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Empire Roofing Recognized Among Top Roofing Contractors in North America with Multiple 2026 Elevate Awards

Empire Roofing Corporation is proud to announce that we have been recognized by Elevate Commercial Roofing Systems with five of the manufacturer’s highest contractor honours for 2026, placing our team among the top-performing commercial roofing contractors in North America.

These awards represent one of the highest levels of recognition within Elevate’s contractor network and reflect the dedication, craftsmanship, and professionalism of the people behind every Empire project.

2026 Elevate Contractor Awards

Empire Roofing was recognized with the following honours:

🏆 Master Contractor Award
🏆 President’s Club Award (Top 1% of Elevate contractors across North America)
🏆 Inner Circle of Quality Award
🏆 Best of the Best Award
🏆 Excellence Award in Sustainability (2025)

These awards are not simply based on nominations or individual projects. Elevate evaluates contractors across North America using a rigorous set of performance criteria, including:

  • Installation quality
  • Warranty performance
  • Inspection scores
  • Long-term roofing system performance
  • Total square footage of Elevate roofing systems installed and maintained under warranty

To earn these recognitions, contractors must consistently demonstrate excellence across large-scale commercial and industrial roofing projects.

The President’s Club Award, in particular, places Empire Roofing among the top 1% of Elevate contractors across North America, highlighting the company’s continued leadership in delivering high-performance roofing systems.

Built by Our People

At Empire Roofing, these awards represent something bigger than the projects themselves — they reflect the people behind the work.

From estimating and project management to field crews installing roofing systems in every season, and service teams responding to urgent leak calls, every part of the organization contributes to delivering the high standards required to earn these honours.

Empire Roofing has also previously been inducted into the Elevate Hall of Fame, recognizing years of consistent performance and leadership within the manufacturer’s contractor network.

Accepting the Awards on Behalf of the Team

The 2026 awards were accepted on behalf of Empire Roofing by Nada Tayar, who attended the Elevate contractor recognition event alongside Sam Digirolamo from Empire’s Procon division, representing the broader Empire family of companies.

“It was an honour to accept these awards on behalf of our entire team. They represent the professionalism, teamwork, and pride that our people bring to every project we take on.” – Nada Tayar

More photos from the Elevate awards ceremony will be shared soon.

Elevate’s official announcement of the 2026 contractor awards can be viewed here:
https://www.elevatecommercialbp.com/us-en/news/elevate-announces-2026-master-contractor-award-recipients

Why These Awards Matter

Earning these recognitions requires sustained performance across millions of square feet of installed roofing systems and a long-term commitment to installation excellence.

For example, contractors recognized within Elevate’s Inner Circle of Quality must install at least 40 warranted Elevate roofing systems over the last five years, while maintaining a minimum of two million square feet of Elevate roofs under warranty and achieving strong inspection ratings.

To achieve Best of the Best status, contractors must go even further — maintaining at least five million square feet of Elevate roofing systems under active warranty, earning the Master Contractor and Inner Circle of Quality awards multiple times, and maintaining an exceptionally low Quality Impact Rating (QIR), which measures installation quality and long-term system performance.

These standards place Empire Roofing among a very small group of contractors recognized for consistent excellence in commercial roofing installation and long-term system performance across North America.

Recognized for Community Impact

Empire Roofing’s partnership with Elevate extends beyond the jobsite.

Recently, Empire Roofing was also recognized alongside Elevate for its contribution to Windsor’s Safety Village, a community initiative focused on teaching young people about safety and injury prevention.

The project highlights Empire’s ongoing commitment to supporting the communities where we work while promoting safety awareness and education.

Industry coverage of the recognition can be viewed here:
https://www.roofingcontractor.com/articles/101211-elevate-celebrates-top-roofing-projects-across-north-america

Looking Ahead

As the commercial roofing industry continues to evolve, Empire Roofing remains focused on delivering the highest standards of installation quality, service, and long-term roofing system performance.

These recognitions from Elevate are a reflection of the trust placed in our team by building owners, developers, and partners across North America — and a reminder that the work we do every day matters.

We are incredibly proud of our team and grateful to everyone who contributes to the success of Empire Roofing.

