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Your roof has a pretty important job to do. It’s your first line of defense against the elements and critical to the overall integrity of your home. But, the weather is your roof’s most powerful nemesis. From snowstorms to high winds to hail, storms can be incredibly...

Once the harshness of the winter months has passed, you may think your roof is finally able to rest easy. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. Roofs in spring can bring some serious roofing issues you must look out for as a homeowner to prevent worse problems...

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT SOFFIT AND FASCIA When it comes to the parts of a roof, eaves, shingles, and chimneys get all the glory. Most people know what they’re for and what they look like. But there are many other less familiar components with names that may sound...

When you hire a roofing contractor, you’re really making an investment in your biggest asset: your home. It’s important to do your homework before you make a roofing investment. The best thing you can do is interview your potential contractor before you hire him....

Winter in Thunder Bay can be breathtakingly beautiful, but it also brings some challenges for homeowners. One common issue many residents face during the colder months is ice dams on their roofs. In this article, we'll discuss the problems ice dams can cause, how to...

When it comes to protecting your home, few things matter more than a solid roof and a space that feels truly yours. At Dykstra Knight Roofing and Renovations, we believe your home should be a reflection of your comfort, your style, and your peace of mind. Built on...

A properly ventilated roof is one of the most effective ways to create a comfortable indoor environment, reduce energy costs, and extend the lifespan of your roofing system. Whether you’re considering roof repairs or a full roof replacement, ventilation is a key...

No matter where you live in Canada, chances are you’ve encountered your share of rough weather over the years. Types of Roof Storm Damage Wind Hurricane-force winds, which are classified by meteorologists as 74 mph or greater, or gale-force winds, which are between...

When it comes to protecting your property, your roof is the first line of defense—and hiring the right contractor can make all the difference. Whether you’re a homeowner or a property manager, working with a certified and insured roofing company ensures your...

As the winter season settles in, snow-covered roofs can become a picturesque sight. However, for many homeowners, they can also signal the potential for ice dams—an issue that can lead to significant damage if not addressed. At Dykstra Knight Roofing & Renovations,...

Accidents happen, so it’s best to make sure that you’ve invested in the proper coverage. When deciding on the type of asphalt shingles for your roof, home owners are presented with many different options from roof shingle manufacturers, including the type of roof...

Persistent leaks in your flat roof indicate a failure in the waterproofing system, necessitating immediate attention to prevent structural damage. Maintenance neglect often exacerbates this issue, reducing the efficacy of waterproofing options. Effective leak...

Enhancing your home’s curb appeal is multifaceted, where even the smallest details can make a significant difference. A prime example is the choice of soffit and fascia materials, which might seem minor but play a crucial role in aesthetics and functionality. Soffit...

Understanding the Risks of Neglecting Your Roof Replacement Homeownership brings its share of responsibilities and ignoring minor problems can sometimes lead to unfortunate complications. Nowhere is this more evident than in a delayed roof replacement. If you’ve...

If you have ever required roof repairs from Dykstra Knight, you might have heard the term “flashing”. But just what does this mean? Flashing is part of the waterproofing system of your rooftop. It is usually made from either metal or a rubber membrane and is the...

When it comes to preserving the integrity of your house, one aspect that should never be overlooked is the condition of your roof. Having a strong and well-maintained roof is essential to protect your property from the harsh effects of the weather. However, many...

A roof drip edge is a metal flashing that plays a crucial role in protecting your property from damage by preventing water from seeping under the shingles and into the roof decking. Despite its importance, some homeowners and contractors may question whether it’s...

Winter in Ontario is often unpredictable, bringing a blanket of snow one day and a sheet of rain the next. This variability can cause unique challenges for roofs and the homeowners looking after them. Keep reading to learn the five problems you need to watch for this...

When it comes to your home in Thunder Bay, roofing and siding play a crucial role in protecting it from the elements and maintaining its curb appeal. In this article, we'll answer important questions about roofing and siding, including when to replace them and the...

If you own or manage a commercial property, you know that there are regular maintenance routines you need to complete to ensure your property is operating efficiently and effectively. Your commercial roof is no different. The best way to protect your investment in...

