Forceful winds have roofing companies busier than ever

Another windy weekend in Regina has roofing companies busier than ever.

Wind gusts up to 80 km/h tore the shingles off many roofs across the city. It’s been so busy that most roofing companies 980 CJME reached out to were too occupied to do an interview.

We did manage to get in touch with Todd Popowich, the owner of Excel Roofing. He said it’s been tough to keep up with all of the business coming in.

“From 7:00 (on Monday) morning until I left the office at 9:00, I didn’t get off the phone once. It was continuously ringing… which is a good thing,” he said.

He estimates his company booked more than 30 jobs over the weekend, and they’re still coming in.

Popowich said one issue with roofs that can cause wind damage is old or under-maintained shingles.

“One of the problems is that if they lift up and get dust under them, then the sealant doesn’t stick. Then, you get the wind that picks it up and it becomes a domino effect on the shingles. Then, you’ve got problems,” he explained.

However, he said it shouldn’t be a major issue as long as you regularly have your roof checked and maintained.

“Once or twice a year, call a roofing company to come out and take a look around to make sure everything’s in order. That’s the best way to avoid damage – doing your maintenance,” he said.

While business is good for Popowich, the high winds do still create some challenges.

“Of course, it makes it harder to put the shingles on when they’re flapping around all over the place, but you do what you have to do.”

Wind has buffeted Regina and many other parts of the province. Southeast of Prince Albert, a train was derailed by the wind. Hail and heavy rain have also caused issues in communities further to the north.