Roof Replacement
Commercial Roof
As one of Toronto’s leading roof replacement contractors, Universal Roofs delivers full-service commercial roof replacement for office buildings, retail complexes, multi-unit residential properties, and institutional facilities across the Greater Toronto Area. Our team manages every phase from initial assessment and permit acquisition through final inspection, using premium architectural shingle systems from IKO, CertainTeed, and GAF — three of North America’s most trusted roofing manufacturers.
How Universal Roofs Handles Commercial Roof Replacement Projects in Toronto
A commercial roof replacement is one of the most significant investments a building owner makes. Done right, it protects your property, your tenants, and your bottom line for 30 to 50 years. Universal Roofs brings certified installation expertise, premium materials, and a proven project management process to every commercial roof replacement project in the GTA. Whether your building needs a complete tear-off and re-roof or a targeted section replacement, we deliver results that last.
Common Commercial Roofing Problems Toronto Properties Face
Commercial roofs in Toronto endure punishing conditions: sustained winds up to 120 km/h during winter storms, ice dam formation along eaves and valleys, shingle blow-offs from freeze-thaw cycling, and accelerated granule loss from UV exposure during hot summers. An aging commercial roof develops multiple failure points — lifted shingle tabs, cracked flashings, deteriorated pipe boots, and compromised ridge caps — that create chronic leaks, tenant complaints, and escalating emergency repair costs. Without a comprehensive replacement, these problems compound year after year.
What We Deliver With Every Commercial Roof Replacement
Every commercial roof replacement we undertake is engineered to deliver: a complete, code-compliant roofing system meeting Ontario Building Code Section 9.26, maximum wind resistance (rated up to 210 km/h with IKO Dynasty), proper attic ventilation achieving balanced intake and exhaust airflow, ice and water shield protection at all vulnerable areas (eaves, valleys, skylights, chimneys), and a manufacturer-backed warranty of 25 to 50 years. We also ensure proper attic ventilation is part of every replacement project.
Our Commercial Roofing Systems and Solutions
We offer three premium steep-slope systems for commercial buildings. IKO Dynasty Performance shingles (Class 4 impact resistance, 210 km/h wind rating) are our top recommendation for buildings in exposed locations. CertainTeed Landmark PRO shingles (MaxDef colour technology, 15-year algae resistance) offer outstanding aesthetics for retail and professional buildings. GAF Timberline HDZ shingles (StainGuard Plus, LayerLock technology) provide excellent value with industry-leading warranty coverage. For low-slope areas, we integrate SOPREMA flat roofing systems. We also coordinate skylight installation and skylight replacement as part of roof replacement projects.
How Universal Roofs Approaches Commercial Roof Replacement in Toronto
1. Assessment & Preparation
We safely strip the existing roof to the structural deck using controlled demolition methods, inspect every square foot of decking for moisture damage, rot, or structural compromise, and replace all deteriorated sheathing with matched OSB or plywood. We use enclosed debris chutes and ground-level dumpsters to contain waste, and tarps protect landscaping and building entrances throughout the tear-off process.
2. Design & Planning
Our project manager evaluates your building’s specific requirements — roof pitch, valley geometry, penetration locations, ventilation needs, and aesthetic preferences — to recommend the optimal roofing system. We calculate attic ventilation requirements (1:300 ratio per Ontario Building Code), design the ice protection strategy, specify underlayment type and coverage, and create a day-by-day project schedule. You receive a detailed proposal with material data sheets, colour samples, warranty comparisons, and transparent line-item pricing. Learn more about our approach.
3. Materials Selection
We use exclusively commercial-grade materials from IKO, CertainTeed, GAF, and SOPREMA. All shingles carry the CSA A123.5 wind resistance certification, all underlayments meet or exceed ASTM D226 standards, and all flashings are fabricated from .019 pre-painted aluminum or 24-gauge galvanized steel. Ice and water shield products exceed ASTM D1970 requirements. We source from authorized Canadian distributors only.
4. Installation & Craftsmanship
Our crews follow strict manufacturer installation protocols — correct nail placement (4 or 6 nails per shingle based on slope), proper offset patterns, accurate starter and hip/ridge installation, and precision flashing at every wall transition, pipe penetration, and roof-to-wall junction. We use pneumatic nailers calibrated daily, and every roof section is inspected before moving to the next area.
5. Quality Assurance
Every completed roof undergoes a 47-point quality inspection including shingle adhesion verification, flashing waterproofing tests, ventilation airflow measurement, and a comprehensive photo documentation package. We walk you through the finished installation, register all manufacturer warranties, and provide a maintenance guide specific to your roofing system. Contact us any time for warranty service or questions.
