Roofing in Millwoods, Edmonton: What to Know

Millwoods Development History

Millwoods was conceived in 1969 as a planned community to accommodate Edmonton's growing population. Development proceeded in phases, with neighborhoods like Tipaskan, Kameyosek, and Satoo built in the early-to-mid 1970s. Mill Woods Road (now 23 Avenue) served as the commercial spine as neighborhoods like Lakewood, Lee Ridge, and Minchau followed through the 1980s. Later development extended south into Meadows, Wild Rose, and Maple Ridge in the 1990s and 2000s.

This phased development means roofing needs vary significantly across Millwoods. Homes in the original 1970s neighborhoods are now 50+ years old—if they retain original roofing (unlikely), or more commonly, are on their second roof now needing its third. 1980s homes are in the replacement window, while 1990s-2000s construction has remaining roof life.

Common Millwoods Home Styles

Millwoods' housing stock reflects 1970s-80s building trends, which is actually advantageous for roofing costs:

• Bungalows: Single-story homes with simple hip or gable roofs—straightforward and economical to replace
• Split-levels: Multiple levels with relatively simple rooflines—moderate complexity
• Bi-levels: Two-level homes with standard roof designs—efficient to roof
• Two-story: More roof area but typically simple geometry

Unlike newer Edmonton developments with complex architectural roofs, Millwoods homes generally have straightforward roof designs that keep replacement costs manageable. This is a significant advantage for homeowners budgeting for necessary upgrades.

Aging Roof Considerations

For Millwoods homeowners in original 1970s-80s neighborhoods, roof age is a primary concern. Asphalt shingles installed 25-35 years ago are at or past their expected lifespan. Signs it's time for replacement include:

• Shingles that are cracked, curled, or missing
• Significant granule loss (accumulation in gutters)
• Multiple previous repairs
• Visible wear even from ground level
• Neighbors replacing their similar-age roofs

Don't wait for active leaks—by then, water damage to decking, insulation, and interiors may already have occurred. Proactive replacement before failure saves money and prevents disruption.

Storm Chasers and Scams

Established neighborhoods like Millwoods are frequently targeted by roofing scammers, especially after hail storms. Door-to-door salespeople offering "free inspections" may be legitimate local contractors—or they may be out-of-town "storm chasers" who perform substandard work, file fraudulent insurance claims, or disappear with deposits.

Protect yourself:

• Never sign contracts at the door under pressure
• Get at least 2-3 quotes from established Edmonton companies
• Verify business licenses, insurance, and WCB coverage
• Check HomeStars and Google reviews for track record
• Be wary of unusually low prices or demands for large upfront payments

Nearby Neighborhoods

Millwoods connects to several other Edmonton communities. To the north lie Idylwylde, Holyrood, and Bonnie Doon with housing from earlier eras. East, across 50 Street, is the industrial area and Sherwood Park beyond. South of Millwoods are The Meadows and other recent developments. Homeowners throughout southeast Edmonton face similar climate challenges and are served by the same local roofing contractors.