Your home is safe because you have a roof at the top. It is obvious that anyone will love to live in a home that is safe and sound and for that maintenance of a roof is a must. Most people think that roof is quite hard and impervious, but it is not as you think. The...

Should you insulate your attic roof? Insulation is a wise choice to increase the energy efficiency of your home. Quality insulation will make it more cost-effective to heat and cool your home, The Department of Energy’s estimates range from a 10% to 50% savings,...

Roof fires can be a serious threat to the health and safety of your family and to the structure of your home. They often start without warning, as most attics are unfinished and not equipped with a smoke detector. The roofers at Dykstra Knight want to make sure that...

School is in full swing and summer is now over. The good news is that fall is here! While the autumn is one of the most beautiful times of the year, it’s also a sign for what is to come. There are a few things you should do to your roof before the serious winter...

The roof of a property should be regularly maintained to prolong its life and ensure water doesn’t leak through. A thorough roof inspection should be scheduled twice a year – once in late spring, and once during the fall. Here are key roof maintenance tasks to do this...

As any commercial building owner knows, a roof is a crucial part of the structure. Not only does it provide protection from the elements, but it also helps to regulate temperature and prevent moisture damage. However, roofs can also be subject to wear and tear over...

Regular roof maintenance is a critical aspect of owning a business that often goes overlooked, yet its significance cannot be understated. A well-maintained roof protects your business from the elements and ensures your safety and comfort. From preventing costly...

A roof shingle repair is an indicator of problems that are occurring on the roof. A roof shingle repair in Thunder Bay demonstrates to a property owner that a roof shingle replacement cost will be associated with any work needed to correct the problem. A roof shingle...

Everyone's heard of Skylights, but there are also sky windows and roof window products which are becoming more popular. What is the difference between the three? Skylights, sky windows, and roof windows are all installed in the roof of a home or other building. They...

Wood Shakes/Shingles First, wood roof systems can comprise either shakes or shingles. Generally, dimensions for wood shakes and shingles run from a half-inch to an inch thick at the exposed, or butt, end; from three to eight inches wide; and from 18 to 24 inches long....

The cost of replacing or repairing a roof is an expense most of us can ill afford. Luckily, by spending a few hours periodically to carry out scheduled maintenance, you can actually catch roof problems and solve them before they spiral out of control. Below are seven...

It is with a collective sigh of relief that Canadians tend to welcome the arrival of spring. Saying goodbye to snow and ice after the winter months, and the return of milder weather always feels like everything comes back to life. Just as spring brings with it the...

Over time, some problems with your roof can be almost inevitable, which is why regular maintenance is so important to mitigate the risks. Unexpected damage to your roof can wreak havoc on your home if not addressed promptly, yet the problem is that you might not...

It’s important to know and understand the predicted lifespan for your roof. Nothing is built to last forever, no matter how high in quality and workmanship it may be, and your roof is no exception to this rule. Our professional roofers at Dykstra Knight can advise you...

One question which all roofing companies hear from time to time is, “Can I build over my existing roof?” Re-roofing over an existing roof is a somewhat controversial topic and there are varying opinions about whether it is a suitable thing to do or not. The answer is...

Below, we’ve compiled the five best roofing materials for anyone living in extreme weather.   1. Fiberglass Asphalt Shingles Asphalt is the most popular roofing material on the market because it is inexpensive. Fiberglass asphalt shingles are made with fiberglass mat...

Though most roofs are meant to last a decades or more, some maintenance may be needed along they way. Here are some steps to maintain and keep your roof in good shape.   Don’t procrastinate replacing your shingles. Replacing or repairing your roof as problems arise...

The last thing folks want to think about during the cold winter months is roof repairs, but sometimes there’s little choice. Luckily roofing during a Thunder Bay winter isn’t the abominable snow beast you might think it is – usually, it just takes some extra planning...

Can You Replace A Roof In The Winter? Experts say the best time to construct a roof is when weather is “warm, calm, and dry.” That is, in warm temperatures, with little wind and clear skies. In a perfect world, that would be every day. But in most northern states and...