What You Can Expect From a Universal Roofs Commercial Replacement
Our commercial roof replacements deliver measurable results: complete leak elimination from day one, wind resistance rated to 210 km/h, ice dam prevention through proper ice shield and ventilation, enhanced curb appeal with premium architectural shingles, and comprehensive warranty coverage from 25 to 50 years depending on the system. Our commercial clients consistently report reduced maintenance costs, eliminated tenant complaints, and improved property valuations. Read what our clients say on our reviews page.
Premium Materials We Use for Commercial Roof Replacement
IKO Dynasty Performance architectural shingles (Class 4 impact), CertainTeed Landmark PRO MaxDef shingles, GAF Timberline HDZ shingles with LayerLock, Grace Ice & Water Shield self-adhering membrane, DuPont Tyvek Protec 160 synthetic underlayment, Lomanco Omni Ridge ventilation, Cobra Snow Country Advanced ridge vent, .019 aluminum drip edge (2×3 and 3×4 profiles), step flashing kits, and Geocel Tripolymer sealant.
Serving Commercial Properties Across the Greater Toronto Area
Universal Roofs provides commercial roof replacement services throughout Toronto and the surrounding GTA, including Scarborough, North York, Etobicoke, Mississauga, Vaughan, Markham, Richmond Hill, Brampton, and Oakville. We understand the specific building codes, permit processes, and inspection requirements in every municipality we serve. Our crews are familiar with the roofing challenges each area presents — from lake-effect snow in lakefront neighbourhoods to high-wind exposure on elevated properties.
Why Toronto Property Managers Choose Universal Roofs for Roof Replacement
Universal Roofs is the trusted choice for commercial roof replacement across the GTA. Our IKO Roofmaster, CertainTeed ShingleMaster, and GAF Certified Contractor designations mean your installation meets the highest industry standards. We carry $5 million in commercial general liability insurance and maintain full WSIB registration — critical requirements for commercial property managers.
What shingle brands do you install?
We are certified installers for IKO, CertainTeed, and GAF — the three top-tier North American roofing manufacturers. Each certification requires annual training, quality audits, and demonstrated installation excellence. This triple certification gives you maximum warranty options and material choices. See our full roofing services.
How do you handle tenant disruption during re-roofing?
We develop a detailed tenant communication plan for every multi-unit project. This includes advance notice schedules, phased work zones that limit noise exposure, designated safe access routes, and daily cleanup protocols. We schedule high-noise work during standard business hours only and maintain clean, hazard-free pathways to all entrances throughout the project.
Do you provide free estimates for commercial roofing?
Yes. We provide free, comprehensive estimates for all commercial roofing projects. Our proposals include detailed material specifications, warranty comparison charts, a day-by-day project schedule, insurance certificates, and fully transparent line-item pricing with no hidden fees. Request your free estimate.
Are your crews insured and WSIB registered?
Yes. All Universal Roofs crews carry full commercial general liability insurance ($5 million coverage) and are registered with the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB). We provide current certificates of insurance and WSIB clearance letters upon request, standard practice for every commercial project we undertake.
Universal Roofs provides professional commercial roof replacement services across the Greater Toronto Area, including full tear-off, re-decking, and premium shingle installation.
Common Questions About Commercial Roof Replacement in Toronto
How long does a commercial roof replacement take?
A typical commercial roof replacement takes 5 to 15 business days depending on building size (square footage), roof complexity (valleys, dormers, penetrations), and weather conditions. A 5,000 sq ft commercial building with straightforward geometry typically takes 5-7 days. Larger multi-section buildings may require 2-3 weeks with phased scheduling. We provide a detailed day-by-day timeline before work begins.
What is the best roofing material for commercial buildings in Toronto?
For steep-slope commercial roofs, we recommend IKO Dynasty for maximum impact and wind resistance, or CertainTeed Landmark PRO for superior aesthetics and algae resistance. For flat or low-slope sections, SOPREMA SBS modified bitumen offers the best long-term performance in Toronto's climate. Our roofing specialists will recommend the optimal system for your specific building.
Do you remove the old roof or install over it?
We always recommend and perform a complete tear-off and replacement. Overlay installations (installing over existing shingles) hide underlying deck damage, trap moisture, create uneven surfaces, add excessive weight, and void most manufacturer warranties. The small cost savings of an overlay are never worth the long-term risks. We only install on properly inspected and prepared substrate.
Do you handle permits and inspections?
Yes. We manage the complete permit process — from application submission through final inspection coordination — for every commercial project. This includes City of Toronto building permits, municipal permits in GTA jurisdictions, and any additional reviews required for heritage or designated properties. Permit fees are included in our pricing. Visit our FAQ page for more details.
Need Help?
- 416-732-2421
- info@universalroofs.ca
Ready to Start Your Roofing Project?
Get a free, no-obligation quote from our expert team. We serve the entire Greater Toronto Area.