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May Bchouti Named Canada’s Top Women in Safety 2026

As organizations across the world recognize International Women’s Day, Empire Roofing Corporation is proud to celebrate a major milestone within our leadership team.

May Bchouti, CFO & Director of Safety at Empire Roofing Corporation, has been named one of Canada’s Top Women in Safety for 2026 by Canadian Occupational Safety.

The national recognition highlights women who are making a meaningful impact advancing workplace safety, strengthening safety culture, and protecting workers across industries throughout Canada.

For the Empire team, this recognition carries special meaning. This year also marks May’s 32nd anniversary with the Windsor-based company, where she has played a pivotal role in shaping both the company’s growth and the safety culture that defines the organization today.

A Leader in Safety and Business

Throughout her career, May has built a reputation for combining financial leadership with a deep commitment to worker safety.

After joining Empire Roofing in 1994, she progressed from Financial Controller to her current role as Chief Financial Officer and Director of Safety. In that dual leadership position, she oversees the company’s financial strategy while also guiding the systems, programs, and culture that support safety across the organization.

Her leadership philosophy is simple but powerful: safety must be embedded into every level of decision-making.

Rather than treating safety as a compliance requirement, May has worked to ensure that it is a core value integrated into how the company operates every day — from leadership decisions to jobsite practices.

That mindset has helped shape one of the strongest safety cultures in the commercial roofing industry.

Building a Culture of Safety at Empire Roofing

Commercial and industrial roofing presents unique challenges, requiring teams to work at height, manage complex materials, and navigate constantly changing jobsite conditions.

Under May’s leadership, Empire Roofing has taken a proactive approach to safety — investing in training, systems, and leadership initiatives that prioritize protecting workers while delivering high-quality roofing solutions for clients.

One of the most visible examples of this commitment is Empire’s annual Safety Fest.

Each year, teams across Empire’s locations pause operations for a full day dedicated entirely to safety education and engagement. Crews participate in hands-on demonstrations, training sessions, and discussions focused on improving jobsite safety and strengthening the company’s safety-first mindset.

Safety Fest has become an important tradition within the organization and reflects a belief that safety culture grows strongest when teams learn together and share responsibility for protecting one another.

Recognizing Leadership in Safety

The Top Women in Safety 2026 award, presented by Canadian Occupational Safety, recognizes women who are shaping the future of workplace safety through leadership, innovation, and advocacy.

The award celebrates leaders who are making a measurable difference by improving safety standards, mentoring the next generation of professionals, and strengthening safety cultures across their organizations.

For May, the recognition reflects decades of dedication to building systems and teams that prioritize people.

“When I started in construction more than three decades ago, women in leadership — especially in safety — were rare,” says Bchouti.
“I’ve always believed that safety is not a department, it’s a responsibility. Building a culture where people look out for one another is the most important work we can do.”

Her approach emphasizes leadership accountability, continuous improvement, and empowering workers to take ownership of safety.

These principles have helped shape a culture where safety is not just a rule — it is a shared commitment across every level of the organization.

Leadership That Inspires Others

May’s influence extends beyond internal programs and initiatives.

Throughout her career, she has been a strong advocate for encouraging more women to pursue careers in industries where they have historically been underrepresented, including construction and safety leadership.

By mentoring colleagues and sharing her experience, she continues to inspire the next generation of professionals entering the field.

Her journey demonstrates that leadership in safety is not defined by job titles or policies alone, but by the ability to build trust, accountability, and collaboration within teams.

A Recognition Shared by the Empire Team

While the award recognizes May’s individual leadership, she is quick to credit the people around her.

“Being recognized among Canada’s Top Women in Safety is incredibly meaningful,” she says.
“But it reflects the commitment of the teams who live these values every day. Safety only works when everyone believes in it.”

For Ken Gascoigne, President of Empire Roofing Corporation, May’s contributions have had a lasting impact on the organization.

“May has played a pivotal role in shaping the leadership and success of Empire Roofing,” said Ken Gascoigne, President of Empire Roofing Corporation. “For 32 years she has helped mold this company — not only through financial management, but through her commitment to protecting the people who work here. This national recognition is incredibly well deserved.”

