AskARoofer

Maintaining your asphalt roof all year round

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 06:00:00 PDT

By IKO Industries.

Following a regular roof care routine keeps minor issues from turning into major and costly repairs.

With a clear plan and the right guidance, homeowners can extend the life of their asphalt shingle roofs and prevent small issues from turning into expensive repairs. Consistent seasonal care is one of the most effective ways to safeguard a home from weather damage and everyday wear.

Our team at IKO Industries created this guide to outline practical roof maintenance steps for every season and to explain which tasks are safe for DIY and which should be handled by a licensed professional. From spotting early signs of shingle damage to knowing when to call a contractor, these tips help homeowners stay ahead of roof problems before they escalate.

Seasonal roof maintenance

Regular roof care is key to preventing major issues. We asked Frankie Munoz, CEO at Bee Roofing & Exteriors, about what he’d recommend homeowners do to maintain their roof.

Spring roof maintenance

Spring is the perfect time for a post-winter roof check. Homeowners should visually inspect the roof from the ground to spot:

Missing shingles
Sagging or damaged gutters
Debris buildup
Algae and moss stains
Missing caulking at the flashings
Rusted flashing

Spring roof maintenance is also a perfect time to schedule a professional inspection to assess any hidden or not easily visible damage from winter storms, like missing nails, washed off granules and other signs of damage that are hard to spot.

In the meantime, clean gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage and prevent water damage as spring showers arrive. Also, make sure to check off the general spring home maintenance tasks.

Summer roof maintenance

The focus for summer roof maintenance should be on ventilation and keeping the roof clear of moss and algae. Trim back overhanging tree branches that could drop debris or rub against shingles. Ensure attic spaces are well-ventilated to prevent heat buildup, which can prematurely age your roofing materials.

Fall roof maintenance

Fall home maintenance is all about preparation for the coming winter. Clear leaves and twigs from the roof and gutters at least once during the season or frequently if you have a lot of trees on your property. Inspect flashing and sealants around vents and chimneys to make sure they’re intact before winter arrives.

Fall is also the best time to schedule any necessary repairs and maintenance before freezing conditions set in.

Winter roof maintenance

Focus on prevention during your winter roof maintenance. Watch for ice dams forming along the eaves. Ensure your attic insulation is sufficient to prevent heat loss, which can contribute to ice damming.

No matter the winter home maintenance task, avoid any attempts to climb on the roof in icy or snowy conditions. You can safely remove excess snow on your roof from the ground with a roof rake.

Repairs and maintenance you can DIY

Homeowners can usually handle the most basic roof maintenance tasks, including:

Inspecting roofs from the ground (like looking for sagging gutters or valleys in the roof and missing or damaged shingles).
Cleaning gutters and downspouts.
Trimming nearby tree branches to prevent fallen limbs or animals from landing on your roof.
Monitoring the attic for signs of leaks or moisture.
Using a roof rake from the ground to manage snow buildup during the winter.

How to unclog gutters

Roof gutter maintenance is usually the first task homeowners think of when approaching roof maintenance. While you could get on top of your roof and clean your gutters from that angle, we’d recommend you clean gutters and downspouts from the security of a ladder.

Clear debris: Begin clearing out debris near downspout strainers. Clear out large debris like leaves and twigs by hand. Use a trowel for caked-on debris. Remove and clean out the downspout strainer.
Flush gutters: Use a garden hose to flush out the gutter with water, starting far away from the gutter and moving towards the downspout.
Check downspouts: If water is running quickly out of the downspouts, your job is done. If water is not coming out or is flowing slowly, stick your hose down the spout and spray at full pressure to try to dislodge the blockage. If this doesn’t work, use a plumber’s snake.

DIY shingle maintenance

If you notice discolored or broken shingles on your roof, you may be tempted to take matters into your own hands instead of calling a contractor. This is usually a shingle roof maintenance task reserved for a licensed roofing professional, but there are some DIY methods for handling shingle maintenance.

When to call a professional

Any task that involves climbing on the roof, replacing shingles, repairing flashing, addressing storm damage or sealing penetrations to shingles or the roof deck should always be handled by a licensed professional. This includes maintenance tasks like:

Dealing with mold or rot on shingles or roof deck.
Cleaning moss-covered and discolored shingles.
Replacing roof shingles.
Fixing flashing around chimneys and vents.
Handling structural damage due to storm, tree fall or old age.
Replacing damaged gutters.