Remember to Remove Snow Build-Up to Prevent Winter Damage Roofs are designed to handle the elements. Snow, rain, and debris commonly collect on your roof, especially in flatter areas. But, this doesn’t mean that snow buildup won’t become a problem. The best way to...

One question that we commonly get asked is whether it is possible to get a roof installed in the winter. This is not an entirely simple question to answer… In some parts of the world, the timing of roof installation doesn’t matter too much – any season will work. This...

Homeowner Question: Do you think asphalt shingles are a good roofing design choice as compared to other roofing options on the market? Dyksta Knight’s Answer: In our opinion, asphalt roof shingles – especially architectural shingles – are a great design choice for the...

Halloween is just around the corner so it’s time to prepare your home for the neighborhood’s little ghosts and goblins. Before those trick-or-treat-ers reach your home there are a few steps you can take to ensure everyone has a worry-free, safe Halloween. Planning to...

Rain, fierce winds and even wildfires have caused major roof damage in many communities across North America. As a homeowner, here’s what to do if your home has been damaged in a storm. Personal Safety First: Make sure all family members and pets are safe and...

With the start of summer and a focus on improvement projects that homeowners can tackle while sheltering in place due to COVID-19, now is a great time to consider exterior maintenance and care that will not only help improve curb appeal, but protect your home for the...

Getting a brand new roof can be an exciting experience. Kids and pets may watch in awe as they observe roofers ripping, tearing, hauling, and nailing, they may even want to sneak as close as possible to the action. That, of course is extremely dangerous. Once the...

A chimney pipe is a metal tube used as a means of ventilation. They are necessary with indoor appliances that use some form of combustion to produce heat, whether it is the burning of wood, gas, oil or coal. Appliances that have chimney pipes as one of their...

Many different factors can cause a flat roof repair, but one constant is a water leak that causes a roof leak repair is where the problems begin. If you need a roof leak repair in Thunder Bay, a roof repair in Thunder Bay, or a flat roof repair in Thunder Bay, the...

At Dykstra Knight, we recommend that homeowners have their roof inspected on a regular basis. It’s like going to the doctor for an annual check-up. You may catch potential problems early and potentially prevent them from becoming more serious. While we recognize that...

One tradition many people partake in each year for Canada Day is shooting off fireworks! While fireworks can provide great enjoyment, they also bring an increased risk of damage to your roof. Quality roofing material is treated to be fire resistant, but some...

The material that connects your roof overhang and the side of your building is the soffit. A soffit can be found anywhere there is a visible sealing. Commonly, it’s made of vinyl and aluminum. What Does the Soffit Do? Specific to your home’s exterior, it is both a...

As we are in the full swing of summer you may notice issues arising with your roof. Summer storms bring hail damage, high winds and heavy rainfall. Here’s some tips to keep your roof in top notch condition during the summer months to prevent or solve problems. If you...

Your roofing system needs balanced attic ventilation to perform at its best. When you’re replacing your roof, ask your contractor about ventilation options for your roof and attic. They should offer several ventilation products for you to consider, ensuring you have a...

A roofing system is complex, and it takes a number of systems to keep a home protected from the weather. Regular maintenance of the roof is essential, eventualities will always cause problems, and a soffit installation can be one a homeowner faces. A soffits repair...

A commercial roofing company is your best bet for a roof leak repair – no DIY solutions need to apply. Your roof is vital to your business and tenants. Commercial roofing in Thunder Bay should be the solution to any roof leak problem you are experiencing. Tiny holes...

As a homeowner, you have chores to service and gutter cleaning is one that isn’t top of mind, though it should be. When your gutters are impacted by debris, eavestrough cleaning is the way to keep the gutters open and water flowing to its desired destination. There...

When weather extremes hit, whether in summer or winter months, increased energy costs are inevitable. Extended use of heating and cooling systems easily equate to more dollar signs for a homeowner. While there are many ways to reduce energy costs in your home,...

Asphalt shingles are the most common material used in residential roofing today. There are many reasons behind the popularity of shingle roofing, from ease of installation to low material cost. While considering asphalt shingles for your next roofing replacement...