Continuing to Build the Future of Safety

As the commercial roofing industry continues to evolve, the importance of strong safety leadership has never been greater.

Through initiatives like Safety Fest, ongoing training programs, and leadership development across the organization, Empire Roofing remains committed to strengthening the safety culture that protects its teams and supports its clients.

For May Bchouti, the recognition as one of Canada’s Top Women in Safety 2026 represents an important milestone — but the mission remains the same.

To ensure that every worker returns home safely at the end of the day.

Learn More

Read more about the Top Women in Safety 2026 recognition:

https://premium.thesafetymag.com/ca-cos-top-women-in-safety-2026-may-bchouti/p/1

Canadian Occupational Safety announcement:

https://www.thesafetymag.com/ca/news/general/cos-unveils-2026-top-women-in-safety/547340

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Why So Many Commercial Projects Choose TPO Roofing

When you’re responsible for a commercial or industrial building, the roof isn’t just a line item — it’s a long-term investment that directly impacts performance, operating costs, and risk. That’s why TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) has become one of the most widely specified roofing systems across North America.

TPO is a single-ply roofing membrane known for its balance of durability, efficiency, and straightforward installation. It delivers reliable protection without unnecessary complexity, making it a strong fit for large facilities, distribution centres, manufacturing plants, and multi-building portfolios.

Built for Performance at Scale

One of the key reasons TPO is trusted on commercial projects is its heat-welded seam system. Instead of relying on adhesives or mechanical overlaps alone, the seams are fused together using heat, creating a continuous, integrated roofing surface. This reduces the risk of water infiltration and helps maintain long-term integrity across wide roof spans.

For facility managers and owners, this translates to fewer unexpected issues and a roof system that performs predictably year after year. For developers and general contractors, it means consistency, reliability, and confidence in the finished product.

Energy Efficiency That Supports Operating Costs

TPO membranes are typically manufactured in a bright, reflective white finish. This helps reduce heat absorption, which can lower rooftop temperatures and reduce the load on HVAC systems. Over time, this can contribute to improved energy efficiency and more stable indoor conditions — especially in large, open facilities.

While no roofing system is a one-size-fits-all solution, TPO is often chosen because it supports operational efficiency without introducing unnecessary complexity into the building envelope.

A Practical Choice for Construction Schedules

On large commercial builds, efficiency matters — not just in materials, but in installation. TPO’s lightweight design and clean installation process make it well-suited for projects where coordination, sequencing, and timelines are critical.

📸 Our team is shown here installing a TPO roofing system at Z Modular, a project where quality, coordination, and schedule all mattered.

When installed by an experienced commercial roofing contractor, TPO allows projects to move forward smoothly while meeting performance expectations.

Experience Matters

Like any commercial roofing system, the long-term success of TPO depends on proper design, detailing, and installation. Material selection is only one part of the equation — experience, planning, and execution make the difference.

At Empire Roofing, we work closely with owners, facility teams, developers, and general contractors to ensure the roofing system aligns with the building’s function, budget, and long-term goals.

Got questions about our commercial roofing systems? Contact us at sales@empireroofing.ca

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24/7 Emergency Roof Repair for Commercial & Industrial Properties

When it comes to your building’s roof, emergencies don’t wait for business hours. Storms, high winds, heavy rain, and unexpected damage can happen any time threatening your operations, your assets, and your bottom line.

At Empire Roofing, we know that every minute counts in an emergency. That’s why our trained crews are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to respond to urgent repairs for commercial, institutional, and industrial properties.

Why Rapid Response Matters

Roof damage can escalate quickly. What starts as a small puncture or seam failure can turn into a major leak—soaking insulation, damaging equipment, and forcing operations to a halt.

A fast, professional response helps:

  • Minimize downtime and operational disruptions
  • Prevent costly water and structural damage
  • Keep your people, products, and property safe

Our 2–4 hour response  ensures help is on the way when you need it most.