Roofing work involves height, tools and technical knowledge that make it unsafe and ineffective for most homeowners to attempt on their own. Many contractors also offer a workmanship guarantee, promising their work will be free of defects related to their labor and installation.

Cleaning shingles

Shingle cleaning can take a lot of different forms depending on what you’re hoping to tidy up.

Take loose debris off of your roof with a leaf blower or a stiff broom. Stuck-on debris, like moss, should be carefully removed by hand or with a soft-bristle brush. Once the moss is removed, apply a moss-killer solution to the affected areas.

Algae stains can be removed with a 50/50 mix of laundry-strength liquid chlorine bleach and water. You can also buy products from home improvement stores that are designed to remove algae and even moss.

Do not use a pressure washer on your asphalt shingle roof — doing so can be too harsh on your shingles’ granules and degrade the lifespan of your roof.

Replacing missing or damaged shingles

Broken, buckled and missing shingles need to be replaced immediately. This is usually a shingle roof maintenance task reserved for a licensed roofing professional. There is a straightforward process they take to replace shingles.

1 - Identify the target shingle

2 - Break the seal from the roof deck and adjacent shingles

3 - Remove the nails and adjacent nails

4 - Remove the shingle and install the new shingle

5 - Nail and seal the shingles to the roof

However, even though the process is simple, IKO recommends that only properly trained professional roofing contractors engage in the shingling and repairs of roofs. An improperly installed shingle can let in moisture and debris that can damage your roofing system. Professionals will know how to install and seal your shingles properly to keep your home happy and protected.

Stay ahead with regular roof maintenance

Staying on top of seasonal roof maintenance isn’t just about curb appeal — it’s about protecting one of your most valuable investments. Armed with these roof maintenance tips, you’re not just preventing problems — you’re building peace of mind, one season at a time.

If you’d like to keep your roof maintenance in capable hands, we can help you find a contractor near you. IKO helps remove the guesswork and guides you towards reliable roofers to ensure you can depend on your roof when you need it most.

Original article and photo source: IKO Industries

Disclaimer: The information provided on AskARoofer.com or information sent by emails is the opinion of the writers. It is the responsibility of the reader to check for accuracy in one's own jurisdiction, as there are different codes and restrictions for different parts of the country. AskARoofer.com does not accept any liability for the use of information on this website or email. AskARoofer.com has no controls over product failures, installation, or climate conditions that may change the roofing process in your area. Our information is in general to our area and cannot be the same as your local town or state. It is advised to seek the local Building Department, Licensed Contractor and local Product Representative for proper installation requirements and code enforcement when installing a new roof.

Roofing made simple

Sun, 22 Feb 2026 06:00:00 PST

By Emma Peterson.

The AskARoofer Minisodes break down key topics like fire-resistant metal, curb appeal and coatings into bite-sized podcast episodes.

Curious about how the roof above your head works? Or maybe needing to get a new roof and not sure what you’re looking for? A great place to start learning is with our AskARoofer (AAR) Minisode series! These podcasts, which are all ten minutes or shorter, are designed to be accessible for home and building owners of all knowledge levels. Each episode features a roofing expert who will share the knowledge and insights they’ve gained over the course of their career.

Topics range from the benefits of different roofing materials to finding the right contractor for your project! Here’s an overview of what our last four Minisodes covered:

1 – Fire resistant metal roofing

In this Minisode, the topic of conversation was fire-resistant roofing. Our crew members Lauren White and Megan Ellsworth sat down with Jeff Haddock, Shaun Page and Richard King from BlueScope to talk about how metal offers a way for homeowners to future-proof their homes.

2 – Roofs and curb appeal

Another recent topic we dove into was curb appeal in relation to roofing. For this Minisode, IKO Industry’s Jack Gottesman and RTM Roofing’s Chad Roland dove into the different design elements related to your roof and how a new roof can change the entire look of your home.

3 – Tech-smart roofers

Finding the right contractor for a roofing project can feel daunting, it’s not a task that comes up frequently in most peoples’ lives. But there are some ways you can narrow down your search and make it easier to find someone you can trust with your home. One such factor to consider is what technology a roofer is using. To learn more about why this matters, Eric Neill and Joe Mischler from Neill and Son Roofing stopped by for an AskARoofer Minisode.