The commercial roofing industry is one of the most competitive industries in our economy. As part of an array of services that commercial roofing contractors in Thunder Bay provide is a commercial roof inspection. When you notice your commercial roofing system is...

If you want a healthy roofing system, an eavestrough cleaning is one important job that a homeowner can perform. Your eavestrough is the water management system for your home. Gutter cleaning ensures that it operates at peak efficiency, directing water away from your...

With the snowy weather in Thunder Bay, many Canadian homeowners have started to worry about how this year’s winter will affect their roof. Last year, many Canadians reported damage to their roofs due to heavy snowfall and ice dams covering their rooftops. And apart...

Winter weather is especially hard on your roof. The snow and ice and the freezing and thawing can create several problems that may lead to costly roofing repairs if not adequately addressed. Here are six common problems your roof may face over the winter season....

Disclaimer: Do not attempt to hang Christmas lights when snow or ice is visible on the ground or on the roof, or during wet weather conditions. It is incumbent upon the homeowner, to follow all building codes and safety codes, and to ensure their own safety. It is...

There will come a time when a roof repair in Thunder Bay is an absolute necessity. Roof repairs can be a costly expense if you let them linger, so getting out front of the problem upon discovery is the best way to solve the problem in its infancy. Let’s look at the...

PLANNING TO DECORATE YOUR ROOF THIS HALLOWEEN? IF SO, YOU NEED TO BE CAREFUL ABOUT HOW YOU APPROACH THE PROJECT. ROOF DECORATING INJURIES ARE COMMON AROUND HALLOWEEN AND CHRISTMAS, AND MOST OF THEM CAN BE AVOIDED WITH SOME SIMPLE PRECAUTIONS.   ALWAYS WORK WITH A...

Temperatures are cooling off and that means football, pumpkin lattes, and long weekends spent nestled indoors relaxing. Not so fast. As the first leaves of autumn begin to fall, you’ll need to plan ahead for roof maintenance before the blustery winter winds and storms...

It is an age-old question and should be considered carefully when you are trying to decide how to refurbish your aluminum siding. Aluminum has been a solid choice for window capping since the 1940s and stood up to the weather and climate robustly. It is better than...

When we think of window capping or garage door capping, the first material that comes to mind is aluminum capping to do the job. But let’s remember a few things about capping windows and garages. The material will affect the appearance, and capping trim is available...

Sometimes a roof can naturally reach the end of its useful life without experiencing a roof failure. It just looks old and worn, and you are doing preventive maintenance on your home. If replacing an old roof is delayed, however, it could result in bigger problems...

Homeowner Question: Since I’m not an expert in roofing, how much should I rely on my roofing contractor to help pick the colour for my roof?  Our Answer: Your roofing contractor plays a very important role in your roof replacement project. He or she is clearly the...

When it comes time to replace your flat roof, there are a number of different factors to consider. It is important to understand each factor before diving into the roof replacement to help ensure that the roof you choose is right for your needs, and for the building,...

If your attic is poorly insulated, there are a lot of problems that can arise – expensive ones too. This article is to help homeowners become more aware of the insulation in their homes. Is it doing the job it should be? Let’s find out. Here are some things to look...

What is Felt Paper? Felt paper is a type of underlayment used for roofing. Underlayment is a protective second layer installed between the roof deck and the shingles. It helps to seal the roof against leaks, resulting in a roof that is stronger overall and lasts...

Almost half of the heat loss in a home occurs through the attic. Keeping your home warm in winter is critical in places like Thunder Bay, Ontario, and it can be expensive. Inadequate insulation makes it more so! Installing proper insulation is one of the most...

One thing a lot of people don’t have at the forefront of their minds at this time is the roof. Yet as any expert at Dykstra Knight will tell you, the roof is of paramount importance when considering buying a home… It’s not just the appearance of the roof that’s...

How to Handle a Roofing Emergency We all know the signs of a thunderstorm: the sky turns gray and ominous, sunlight gets choked out by the thick blanket of clouds in the sky. The tell-tale sounds of the storm become closer each minute. The wind picks up and the...

If you have a low-to-ground exit at the rear of your home, chances are that you have an old ground-level deck hovering over your rear property. Popular for decades, these decks were the norm for creating an outdoor living space. When it’s time to replace, however, you...