Our Emergency Repair Process

When you call Empire Roofing for an emergency repair, here’s what you can expect:

  • Immediate Dispatch – We mobilize a qualified repair crew to your site, fully equipped to handle urgent situations.
  • On-Site Assessment – We quickly identify the source and extent of the damage.
  • Temporary Protection – We secure the area to prevent further water intrusion or damage.
  • Permanent Repairs – Once the immediate threat is contained, we work with you to schedule a full repair that meets manufacturer specifications and maintains warranty coverage.
  • Detailed Documentation – You’ll receive photos and a report outlining the damage, repairs made, and any recommendations for preventative measures.

Prepared for Any Situation

Our team is trained and certified to work on a variety of flat roofing systems, including:

  • TPO & PVC Membranes
  • EPDM Rubber Roofs
  • Modified Bitumen Systems
  • Metal Roofing
  • Green Roofs & Specialty Systems

Whether it’s storm damage, aging materials, or accidental impact, we have the expertise to act fast and fix it right.

Why Businesses Trust Empire Roofing in an Emergency

  • 24/7 Availability – Day or night, weekends, and holidays.
  • Safety First – We follow strict safety protocols to protect our team and your property.
  • Experienced Crews – Skilled in both emergency response and long-term repair solutions.
  • Proven Track Record – Serving clients across Canada and the U.S. for over 90 years.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

Roof emergencies can’t be ignored—and with Empire Roofing, they don’t have to be. Our commitment to fast response, quality repairs, and client safety means you have a partner ready whenever you need us most.

📞 Call us now at 519-969-7101
📧 Email hr@empireroofing.ca
🌐 Learn more at empireroofingcorporation.com

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How Empire Prepares for Roofing Projects Coast to Coast

As Empire Roofing continues to deliver top-tier commercial, industrial, and institutional roofing across the country, our crews are often deployed from one end of Canada to the other. While our teams are well-versed in working coast to coast, each province comes with its own set of safety standards, climate challenges, and jobsite logistics.
As we gear up for a new project in Saskatchewan, here’s a behind-the-scenes look at how we prepare to meet regional requirements and maintain our commitment to safety and efficiency—no matter the location.
Adapting to Provincial Safety Standards
Each province in Canada has its own Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) legislation, and Saskatchewan is no exception. Before we arrive onsite, our team reviews the provincial OHS Act and Regulations to ensure full compliance. This includes site-specific fall protection requirements, daily inspection protocols, and even high-visibility clothing mandates that may differ from Ontario or Quebec.
At Empire, we go above and beyond basic compliance—we train our teams to anticipate these differences, so we prevent delays and prioritize safety from day one.
Preparing for Prairie Weather
Roofing in Saskatchewan means preparing for dry, hot summers and unpredictable weather shifts. Unlike the humid heat we’re used to in Southern Ontario, Saskatchewan’s dry heat increases the risk of dehydration and heat stress—often without the usual warning signs. Strong wind gusts are also a common concern on the open Prairies, making rooftop safety and material handling a top priority.Our team always creates a Plan A and Plan B based on weather forecasts and builds additional safety protocols for heat advisories, air quality alerts, and storm warnings. Safety planning isn’t just a requirement—it’s built into our daily operations.
Logistics Matter—Especially in Remote Areas
Many Saskatchewan projects are located outside major city centers, which means longer lead times for material delivery, limited access to rentals, and fewer supply options. We ship backup materials, extra safety gear, and tools in advance to avoid costly delays and ensure our crews are equipped for anything.
We also coordinate site mobilization details before arrival—everything from fencing and signage to equipment storage and municipal permits is handled ahead of time to keep things moving.
Interprovincial Compliance
When operating outside of Ontario, we ensure all Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) requirements are met in the host province. This means obtaining necessary clearances, understanding reporting procedures for workplace injuries, and maintaining proper insurance and documentation for our crews.
Our administrative and safety teams work closely together to manage these details so our project teams can stay focused on delivering quality work safely and efficiently.
Aligning Crews, Culture, and Communication
Empire often works with local subcontractors and suppliers on out-of-province projects, and we take the time to align everyone with our expectations. Before the first tool hits the roof, we conduct site-specific safety orientations and clarify roles, responsibilities, and reporting chains.Whether it's a site supervisor, foreman, or new team member—everyone is expected to uphold Empire’s safety culture and high standards.
At Empire Roofing, being coast-to-coast capable means more than just travel—it means planning, training, and anticipating everything we need to keep our projects safe, smooth, and successful.
Stay tuned for more project highlights from across Canada!
Interested in working with us? Contact our team at sales@empireroofing.ca
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Summer Flat Roof Maintenance Checklist for Commercial Properties