4 – Understanding roof coatings

Last but not least on our list of recent Minisode topics is roof coatings. For this Minisode, Bill Baley from C.I. Services dove into the technical nuances of the roof coating options on the market (such as acrylic, silicone and polyurethane) as well as how climate, roof type and building usage affect what coating is right for your job.

Learn more by listening to the AskARoofer Minisodes on AskARoofer.com, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts and any other streaming service you use for podcasts.

Combine strength and natural aesthetics for the perfect roof

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 06:00:00 PST

By Jenny Yu.

Give your home a calm, durable and timeless feel with IKO's trending shingle colors.

Do you love the outdoors? Well, now you can make your home blend into the natural world with IKO Industries’ trending shingle colors. Their nature-inspired offerings reflect a shift in homeowner taste toward warm, grounded aesthetics of earth, stone, wood and water.

Jack Gottesman, marketing director at IKO North America, noted that homeowners want roofs that complement exterior materials, rather than overpower them. Earthy tones, soft greys and rich blacks are increasingly chosen for their ability to blend seamlessly with stone, brick, clay and wood siding.

Among the top trending colors identified by IKO are wood-toned browns that evoke warmth and stability. Olde Style Weatherwood, available in the Dynasty and Nordic shingle collections, draws inspiration from aged natural wood. Its warm browns and subtle greys pair well with stone facings, neutral siding and bronze or brown trim. Another standout is Dynasty Driftshake, a relaxed shade that brings a breezy, casual feel to homes while complementing light brick, wood accents and soft neutral siding.

Deep black roofing remains a strong choice for projects featuring natural textures. IKO Dynasty Granite Black delivers contrast and visual depth with a four-color blend that enhances stone, brick and masonry exteriors. Black roofs are particularly popular in sunny regions like California, where performance standards are strict. To meet these needs, IKO developed Dynasty Cool Colors Plus Harbor Black, which achieves an SRI of 20-plus while maintaining rich color depth and compliance with California Title 24 requirements.

Grey shingles continue to offer versatility and longevity in residential design. Dynasty Summit Grey provides a dramatic yet balanced tone that pairs well with white or grey exteriors, while Frostone Grey offers a lighter, contemporary option inspired by frosted stone and crisp natural textures.

Choosing a roof color is an opportunity to enhance your home’s character while investing in long-term protection. Nature-inspired shingle shades offer a balance of beauty and performance. With durable options designed to resist wind, impact and harsh weather, homeowners can feel confident their roof will look great for years to come. Exploring IKO’s range of organic, on-trend shingle colors makes it easier to find a solution that fits your style, supports your home’s performance and adds lasting value.

Explore color options that complement your home’s style and environment with IKO’s nature-inspired Dynasty and Nordic performance shingles!

Timing your roof replacement

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 06:00:00 PST

By IKO Industries.

Discover how to plan a roof replacement that works with your budget, schedule and lifestyle.

Deciding the right timing for a roof replacement can be tricky. Weather patterns, family schedules and contractor availability all need to align. While roof emergencies due to severe weather events like storms call for immediate repair, property owners who are tackling routine upgrades have more freedom and flexibility to choose their ideal window.

With some organization, replacing your roof doesn’t have to completely take over your life. Our team at IKO Industries created this guide so you can prepare a smooth, well-timed investment in your property. By understanding seasonal advantages, setting realistic expectations and preparing your home ahead of time, you can turn what may feel like an overwhelming project into an exciting endeavor.

1 - Planning a full home renovation? Consider the timeline of the entire project before booking your roofers.

If you are building an addition to your home or are in the midst of a full home remodel, the best time to replace your roof will depend on the overall scope of the project (as long as none of the various projects are urgent).

For example, if you plan to replace most of the exterior of your home (i.e., doors, windows, siding and your roof), then it is ideal to start with your roof. This will help ensure that your new windows or siding are not damaged while your roof is being replaced.

Whenever you are planning a series of home improvement projects, it is best to speak to a contractor or roofer before confirming start dates.

2 - Plan to replace your roof during a time when you have the resources to get your pets and small children out of the house.

When you are trying to choose the best time to replace your roof, ensuring that you have the resources to get your pets and small children away from the home will be beneficial. If your pets exhibit fear during a thunderstorm, they are more than likely going to be quite scared during a roof replacement.

