ice Dam Threat

Ottawa's temperature swings and heavy snow create ice dam conditions. Without proper component integration, ice dams cause interior water damage every winter.

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Freeze-Thaw Cycles

Water enters the smallest cracks and expands when frozen. This accelerates damage. Proper underlayment and ice shields catch water before it can do damage.

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Heavy Snow Load

Ottawa snow can exceed 200 pounds per square foot. Your roof deck must be properly sized and supported. Poor decking under heavy snow causes structural failure.

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Extreme Temperature Swings

Materials expand and contract dramatically from -30°C to +30°C. Flashing, drip edge, and vent installations must allow for this movement.

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Long Winter, Short Summer

You need roof ventilation working year-round. Vents help in winter (prevents ice dams) and summer (exhausts heat from attic).

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Moisture Challenges

Summer humidity and spring melt create moisture that accumulates in attic if ventilation is inadequate. Proper venting and underlayment prevent this.

/ Component Lifespans

When Each Component Needs Attention

Component Lifespan Signs of Failure
Roof Decking 20-60 years Soft spots, water stains, visible rot
Underlayment 20-50 years Water leaking through, visible deterioration
Ice & Water Shield 20-30 years Ice dam water entering interior
Flashing 20-40 years Water leaking around vents/chimneys/skylights
Roof Vents 20-30 years Visible deterioration, not drawing air
Drip Edge 20-40 years Water running behind gutters, deterioration
Asphalt Shingles 15-25 years Missing shingles, curling, granule loss
/ Issues We Fix

Common Component Problems We Address

Leaking Flashing

Cause: Sealant failure, corrosion, improper installation

Solution: Resealing or replacement of flashing

Ice Dam Water Damage

Cause: Inadequate ice shield, poor ventilation

Solution: Upgrade ice shield, improve ventilation

Non-Functional Vents

Cause: Poor installation, age, wrong location

Solution: Verify location and airflow, replace if needed

Water Behind Gutters

Cause: Missing drip edge, improper installation

Solution: Install drip edge, verify gutter alignment

Attic Mold

Cause: Poor ventilation, moisture accumulation

Solution: Improve ventilation, remove mold, address moisture

Deteriorated Underlayment

Cause: Age, water exposure, poor ventilation

Solution: Replace with quality underlayment when re-roofing

/ Why Choose Us

Why Choose Burnham Brothers for Roofing Components

Expert component installation and service with 35 years of Ottawa experience.

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35 Years of Experience

We've installed and serviced roofing components on thousands of Ottawa homes. We understand our climate and what components are needed for success.

BP Platinum Installer

Factory training from BP Canada ensures expert-level knowledge of proper component installation and integration.

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System Integration Approach

We don't just install individual components—we design integrated systems where components work together properly.

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Climate-Appropriate Choices

We select components specifically chosen for Ottawa's harsh climate. Ice shields, proper ventilation, quality underlayment—we get it right.

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Professional Installation

Proper installation is more important than component choice. We install everything to manufacturer specifications and best practices.

Comprehensive Services

Installation, maintenance, repair, replacement—we handle all component needs.

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Licensed & Insured

Full insurance coverage and proper licensing protect you and your investment.

Complete Roofing Component Solutions

Whether you need new installation, maintenance, or repair of any roofing component, we're here to help. Proper components protect your home for decades. Serving Ottawa for 35 years.

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