Summer might seem like the season when your flat roof gets a break—but in reality, it’s one of the most important times for inspections and maintenance. Heat, UV exposure, and sudden summer storms can all take a toll on your roofing system.
For commercial property owners and facility managers, following a seasonal checklist helps extend roof life, reduce costly repairs, and ensure your building is ready for the months ahead.Here’s our summer flat roof maintenance checklist to keep your investment in top shape.

1. Inspect for Heat & UV Damage

Why it matters: Extended exposure to high temperatures and direct sunlight can cause membranes to crack, blister, or shrink—especially on older systems. Key steps to address this:
  • Have a qualified roofing professional assess for visible cracks, bubbles, or discoloration.
  • Pay extra attention to south- and west-facing areas where sun exposure is strongest.
  • Complete repairs promptly to prevent further deterioration.

2. Check for Ponding Water After Storms

Why it matters: Even in summer, heavy downpours can create pooling water, which accelerates wear and may indicate drainage issues. Key steps to address this:
  • Arrange post-storm inspections to identify areas where water lingers.
  • Ensure drains and scuppers are clear to restore proper flow.
  • Consider adding tapered insulation in low spots if ponding is recurring.

3. Examine Flashing & Seals

Why it matters: Flashing protects roof edges, penetrations, and transition points. Summer heat can cause sealant to dry out and crack. Key steps to address this:
  • Have all flashing inspected for gaps, lifting, or brittle sealant.
  • Reseal or replace damaged sections before leaks occur.
  • Confirm any work aligns with manufacturer specifications to maintain warranties.

4. Clear Drains, Gutters & Scuppers

Why it matters: Leaves, twigs, and debris can block drainage systems, leading to ponding or overflow damage during summer storms. Key steps to address this:
  • Remove debris from drainage systems to ensure free water flow.
  • Install strainers or guards to help reduce clogs.
  • Incorporate drain cleaning into routine maintenance.

5. Look for Signs of Foot Traffic Damage

Why it matters: HVAC servicing and other rooftop work often happen in summer—putting added stress on the membrane. Key steps to address this:
  • Inspect for punctures, scuffs, or torn seams in areas where work has been performed.
  • Install walkway pads in high-traffic zones.
  • Reinforce roof protection protocols with any contractors working on-site.

6. Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection

Why it matters: A professional can spot issues you might miss, use infrared scans to detect hidden moisture, and recommend cost-effective repairs. Key steps to address this:
  • Schedule at least one professional inspection during summer.
  • Request a detailed report with photos for documentation.
  • Use findings to plan preventative maintenance before fall.

Protect Your Roof Year-Round

Summer is the perfect time to address small problems before they become costly repairs. With Empire Roofing’s Preventative Maintenance Program and 2–4 hour Emergency Response, you can keep your flat roof in peak condition and avoid operational disruptions.   📞 Schedule your summer flat roof inspection today and keep your property protected. 🔗 sales@empireroofing.ca  |  1-844-547-7663
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Project Spotlight: Maverick Business Centre, Markham ON

Project Spotlight: Maverick Business Centre, Markham ON
An Empire Roofing + Cecchini Group Collaboration

When it comes to high-performance roofing for modern industrial spaces, every detail matters—and our latest project with Cecchini Group Inc. is a prime example. We’re proud to spotlight the Maverick Business Centre in Markham, Ontario, where our team installed a robust and energy-efficient TPO roofing system across two brand-new buildings totaling over 135,000 sq. ft.

From day one, this project was built on precision, performance, and partnership.