There is no way for a roofing crew to avoid the inevitable hammering and walking on the roof of your home, so you may want to make arrangements before your roof replacement for them to stay with a friend or sitter.

3 - Choose a time to replace your roof that will not disrupt your work schedule.

Choosing a convenient time to replace your roof depends on several factors: weather conditions, roofer availability and your own schedule.

But, just like small pets and children will be disturbed by the noise when you replace your roof, you likely will be, too, particularly if you work from home! If this is the case, weekends might be an ideal time for a roof replacement (if your roofer works on weekends), as you will be able to leave the home or set work aside for the time that the project is completed.

Additional scheduling factors to take into consideration include whether you want to be close by to oversee the project and potentially leave space for unexpected delays.

4 - Consider the best time to replace your roof based on weather conditions.

Summer and fall are some of the best times to replace your roof for a reason: Lower humidity and moderate temperatures are ideal for shingle installation. Summer is a particularly ideal time to replace your roof because products like IKO shingles with FastLock sealant are activated by the sun’s heat.

Replacing your roof in cold-weather conditions is not ideal for the materials or your roofers, but it can be easier to find a reputable contractor since it is a slow season. With that said, your roofer will need to take additional health and safety precautions, and the project will likely take longer than it would in fair weather conditions. Cold weather roof replacement also requires additional installation steps, which is likely to result in higher labor costs.

5 - Make a plan for your vehicles.

Your driveway is more or less occupied while contractors replace your roof. Your roofer will likely have a large dumpster delivered to your home a day or two before the beginning of the project, which they will use to dispose of the current roofing materials they remove.

It is not advisable to use your driveway while your roof is being replaced. Reputable contractors will use a magnet to pick up any stray roofing nails from your driveway and gardens at the end of each day of roofing but to be safe, it’s best to find somewhere else to park your cars for the extent of the project.

6 - Set time aside to take down and store any valuables before your roof replacement.

You might be surprised by the level of vibrations that can come with the process of having your roof replaced!

Ensure any fragile interior objects like mementos or photos on the wall are put away in a safe place before the roofers’ arrival. While they are not guaranteed to knock things off the walls or shelves, it is an extra safety precaution that is worth setting aside some extra time for!

Read our article about preparing for a roof replacement for more tips.

7 - Plan for any necessary permits or approvals ahead of your roof replacement to avoid delays.

Depending on where you live and the scope of your roof replacement project, there is a possibility that you may require permits before the contractors can get started. Most contractors will navigate the permit process on your behalf, but it is still important to take into consideration when choosing a time for your roof replacement, particularly if you are planning multiple home renovation or home improvement projects.

Replacing a roof with the same type of roofing materials, repairing missing or damaged shingles and eavestrough replacement often does not require any permits, but we recommend checking your local zoning regulations and bylaws, as well as any Homeowner Association (HOA) rules apply to you and your home. But, if you are adding a second story to your home, changing the slope or pitch of your roof or, say, installing a skylight, these are circumstances that may require a permit. Be sure to speak to your contractor ahead of time and plan your roof replacement accordingly.

8 - Communicate regularly with the roofing company to stay informed of any changes or updates to the roof replacement project timeline and have a contingency plan in place in case of unexpected delays or issues that may arise.

Communication is key in any project. By staying in communication with your roofing company before the project starts and staying informed throughout a roof replacement, you will be less likely to come up against any surprises. If your contractor expects any project delays due to setbacks, like changing weather conditions or material delays, maintaining a steady stream of communication will ensure that you are prepared to adjust your plans accordingly (i.e., leave the dog at the sitter for an extra few days, let your employer know that you need an extra day off, etc.).

9 - Consider the type of roofing material you want to use and its availability.

Material shortages and delays have become quite common in any trade industry following the COVID-19 pandemic. While most reputable roofing companies plan their projects and timelines accordingly, if you hope to replace your roof with a trending, custom or particularly unique roofing material, be sure to let your roofer know well ahead of time.

10 - Finally, be sure to ask the roofing company for advice and guidance on how to best plan for a successful and timely replacement.

As a homeowner, you can try to plan your life around your roof replacement as carefully as possible with the information you have, but one of the best places to start is by speaking to your contractor before even booking the project.

They are the experts and will be able to guide you on best practices, material availability, their schedules and the ideal weather conditions in your particular location.

