Roofing in Burnaby: What Homeowners Need to Know
Last updated: February 2026
Burnaby's diverse housingâfrom post-war bungalows to modern Brentwood towersâcreates varied roofing needs across the city. As Metro Vancouver's third-largest municipality, Burnaby sees significant roofing activity, particularly as 1970s-80s era homes reach roof replacement age. This guide covers what Burnaby homeowners need to know about roofing costs, neighbourhood considerations, and finding reliable contractors for the city's mixed housing stock.
Understanding Burnaby's Housing Stock
Burnaby's development patterns create distinct roofing challenges by neighbourhood. The city expanded rapidly post-WWII, creating large areas of similar-aged homes now requiring roof replacement simultaneously. Understanding your home's era helps anticipate roofing needs and costs.
Annual rainfall in Burnaby averages 1,200-1,400mmâslightly higher than Vancouver proper due to slight elevation increase moving east. Higher areas like Capitol Hill and Burnaby Mountain see heavier precipitation. The city's extensive tree coverage, while beautiful, promotes aggressive moss growth requiring regular maintenance.
Roofing by Burnaby Neighbourhood
North Burnaby (Heights, Capitol Hill)
Mix of character homes and heritage properties around Deer Lake Park, plus 1960s-70s homes on Capitol Hill. Heritage Character Area around Deer Lake may influence material choicesâperiod-appropriate materials preferred. Moderate to higher elevation brings increased rainfall. Active roofing replacement market as aging stock needs updates.
Brentwood & Lougheed
Rapid transformation with high-rise condos and new townhome developments. Strata-managed buildings handle roofing through councilsâindividual owners rarely involved in decisions. Remaining single-family homes are often redevelopment candidates. Newer builds have modern roofing with decades of remaining life.
Metrotown & Central Park
Mix of older single-family homes and dense condo/townhome developments. Similar transition pattern to Brentwood. Remaining houses often have 1970s-80s roofing approaching end-of-life. Strong roofing contractor demand from aging inventory. Good road access for equipment and materials.
South Burnaby (Edmonds, Stride Avenue)
Predominantly post-war single-family neighbourhoods with straightforward bungalows. Simple gable roof designs mean efficient, moderate-cost replacements. Some of the most affordable roofing work in Metro Vancouver due to simple roof geometry. Many homes have original 1950s-60s structures with various roofing layers.
Burnaby Mountain & SFU Area
UniverCity and surrounding developments feature newer construction with modern roofing. Higher elevation means increased rainfallâup to 1,600mm annually. Dense tree coverage requires vigilant moss management. Mix of strata townhomes and single-family. Relatively new housing stock with years of roof life remaining.
Multi-Layer Roof Situations
Many older Burnaby homes have had shingles installed over previous layers rather than full tear-offs. While sometimes acceptable in the past, current best practice and most manufacturers require removal to deck level for warranty validity. Signs of multiple layers include:
- Uneven or wavy roof surface appearance
- Excess weight visible in sagging
- Different shingle types visible at edges
- Previous homeowner mentioned "re-roofing" vs. replacement
Full tear-off adds $1,500-$3,000 to project cost but ensures proper inspection of deck, fresh underlayment, and valid warranty. Most Burnaby roofing contractors recommend and perform tear-offs.
Nearby Communities
Burnaby borders several Metro Vancouver communities:
- Vancouver â similar climate, slightly higher costs on West Side
- New Westminster â heritage focus, similar pricing
- Coquitlam â eastward, similar pricing tiers
Our Recommended Roofer for Burnaby
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
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does roof replacement cost in Burnaby?
Roof replacement in Burnaby costs $10,000-$25,000 for most single-family homesâclose to Metro Vancouver average. Post-war bungalows with simple roof lines fall at the lower end ($10,000-$15,000). Larger split-levels and modern builds with complex designs reach $18,000-$25,000. The Burnaby Heights and Capitol Hill heritage areas may add costs for character-appropriate materials. Strata townhomes share costs among units.
What are common roof types in Burnaby neighbourhoods?
Burnaby's diverse housing stock means varied roofing needs. Post-war areas (Edmonds, Stride Avenue) have simple gable roofs on bungalowsâstraightforward replacements. 1970s-80s homes (North Burnaby, Burnaby Lake) often feature complex split-levels. Newer developments (Brentwood, Metrotown) include townhomes with strata-managed roofing. Deer Lake and Capitol Hill heritage areas may require character-appropriate roofing.
Does Burnaby require permits for roof replacement?
Yes, the City of Burnaby requires building permits for full roof replacement and structural work. Permits cost approximately $150-$250. Processing typically takes 1-2 weeks. Reputable contractors handle permit applications. For homes in Heritage Character Areas like Deer Lake, additional review may be required to ensure character preservation.
What roofing challenges are specific to Burnaby?
Burnaby shares Metro Vancouver's wet climate challenges: heavy rainfall, moss growth, and moisture management. Higher elevation areas (Burnaby Mountain, Capitol Hill) see heavier rain. Many 1970s-80s roofs are reaching end-of-life, driving active replacement demand. Tree coverage throughout the city accelerates moss buildup. Multiple roof layer situations are common on older homes.