CHAPTER 24 — Roofing in Early Canadian Fishing Villages & Coastal Settlements

Fishing villages along the Atlantic, Pacific, and Great Lakes coasts developed roofing systems specifically engineered for constant moisture, high winds, salt exposure, and year-round storms. These roofs became some of the most recognizable and enduring features of Canada’s maritime heritage.

Why Coastal Roofing Was Unique

• Salt exposure: Corrosive sea air damaged many traditional roofing materials.
• Storm surges & hurricanes: Atlantic Canada required strong, wind-resistant systems.
• Constant moisture: Roofs needed to dry quickly and resist rot.
• Availability of timber: Maritime forests supplied abundant softwood materials.

Common Roofing Materials Used in Coastal Settlements

1. Cedar, Fir & Spruce Shingles

These were the primary roofing materials for centuries in fishing communities. Cedar resisted rot, while fir and spruce were cheap and easy to produce.

2. Hand-Split Shakes

Thicker than shingles, shakes provided better storm resistance and were common on homes, fish shacks, and community buildings.

3. Early Metal Roofing (1800s–1900s)

Coastal communities adopted tin and galvanized metal earlier than inland towns due to salt resistance and easy snow shedding.

4. Tarred Cloth & Canvas

On temporary fishing huts, tarred canvas offered quick waterproofing before more permanent materials were installed.

Roof Shapes in Fishing Villages

• Steep gable roofs to shed heavy rain and snow.
• Low eaves to prevent wind uplift under open edges.
• Saltbox roofs commonly used in the Maritimes.
• Shed roofs for small fish-processing shacks.

Performance in Harsh Coastal Climates

These roofing systems were adapted for:

• Hurricane-force winds along Atlantic coasts.
• Heavy Pacific rainfall in British Columbia.
• Freeze-thaw cycles along the Great Lakes.
• Year-round humidity that accelerated rot in lower-quality wood.

Historical & Cultural Impact

The colourful shingle roofs of the Maritimes, the cedar-scented coastal communities of B.C., and the practical fish huts of Newfoundland and Labrador all contribute to Canada’s maritime identity. Many historic coastal buildings still feature traditional roofing built over 150 years ago.

This chapter is part of the ROOFNOW™ Canadian Roofing History Archive.