Original article and image source: IKO Industries

2025: A year of satisfying curiosities

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 06:00:00 PST

By Jenny Yu.

Look back on AskARoofer's top stories, podcasts and videos!

It’s almost the end of the year, so it’s time to reflect on the incredible learning our readers have done through engaging with podcasts, videos, articles and social media content. A recurring theme of the top content from this year, regardless of medium, was the curiosity of our readers that inspired engaging conversations.

Top podcast

Composite versus asphalt roofing

Our top podcast of the year features Megan Stone from DaVinci Roofscapes and Anthony Walsh from DuraShield Roofing & Contracting as they discuss what today’s homeowners should consider when weighing material options for a reroof project. Megan and Anthony break down the pros and cons of both composite and asphalt roofing on durability concerns, frequency of required maintenance, overall performance and value for the price.

IKO expands performance shingle collection with the launch of Olde Style Weatherwood color

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 13:00:00 PST

Inspired by the richness of natural, aged wood, Olde Style Weatherwood brings a classic, heritage-inspired look.

IKO is expanding its performance shingle portfolio with the introduction of a new color: Olde Style Weatherwood. Available this month across the U.S. and Canada, the color is offered in IKO’s Dynasty® and Nordic™ shingle lines.

“IKO Weatherwood has long been a favorite brown blend in our Cambridge line,” said Vince Carrier, residential product development manager at IKO North America. “With Olde Style Weatherwood, we wanted to give homeowners a color they love — warm, timeless and versatile, while also providing the reliable performance and protection they expect from IKO.”

Inspired by the richness of natural, aged wood, Olde Style Weatherwood brings a classic, heritage-inspired look. The color’s warm browns and soft greys pair well with log or stone facings; warm beige, taupe or cream siding; and brown or bronze trim. It also complements metal accents such as bronze, copper or steel, creating a grounded aesthetic for any home. IKO has also released a dynamic video showcasing the color in real-world applications.

At the core of both Dynasty and Nordic IKO shingles is Proven Performance.

Dynasty shingles feature a Class 3 impact rating*, while Nordic shingles deliver Class 4, the highest rating for hail impact resistance. These ratings may help homeowners qualify for reduced insurance premiums where available.
Both lines are reinforced with ArmourZone® technology, providing a 1 ¼-inch nailing surface and a limited wind resistance warranty of up to 130 mph (210 km/h).
These IKO shingles feature tear-resistant tape backing to help prevent nail pull-through and blow-off, and FastLock® sealant that activates under sunlight for a strong bond against water infiltration.

With Olde Style Weatherwood, homeowners get a roof that’s as stylish as it is resilient, protecting their investment while enhancing the look of their home.

Choose the best shingles for your home, get inspired: https://www.iko.com/na/color-gallery/
Find an IKO ROOFPRO near you: https://contractorfinder.iko.com/contractors

*This impact rating is solely for the purpose of enabling residential property owners to obtain a reduction in their residential insurance premium, if available. It is not to be construed as any type of express or implied warranty or guarantee of the impact performance of this shingle by the manufacturer, supplier or installer. For further detail concerning the FM 4473 standards, visit the FM Approvals website. This is not a guarantee of impact resistance against hail. Damage from hail is not covered under the limited warranty.

About IKO

IKO is a worldwide leader in the roofing, waterproofing and insulation industry for residential and commercial markets. A vertically integrated company, IKO operates more than 35 manufacturing plants throughout North America and Europe. IKO is a family-owned business established in 1951.

What are Class 3 and Class 4 impact ratings, and why are they important?

Sat, 11 Oct 2025 06:00:00 PDT

By Emma Peterson.

Learn about class ratings and their role in protecting your home from the elements.

When choosing the right shingles for your roof, you might be overwhelmed by all of the color, material and rating options to choose from. But what are class ratings anyway, and what exactly do they mean for your roof and your home?

In roofing, class ratings are used to designate the ability of a roofing material to resist damage from certain elements, like fire, wind or impact (i.e., hail). Ratings are standardized by industry organizations like Underwriters Laboratories (UL) and the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM).

For example, brands such as IKO Industries, a roofing industry leader, recently announced that all of its laminate shingle products now have either a Class 3 or a Class 4 impact rating. A shingle's Class 3 or Class 4 rating indicates its resistance to impact, with Class 4 being the highest, meaning the shingle can withstand a larger, 2-inch steel ball without damage, compared to a Class 3 shingle which resists a 1.75-inch steel ball.

