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.
When water starts dripping or shingles blow off in a storm, it’s natural to want a quick fix. But when it comes to roofing—especially in Ontario’s unpredictable climate—rushing a decision can cost you thousands.
At Garcia Roofing, we’ve seen firsthand how slowing down, asking the right questions, and comparing quotes can make the difference between a fair investment and unnecessary overspending.
A Real Story: How One Client Saved Thousands
Recently, a local property owner contacted a competitor about what seemed like a minor roofing issue. The contractor inspected the roof and quickly claimed it needed a full replacement.
The client was pressured into leaving a $2,000 deposit—without even knowing the final cost. When the full price was revealed at over $18,000, the client called Garcia Roofing for a second opinion.
Our certified team inspected the roof, provided a transparent assessment, and delivered a better price—even if the client couldn’t recover their initial deposit.
The lesson? Don’t panic. Always get more than one opinion.
Why Fall Is a Risky Time to Rush Roofing Decisions
Fall is one of the busiest times for Ontario roofing contractors. With winter around the corner, many companies try to fill their schedules—and some unfortunately pressure property owners into quick, expensive commitments.
This seasonal “frenzy” can lead to:
Inflated quotes
High-pressure sales tactics
Rushed workmanship
Deposits taken without transparency
While urgent repairs sometimes can’t wait, full roof replacements rarely need to be decided on the spot.
How to Protect Yourself as a Property Owner
Slowing down and doing your homework makes all the difference. Garcia Roofing recommends:
1. Get At Least Three Quotes
Compare pricing, timelines, and materials side by side. Look for clear breakdowns.
2. Check Certifications and Training
Certified contractors meet higher standards and often provide access to extended warranties.
