Don’t Let Your Roof Give You a Scare This Halloween!
As jack-o-lanterns glow and leaves fall, Ontario’s weather brings more than just spooky vibes — it brings rain, wind, and moisture that can haunt your roof if left unchecked.
At Garcia Roofing, we’ve seen it all: hidden leaks, structural sagging, and costly surprises that seem to appear overnight. The good news? With the right care, you can keep your roof from becoming a real-life horror story.
The “Haunted” Warning Signs of Roof Trouble
You might not hear ghosts in your attic, but if you notice any of these signs, it could mean your roof is crying out for help:
Creeping water stains on ceilings or walls
Eerie drafts near rooflines or vents
Mysterious puddles forming on your flat roof after rain
Crumbling caulking or torn flashing around vents
If any of these sound familiar, don’t wait for the next storm — it’s time to call in the experts.
Common Roofing “Nightmares” — and How to Avoid Them
1. Sudden Appearing Leaks
Flat roof leaks often start small, hiding behind insulation or under layers of roofing material. By the time they’re visible, the damage is already done. Regular inspections are the best defense.
2. Drainage Clogs & Backups
Clogged drains and scuppers are like blocked arteries for your roof — leading to ponding water, ice formation, and premature wear. Keep them clean and flowing all fall long.
3. Holes & Punctures
Sharp debris or careless maintenance can pierce roofing membranes without immediate signs. Certified roofing professionals have the tools and training to find and seal these invisible threats before they grow.
4. Neglected Maintenance
Skipping routine maintenance may save time now — but it can summon much bigger costs later. Garcia Roofing offers preventative maintenance programs that keep roofs healthy and haunt-free.
Tricks (and Treats) for a Longer-Lasting Roof
Tricks to remember:
Schedule inspections twice a year (spring & fall).
Keep debris away from drains and roof edges.
Check flashing after every major storm.
Seal minor cracks before they grow.
And the ultimate treat? Peace of mind knowing your roof will stand strong through Ontario’s unpredictable seasons.
When to Call the Experts
Not every roofing issue is visible from the ground — and climbing up for a quick look isn’t worth the risk. That’s where we come in. While fall and spring are the most critical times to inspect your roof due to changing weather and heavy rainfall, they’re also the busiest seasons for roofing professionals. That’s why Garcia Roofing recommends scheduling routine roof checks year-round — ensuring small issues are caught early, no matter the season.
At Garcia Roofing, our certified crews are trained in all major roofing systems and safety standards. We provide thorough inspections, detailed reports, and clear repair recommendations — no tricks, just trustworthy service (treats!).
We’re not just here for today, we’re here for tomorrow as well.
As September turns into October, Ontario building owners face one of the most important times of year for roof maintenance. Fall is a critical transition season: the last chance to prepare your roof for snow, ice, and freeze-thaw cycles.
At Garcia Roofing, we’ve seen how a few hours of preventative care in the fall can save thousands in emergency repairs over the winter. Here’s our certified fall roofing checklist.
1. Clear Leaves and Debris from Roof and Drains
Leaves, branches, and dirt collect quickly in the fall. If drains, scuppers, or gutters clog, water will pool, freeze, and damage membranes. Clear everything now before the first freeze.
2. Inspect Seams, Flashing, and Membranes
Fall’s freeze-thaw cycles put stress on roof seams. Check for:
Lifting flashing
Cracked sealant
Separated seams
Bubbles or blisters in the membrane
If you spot issues, call a professional before snow sets in.
3. Verify Insulation and Vapor Barriers
Heat loss from poor insulation can cause ice dams and condensation. Inspect insulation for wet spots or compression and ensure vapor barriers are intact.
We often find that small insulation upgrades in fall lead to lower heating costs and fewer winter leaks.
4. Test Drainage Systems
Pour water into roof drains to confirm proper flow. Look for signs of slow drainage or leaks around drain connections. Blocked drainage is one of the top causes of flat roof failures in winter.
5. Review Roof Access and Safety
Fall is the best time to make sure:
Roof ladders, hatches, and walkways are safe
Snow guards and rails are secure
Contractors and maintenance staff know safe access protocols
Safety reduces liability and ensures winter snow removal can be performed quickly and safely.
Bonus Tip: Schedule a Professional Fall Inspection
A fall inspection by certified professionals ensures nothing is missed. At Garcia Roofing, our fall service includes:
Comprehensive membrane and flashing check
Drain and scupper clearing
Sealant touch-ups
Snow load readiness review
A written condition report
We’re not just here for today, we’re here for tomorrow as well.