You might be thinking about adding a nice outdoor space to your home. Maybe a space for relaxing, or holding parties, or doing yoga. Adding a deck or patio can expand your living space in stylish and practical ways. Decks vs patios What’s the difference between a deck...

When designing a custom deck or patio for your home, there are a number of shade structure you can include that will create the perfect way to enjoy your outdoor space even if the weather conditions are less than appealing. Deck and patio shade structures like roofs,...

Deck Permits and setbacks: The first step of building a deck in Canada or North America should be staying on the right side of the law. Find out where exactly your property line is so you know you meet the necessary setbacks. Depending on how meticulous your...

Your roof is one of the first lines of defense against inclement weather and the safety and comfort it provides for your loved ones shouldn’t be taken lightly, especially when it’s put at risk by any of the following five issues. 1.      LEAKS Leaks are tricky because...

You probably feel a little apprehensive towards winter’s first snow fall for a few reasons…shoveling your driveway, navigating snowy roads, and more. However, wintery weather can take quite a toll on your roof if you’re unaware and unprepared, that’s why we put...

Winter is definitely here in Thunder Bay and as you all know, the harsh conditions can cause damage and decrease the longevity of your home’s roof. If your roof needs repairs, it’s generally better to do them in the drier months. In fact, most experts say the best...

As a homeowner, you have many maintenance responsibilities. You are fixing broken windows, reinforcing a retaining wall for the landscaping you love, and gutter cleaning. What? Yes, that’s right, keeping your eavestroughs free of impediments. Your eavestroughs serve...

Comparing commercial roofing to residential roofing is the equivalent of comparing apples and oranges. While the premise for both roofing systems is to keep the elements out, the applications are inherently different, and any commercial roofing company in Thunder Bay...

Have you been standing outside your house contemplating what color you need to pick for your new roof? Maybe spending too much time Googling houses that look like yours? We get it! A new roof is a big investment, and not one that you want to regret. We have a few...

Roofs are arguably the most important feature of any building regardless of whether you are talking about commercial, industrial, or residential buildings.  Roofs offer shelter and protection from inclement weather, but they are also one of the key structural...

Winter has its ice storms and freezing temperatures that shock your home. Spring has its abundance of rain. And fall has its mountain of leaves, wreaking havoc on the gutters. Summer, in general, is supposed to be the season you can lay back and enjoy your home – free...

A leak in your roof can cause serious damage to your home if it's not addressed in a timely manner. Let's face it, everyone hopes they never experience the stress of having a leaky roof, but leaks are more common than you might think. The best way to ease your stress...

Every home needs a good system of roof ventilation, and Dykstra Knight is perfectly trained to advise you and install suitable ventilation for your own unique roof. Roofing ventilation needs to be sufficient for the size of the premises, from a small house to a large...

Contact Dykstra Knight to ensure your roof is in top condition before winter arrives, there are a number of ways you can save energy and hence money on bills this winter. Energy bills tend to rise during the colder months. By following these tips, you will reduce your...

One thing we will always be grateful for is the roof over our head. Despite any of life’s struggles, at the end of the day, we’re pretty lucky to have a roof protecting us from danger, like freezing snow, or basic discomfort, like too much sun. As we start off 2020,...

A roof system is a big investment for homeowners, and may represent a significant portion of construction costs. It’s a roofer’s job to help the homeowner protect his or her investment by conducting thorough, careful maintenance on the roof on a regular basis. This...

Fall is a very important time of year for routine roof maintenance, and whether you call professional roofers (or locally to you), or you have the skills and know-how to undertake some of it yourself, there are certain roof maintenance tasks that need to be completed...

Ice dams can cause major damage to the interior of your home. The best time to do something to prevent this from happening is when you are having your roof done, by properly preparing the roof deck. Ice dams are formed by the constant melting and refreezing of snow on...

Winter has taken a toll on buildings this year, the wild winter weather is prompting concerns about potential structural damage from snow and ice buildup. Although snow and ice can be harmless, it also can create problems for a lot of home owners.   If you have signs...