The History of Roofing in British Columbia
- May 23, 2025
British Columbia’s roofing history is deeply intertwined with its climate, natural resources, and waves of settlement. From traditional Indigenous shelters to today’s sustainable roofing technologies, BC’s roofs tell the story of cultural adaptation, innovation, and environmental awareness.
Indigenous Roofing Traditions
Before European settlers arrived, Indigenous peoples across Canada were skilled at constructing homes well-suited to their environments. Early indiginous roofs were constructed using natural materials that were locally available, providing shelter and protection from the harsh Canadian climate. On the BC coast, nations like the Haida, Coast Salish, and Nuu-chah-nulth built large longhouses, or plank houses, covered with hand-split cedar planks. BC’s coastal rainforests are abundant in Cedar, which was chosen for its rot resistance and insulating properties. Inland Indigenous groups used materials like bark, sod, or animal hides, suited to drier or colder environments. Traditional indiginous building techniques reflected deep knowledge of local ecology and seasonal patterns. An examination of these early buildings and roofing systems highlights the ingenuity of Indigenous peoples in locally sourcing materials to create durable and functional homes.
Colonial Influence
With the arrival of European settlers in the 18th and 19th centuries, roofing styles began to change. Colonial architecture brought pitched roofs and the widespread use of cedar shingles. Again, BC’s forests provided an abundant supply of high-quality cedar wood. Cedar planks were then split into shingles that were both practical and aesthetically pleasing. In urban centers like Victoria and Vancouver, early homes typically featured wood-shingled roofs, which were easy to produce and replace.
Industrialization
By the early 20th century, BC saw rapid industrial growth, and roofing evolved alongside it. Asphalt shingles, invented in the U.S. in the late 1800s, quickly gained popularity in Canada. They offered a cheaper and more fire-resistant alternative to wood shingles which was especially important as urban density increased and building codes became stricter. Flat roofs also became more common on commercial and multi-family buildings, especially in Vancouver’s urban core. These were typically built with tar and gravel systems, which provided a watertight seal over large, flat surfaces.
Post-War Innovation
After World War II, BC experienced a housing boom. Prefabricated materials and faster construction methods led to a standardized approach to roofing. Enter the era of the Vancouver Special. Fiberglass-based asphalt shingles became the norm in the suburbs, while aluminum, steel, and built-up roofing systems appeared on commercial buildings. The focus during this era was affordability, speed, and efficiency.
Environmental Awareness
By the 1970s and 1980s, environmental concerns began influencing construction in BC. Energy efficiency, insulation, and waste reduction became important topics. Roofing products with better UV protection, longer life spans, and improved thermal properties entered the market. Green roofing also gained traction, especially in cities like Vancouver. These “living roofs” involve layers of soil and vegetation that help reduce urban heat, manage stormwater, and improve air quality. Vancouver became a North American leader in green building practices, with bylaws encouraging eco-friendly roofing systems on new developments.
Future of Roofing in BC
Today, roofing in British Columbia is more diverse and advanced than ever. New technologies continue to expand the eco-friendly roofing options available to today's homeowners. Building codes now require higher performance standards, and incentives exist for energy-efficient and solar-ready roofing. Sustainability and resilience are key concerns, especially with climate change increasing the frequency of extreme weather.
The history of roofing in BC reflects broader trends in culture, environment, and technology. What began with hand-split cedar and bark has evolved into a highly technical field driven by innovation and sustainability. As BC continues to grow and adapt, its roofs will remain a vital symbol of its heritage and resilience.
Reach out to our team at Eco Exteriors today to discuss which roofing materials are the best fit for your home and your future.