In this Roofing Road Trips® podcast episode, Heidi J. Ellsworth spoke with IKO’s Jack Gottesman and Dyana Sweigart to break down what these new impact ratings mean for homeowners.

“The biggest benefit is peace of mind for having a resilient roof,” Dyana explained. “Having shingles that are impact-resistance rated simply means it’s a better-quality roof and something that will withstand increasingly severe weather that we've all been experiencing.”

Jack shared an example of these impact-rated shingles in action, saying, “There's a video that we have on our website of a contractor who was in Dallas, which is a big hail area. He had to remove a roof that wasn’t very old because of impact damage. So, he replaced it with an IKO Nordic roof, which carries a Class 4 impact resistance rating. That rating gave him peace of mind, because what it really says is that this shingle is proven to perform even when tested with a process that replicates the impact of two-inch hail.”

Beyond that initial peace of mind about your roof’s ability to withstand whatever nature may throw at it, there are other benefits to a Class 3 or 4 rating. For example, some home insurance policies give homeowners discounts for having an impact-rated shingle.

The best news about the proven performance of IKO’s laminate shingles? Impact ratings are just the start! Jack shared, “When it comes to our Dynasty and Nordic shingles, we are continuously innovating. They all come in a variety of enhanced colors that look amazing on the roof. They have that wide nailing zone on the face, what we call ArmourZone, that's reinforced by the band in the back to help protect against everything from nail penetration to wind uplift up to 130 miles an hour.”

Learn more about the incredible performance of IKO’s Class 3 and Class 4 products for your roof!

Roofing is about people, not just projects

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 06:00:00 PDT

By Dani Sheehan.

With IKO shingles installed by a ROOFPRO contractor, you’re getting strength, beauty and protection that lasts a lifetime.

For Becca Haggard, founder and CEO of That Girl Roofing in Cinicinatti, OH., roofing isn’t about selling a project. It’s about protecting people and their homes. “We’re there to serve the person and their need – not just sell them something they don’t [need],” she shared in a recent interview with The Coffee Shops™.

That people-first approach is how Becca found IKO Industries and their Dynasty shingles, a product she trusts so much that she put them on her own roof. For homeowners, that trust translates into lasting protection, a quality you can see and peace of mind for years to come.

The difference is in the details

Becca admits she once thought of IKO as just another brand, until she met with a representative and experienced the shingles for herself. “Holding the shingles in my hands, feeling the weight and durability of them – I realized they were different,” she shared.

IKO’s shingles stood out for their thicker design, consistent color quality and innovative approach to production. “They bundle their shingles into what’s called a true square, which means less waste and faster projects,” she explained. On top of that, IKO controls its own materials, from asphalt to granules, ensuring consistent quality and color depth – something not every manufacturer can claim.

A roof should be a once-in-a-lifetime investment. As part of the IKO ROOFPRO program, Becca can offer extended warranties not available from every contractor. “For a lot of my homeowners, that 40-year warranty is a huge benefit. It’s the peace of mind that they’ll never have to think about their roof again,” she emphasized.

She added, “I tell clients, I want to put the shingle on your roof that guarantees me I never have to come back. Not because I don’t like you, but because I want you to know it’s done right the first time.”

Choosing the right roofer for your home

Becca encourages homeowners to take their time and compare not just pricing, but warranties, company reputation and installer qualifications. Her advice:

Compare warranties: Make sure you’re looking at equal levels of coverage, not just shingles.
Check reputation: Look for contractors who deliver on their promises and are backed by strong manufacturer relationships or customer referrals.
Trust experience and certification: For example, a ROOFPRO contractor can offer warranties and other product knowledge others can’t.

At the end of the day, Becca believes the right combination of product and installer is what gives you lasting confidence. “I chose IKO because I believe in the brand and I put it on my own house,” she shared. “That’s the kind of peace of mind I want to offer every homeowner.”

Strong shingles, trusted contractors

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 06:00:00 PDT

By Dani Sheehan.

Investing in a new roof means choosing durable materials and a trusted contractor to install them.

Replacing your roof probably isn’t on your everyday wish list, but when the time comes, choosing the right materials and the right contractor can make all the difference in your experience. According to Luis Echeverria, president of Final Touch Construction and an IKO Industries’ ROOFPRO contractor, choosing IKO shingles and a certified installer gives you the confidence that your new roof will protect your home for years to come.