Project Highlights:

  • System Type – 60 mil TPO, mechanically fastened for long-term durability

  • Insulation: Two layers of 3” polyisocyanurate insulation (R-34.8) plus custom tapered insulation for superior thermal performance and drainage

  • Walkways – Over 1,100 linear feet of TPO membrane walkways were installed to enhance rooftop accessibility and safety

  • Skylights & Penetrations – Each building features 12 skylights, plus expertly flashed curbs, drains, and scuppers for watertight reliability

  • Warranty – 20-year Elevate system warranty + 5-year workmanship and sheet metal warranty

  • Execution – Delivered with full compliance to manufacturer guidelines and site-specific safety protocols

This roofing system not only meets the performance needs of today’s industrial tenants—it also adds long-term value for the property owner by maximizing energy efficiency and minimizing maintenance.

Built to Last

Quality assurance was front and center throughout the process. As a certified and licensed Elevate applicator, Empire Roofing ensured all work was completed by experienced professionals under continuous supervision and subject to inspections. The result? A watertight, warrantied system designed to withstand the elements for 20+ years.

Stronger Together

We’d like to extend a huge thank-you to Cecchini Group Inc. for their collaboration on this milestone build. Their team was fantastic to work with and shared our vision for quality, efficiency, and attention to detail from start to finish.

🎥 Watch the project video to see the installation process and finished rooftop in action.

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Extending Roof Life Between Re-Roof Cycles

Empire + Elevate TPO Roofing

Extending Roof Life Between Re-Roof Cycles: What Every Facility Manager Should Know

Re-roofing is inevitable—but it doesn’t have to come as a surprise.

For property owners and facility managers, the key to managing roofing costs lies in one strategy: prolonging the life of your current roofing system through proactive care, expert guidance, and strategic upgrades.

At Empire Roofing, we work with commercial, industrial, and institutional clients across North America to help them do just that.

Why Extend Your Roof’s Life?

Postponing a complete re-roof can free up capital for other upgrades, prevent business disruption, and minimize costly emergency repairs. With proper maintenance, many flat roofing systems—TPO, EPDM, modified bitumen, and others—can perform well past their manufacturer’s baseline lifespan.

Here’s how to make that happen:

1. Schedule Routine Inspections

Your roof is your building’s first line of defense, but it’s also out of sight—which means issues can go unnoticed until it’s too late. Empire’s 100-point inspections are designed to spot vulnerabilities early, from membrane cracks to blocked drains and deteriorated flashing.

By catching problems early, you avoid damage to insulation, interior systems, and valuable assets.

2. Perform Preventative Maintenance

Small fixes make a big difference. Our Preventative Maintenance Program includes:

– Minor membrane repairs
– Seam resealing
– Drain clearing
– Debris removal
– Penetration checks

This approach not only keeps your roof watertight—it keeps your manufacturer’s warranty compliant too.

3. Invest in Thermal Drone Scanning

Thermal Drone Scan by Empire Roofing

Not all damage is visible to the eye. Our thermal drone inspections detect trapped moisture and insulation breakdown without disrupting operations. These scans give you a full picture of your roof’s performance—and help you budget for upgrades before a leak forces your hand.

4. Align Maintenance With Your Operations

We know that for many clients—especially in healthcare and manufacturing—downtime is not an option. That’s why we work with your team to schedule inspections and repairs around your production or care schedules, minimizing risk and disruption.

5. Consider Targeted Upgrades

If parts of your roof are nearing the end of their life, but the full system doesn’t need to be replaced yet, partial re-roofing or overlay systems can buy time while still improving performance.

Upgrades like switching from aging bitumen to reflective TPO can also cut cooling costs and increase energy efficiency.

Case in Point: Extending Roof Life at a Retirement Home

When a major retirement facility reached out to Empire, their roof was showing signs of age—but a full replacement wasn’t financially or logistically feasible that year. Our team:

  • Performed thermal scans to identify moisture infiltration
  • Conducted spot repairs to damaged areas
  • Installed temporary protective coating to high-risk zones
  • Created a phased re-roofing plan for the next 18 months

The result? Zero business disruption, no active leaks, and a long-term capital plan built on real-time data.

EMPIRE + CHARTWELL

Ready to Extend Your Roof’s Lifespan?

Whether you manage a retail plaza, warehouse, school, or hospital, Empire can help you reduce risk and delay costly re-roofing through smart, strategic maintenance.

📩 Book your inspection today: service@empireroofing.ca
📞 Call us: 1-844-547-7663