Flat roofs offer great value for commercial, industrial, and multi-unit residential buildings across Ontario. But without proper preventative maintenance, even the best flat roof system can develop major problems—leaks, ponding water, insulation failure, and more.
At Garcia Roofing, we believe quality doesn’t end after installation. With over a decade of experience in Ontario’s roofing industry, we know that proactive care saves our clients thousands over the life of a roof.
Let’s explore how regular maintenance can help avoid common problems—and why working with a professional roofing partner like Garcia Roofing is a smart long-term strategy.
Common Flat Roof Problems You Can Avoid
1. Leaks and Moisture Infiltration
Cause: Punctures, seam separation, failing membranes, or ponding water.
Preventable With: Semi-annual inspections and early patching.
2. Ponding Water
Cause: Poor drainage design or blocked scuppers.
Preventable With: Drain cleaning, slope correction, and timely snow/ice removal.
3. Flashing Failure
Cause: Expansion and contraction from seasonal temperature swings.
Preventable With: Re-sealing flashing joints before winter.
4. Membrane Blistering or Cracking
Cause: Trapped moisture or UV degradation.
Preventable With: Protective coatings and vapor barrier maintenance.
5. Vegetation Growth and Debris Buildup
Cause: Neglected cleaning or poor roof access protocols.
Preventable With: Monthly cleaning, especially in spring and fall.
Why Preventative Maintenance Matters—Especially in Ontario
Ontario’s climate puts flat roofs through a lot. Heavy snow, spring melt, freeze-thaw cycles, and hot summers cause rapid wear—especially around seams, drainage systems, and rooftop penetrations.
Without regular checkups, even minor issues can lead to:
Interior water damage
Insulation saturation and energy loss
Membrane failure
Mold and mildew growth
Preventative maintenance doesn’t just extend the life of your roof—it also protects your tenants, your energy bills, and your reputation as a responsible property owner.
How Garcia Roofing Supports Long-Term Roof Health
At Garcia Roofing, we offer structured maintenance plans that are designed around:
Your specific roof type (ModBit, TPO, EPDM, BUR, etc.)
Ontario’s seasonal maintenance windows
Manufacturer warranty requirements
Proactive scheduling, so you never miss a critical inspection
Our services include:
Debris and vegetation clearing
Visual and tactile membrane inspection
Drain and scupper flushing
Flashing and caulking inspection
Snow load assessments in winter
Annual condition reports for your records
We also advise on upgrades like coatings or drainage enhancements if wear is starting to show.
What You Can Do Between Professional Inspections
While it’s important to leave most repairs to professionals, building owners and managers can still keep an eye on their roof between visits.
Flat Roof Owner Tips:
Inspect from a ladder (never walk the roof unsafely)
Look for pooled water 48+ hours after rain
Clear leaves and debris from roof and drain outlets
Watch for indoor signs: ceiling stains, musty smells, high humidity
If you own or manage a building with a flat roof, you know it’s an investment—one that should protect your property for decades when properly maintained. But one nagging question everyone in this position has likely had at some point is, how long does a flat roof really last in Ontario’s climate?
The answer: it depends on material type, installation, drainage, maintenance, and local conditions. Let’s break it down so you can understand what you have, what you may be looking at, and avoid costly surprises.
Typical Flat Roof Lifespans by Material
The lifespan of your flat roof largely depends on how well it was planned, installed, and maintained.
Why Planning Matters:
It’s important to keep in mind that partly due to lifespan, different materials are recommended for different applications. Since most options have a similar lifespan on their own, we have to consider the application we’re working with. For example, we won’t use EPDM above a restaurant because the grease will eat at the membrane.
Why Installation Matters:
This one should be pretty self-explanatory, but it’s worth repeating. An experienced, well trained and trusted flat roofing company is going to provide an installation that meets manufacturer expectations, and maximizes the life of their products.
Why Maintenance Matters:
Just like your vehicle, preventative and scheduled maintenance can greatly increase the lifespan of your flat roof when done properly by experienced flat roofer mechanics. If maintenance is not kept up with, the expected lifespan of your flat roof could be much lower than you think.
Common Flat Roof Materials & Lifespans
EPDM Rubber Roof: Up to 20 years
TPO Roof: Up to 20–30 years
PVC Roof: Up to 20–30 years
Modified Bitumen (ModBit): Up to 20–30 years
Built-Up Roof (BUR): Up to 20–30 years
These ranges assume appropriate material selection for each project,proper installation and regular maintenance. Ontario’s snow, ice, and freeze-thaw cycles can shorten lifespan if drainage or insulation are neglected, and certain materials are used for certain projects for safety, durability and reliability reasons. Trust a company like Garcia Roofing to select, install and maintain the right roof for you.