"When you compare shingles side by side, it’s easy to see,” Luis noted about IKO shingles. “They’re a thicker shingle and homeowners really notice the quality right away.” A thicker shingle not only improves durability against wind, rain and snow but also boosts your home’s curb appeal.

IKO also offers a wide variety of colors and styles, making it simple for you to find a look that complements your home. Pair that with extended warranty options, and you get both beauty and long-term peace of mind.

Why your contractor matters

A roof is only as good as the crew that installs it. That’s why the relationship between contractor and manufacturer is so important. Through IKO’s ROOFPRO program, contractors like Luis receive hands-on training, product knowledge and direct support from IKO representatives.

The ROOFPRO program also means that the roofer working on your home is backed by a manufacturer who ensures the job is done right. “We’ve been with IKO for so many years, and we’re certified,” Luis shared of his own company. “That creates credibility. It gives homeowners comfort knowing they’re dealing with the right contractor.”

Luis emphasized that choosing a contractor doesn’t just come down to the cheapest price. He recommended confirming that a roofer is licensed, bonded and insured before letting them work on your home. It’s also important to ask about a company’s best practices. For example, Luis does his best to protect landscaping and clean up after installation. Because he does work in California, he also ensures his crew obtains the proper permits before starting any work.

Other advice Luis offered if you’re looking for a new roof includes:

Ask about experience: A contractor and a company with years in the business brings proven reliability.
Compare apples to apples: Don’t just look at price – compare products, warranties and service.
Look for comfort and trust: Within minutes of meeting a contractor, you should feel confident that they’re the right fit for you.

With IKO shingles and a ROOFPRO contractor, you get durable products, expert installation and the assurance that your home is protected. Luis concluded, “At the end of the day, reputation and peace of mind mean everything.”

IKO launches Beyond™: A comprehensive sustainability program focused on environment, people and business

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 19:00:00 PDT

With over 70 years of operations, 35 manufacturing plants worldwide and distribution in 96 countries, IKO is leveraging its vertically integrated supply chain to drive sustainability impact across North America through Beyond.

IKO, a global leader in the roofing, waterproofing and insulation industry, today announced the launch of Beyond™, a formalized sustainability program designed to integrate responsible practices across the company’s entire value chain — from sourcing and operations to distribution, installation, product use and end-of-life.

The launch coincides with the debut of the IKO Beyond website ikobeyond.com, a central hub for the company’s sustainability information, initiatives and resources. The platform will showcase existing programs, strategic partnerships and innovative solutions rooted in IKO’s core values of Sharing Knowledge, Performance, Integrity, Humility, Long-Term Thinking and Agility.

“Beyond reflects how IKO has always approached business – with integrity, foresight and a responsibility to do more than the minimum,” said Darren Rafter, director of sustainability at IKO North America. “It’s about building on the sustainable practices we’ve already embedded and continuing to weave them into everyday decision making.”

With over 70 years of operations, 35 manufacturing plants worldwide and distribution in 96 countries, IKO is leveraging its vertically integrated supply chain to drive sustainability impact across North America through Beyond. The program is structured around three core pillars:

Environment – Investing in environmental efficiency, recycling programs and responsible material sourcing to reduce raw material requirements and waste generation.
People – Advancing health, safety and community programs, as well as employee development and people focused programs.
Business – Embedding ethical governance, responsibility and innovation-led R&D to ensure long-term resilience and accountability.

“Beyond is more than a program name — it’s a reflection of our values in action,” says David Koschitzky, CEO of IKO North America. “Values that have guided us for generations; long term, integrity and performance. This is the right thing to do, now and in the future.”

From quarrying and processing roofing granules to extruding and printing wrapping, IKO maintains unmatched control over the lifecycle of our materials. The new IKO Beyond website, now live at ikobeyond.com offers access to environmental declarations, sustainability initiatives, news and resources for contractors, customers and community partners.

Looking ahead, IKO plans to expand its sustainability projects, including new developments in waste reduction and energy efficiency. The company will also continue to strengthen its relationships with industry leaders through its ongoing partnerships with organizations such as the Canada Green Building Council (CAGBC) and the Construction & Demolition Recycling Association (CDRA), while forging new collaborations across the industry.