How to Identify What Kind of Flat Roof You Have
The first step in determining how long your flat roof should last is a solid understanding of what kind of flat roof you have. Many building owners aren’t sure which flat roof type they own—especially in older buildings, so if you’re not sure, you are not alone.
Here’s how you can start:
Check building documents: Your maintenance logs or building specs may list the system.
Visual clues:
EPDM is usually black rubbery sheets.
TPO/PVC are white or light-colored and heat-welded at seams.
ModBit or similar roofing typically has a granular surface, sometimes with seams sealed by torch or adhesive.
BUR looks like layers of tar and gravel.
When in doubt, call a pro—especially before climbing onto a roof.
Factors That Can Impact Roof Lifespan
1. Material Quality
High-grade materials like thicker membranes or premium adhesives resist UV rays and temperature swings better.
2. Proper Installation
Poor workmanship causes premature leaks, ponding, or membrane separation. That’s why certified contractors like Garcia Roofing matter.
3. Drainage Design
Standing water degrades roofing faster. Proper slopes, drains, and scuppers are essential—especially with heavy Ontario snow melt.
4. Insulation & Vapor Barriers
Good insulation protects your membrane from stress caused by extreme temperature swings.
5. Routine Maintenance
Annual inspections, debris clearing, and minor repairs go a long way in preventing major issues.
How to Check Your Flat Roof for Signs of Trouble
DIY Inspection Tips
If it’s safe and accessible, here’s what to look for:
Ponding Water: After rain, check for standing water that lasts more than 48 hours.
Visible Blisters or Cracks: Look for bubbles under the membrane or splits along seams.
Damaged Flashing: Check metal edges and seams for rust or separation.
Interior Stains: Brown spots on ceilings or walls can mean hidden leaks.
Moss or Vegetation: Indicates pooling water and trapped debris.
Why Hiring a Professional is the Smart Move
Flat roofs are tricky. Hidden leaks, poor drainage, and failing seams often go unnoticed until major damage appears.
A trusted local expert like Garcia Roofing:
Knows Ontario’s weather conditions
Understands the nuances of each flat roof system
Uses safe inspection methods
Spots early warning signs homeowners might miss
Provides detailed maintenance plans to extend roof life
How Garcia Roofing Extends Flat Roof Lifespan
With over a decade of experience, we don’t just install roofs—we build systems that stand the test of time. Here’s how we help clients maximize their roof’s lifespan:
Detailed inspections & condition reports
Preventive maintenance plans
Quality repairs using compatible materials
Upgrades for insulation and drainage
Transparent advice about when replacement is truly needed
Remember, at Garcia Roofing, we’re not just here for today—we’re here for tomorrow too.
The Rising Concern Over Tariffs and Their Ripple Effect
In recent weeks, discussions around potential new tariffs imposed by the U.S. government on Canadian goods have made headlines. With proposed levies on exports such as steel, aluminum, and other key building materials, Canadian industries—including the roofing sector—are bracing for possible impacts.
Although the full details and scope of these tariffs are changing daily, they bring renewed attention to the cost of imported materials, supply chain stability, and long-term pricing within the roofing industry we haven’t seen since COVID-19.
What This Means for Roofing Prices in Canada
Why Roofing Materials Are Vulnerable
Many roofing products are made in the United States, including flat roofing systems, commercial roofing, and even residential roofing products, however some materials may also originate in Canada. These include:
Aluminum flashing and fasteners
Modified bitumen membranes
Underlayments, vapour barriers, and water-proofing membranes
Insulation materials and adhesives
Unfortunately, whether tariffs are applied or not, the increased uncertainty around the cost of importing these goods into Canada have already lead to higher procurement costs for roofing companies, which may—depending on the severity—translate into higher project quotes.
When do prices increase?
It’s important to note that roofing material prices – along with many other building materials, such as lumber – tend to incur price increases every spring and fall, with or without tariffs.
This time, similar to what we experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic, manufacturers and suppliers have already raised their prices slightly above their normal increases to compensate for the uncertainty in the market.
Our Track Record: Resilience Through Uncertainty
Surviving and Thriving Through COVID-19
Garcia Roofing isn’t new to navigating uncertainty. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we successfully managed supply chain disruptions, delivery delays, and price volatility, all while continuing to serve our clients with integrity and efficiency. We implemented strategic sourcing, bulk ordering, and scheduling adjustments to avoid cost increases wherever possible.
Adaptive Strategies That Keep Your Project on Track
With the lessons we’ve learned, we’re well-prepared to take on today’s economic fluctuations. Our current approach includes:
Diversifying supplier relationships to avoid over-reliance on U.S. imports
Sourcing certified Canadian-made products when possible
Keeping extra stock of high-demand materials to avoid shortages
Providing timely updates to clients about any changes in material availability or costs
What This Means for You as a Property Owner or Builder
As a client of Garcia Roofing—whether you’re a homeowner, contractor, or building manager—you can trust that:
Our prices are guaranteed for up to 60 days, and Purchase Orders, once placed, are valid for up to 12 months.
Our team has extensive experience negotiating with the right people at the right time to ensure we’re providing the best possible prices to our clients.
We are capable mechanics, which means if we can fix your roof instead of replacing it completely until prices stabilize, we will offer this as an alternative.
We stay informed. Our team actively monitors economic and regulatory changes to minimize disruption.
We communicate clearly. If material costs shift, we’ll update you as soon as possible—no surprises.
We put your budget first. We’ll work with you to explore all material options and find cost-effective solutions that don’t compromise quality.
We’re in this for the long haul. Like our tagline says: “We’re not just here for today, we’re here for tomorrow.”
How to Prepare for Roofing Projects Amid Economic Uncertainty
Even in an unpredictable market, there are steps you can take to stay ahead:
1. Book Early
Scheduling your project in advance gives us time to secure the best material pricing and lock in dates before any potential changes occur.
2. Be Open to Alternatives
Our team will always recommend the best materials for your needs, but if a specific product becomes unavailable or cost-prohibitive, we’ll suggest reliable alternatives that still meet your performance and aesthetic goals. We may also suggest a roof repair instead of a roof replacement, if possible.
3. Ask Questions
We encourage clients to stay engaged and informed. If you have concerns about your project’s pricing or timeline, we’re always here to talk it through.
Why Garcia Roofing Is the Trusted Partner in Uncertain Times
We understand that the roofing industry isn’t just about installing membranes or sealing joints—it’s about trust, transparency, and reliability. Whether it’s a national trade dispute, supply chain hiccup, or weather-driven delay, we pride ourselves on being a steady partner for your project.
When you choose Garcia Roofing, you’re choosing a team that plans ahead, communicates honestly, and always puts quality first.
Why Spring is a Critical Time for Roof Maintenance
Spring brings fluctuating temperatures, heavy rainfall, and rapid snowmelt, all of which can expose vulnerabilities in your roofing system. Proper maintenance is key to preventing costly damage and prolonging the life of your roof.
Common Spring Roofing Issues
Water Pooling and Drainage Problems
Flat roofs are particularly prone to water pooling, which can lead to leaks and structural damage. Clogged drains and scuppers can prevent proper runoff, causing standing water that weakens roofing materials over time.
Freeze-Thaw Cycles and Roof Damage
Ontario’s fluctuating temperatures can lead to repeated freezing and thawing, which causes cracks and deterioration in roofing materials. This is especially problematic for older roofs or those with minor existing damage.
Mold and Algae Growth
Spring’s wet conditions create the perfect environment for mold, algae, and moss, which can degrade roofing materials and lead to further damage if left untreated.
Essential Spring Roof Maintenance Tips
1. Clear Debris from Roof and Gutters
Regularly remove leaves, branches, and dirt to prevent clogged drainage systems and water pooling.
2. Inspect for Damage and Leaks
Check for cracks, blisters, or soft spots in your roofing membrane. Interior water stains or damp insulation may indicate leaks that need immediate attention.
3. Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection
Certified roofers can identify hidden damage, ensure proper drainage, and recommend necessary repairs before small issues turn into major problems.
4. Ensure Proper Drainage and Water Flow
Check drains, downspouts, and scuppers for blockages to prevent water from accumulating on your flat roof.
How Garcia Roofing Helps Protect Your Roof This Spring
At Garcia Roofing, we specialize in comprehensive spring roof inspections, preventive maintenance, and professional repairs. Our certified team ensures that your roof is ready to handle Ontario’s unpredictable weather.
Get in Touch with Garcia Roofing
Don’t wait until a small leak becomes a major issue. Contact Garcia Roofing today to schedule your spring roof inspection and maintenance service.
We’re not just here for today, we’ll be here for tomorrow.
