If you own a business or a commercial property, you know that protecting your roof means protecting your business. It is important to remember that your roof is an investment, so if replacement is needed, it is worth it. The roof is one of the most important, and also one of the most expensive, components of any building.
In this blog, we’ll discuss the factors that impact the cost of commercial roof replacement.
Understanding the Importance of a Commercial Roof Replacement
Whether you’re constructing a new commercial building or looking to replace the roof on the same one, remember that the one you select will affect the property for years.
Commercial roofs are quite different than their residential counterparts. They’re much more expansive regarding techniques, options, and roof maintenance.
The commercial roof replacement process is different from that of residential roof replacement. Commercial roofs are typically lower sloped or flat and are usually much larger than residential homes, meaning a much larger roof design and different roofing needs.
However, even the most well-maintained roofs will deteriorate and require replacement. Understanding the importance of a commercial roof replacement is essential for business owners to ensure their properties’ safety, functionality, and longevity.
Factors That Affect The Cost of Commercial Roof Replacement
Because commercial roofing systems are so complex, many factors can impact the cost of replacing your business’s roof.
Types of Roofing
Asphalt Roofs($3.50 to $7 per square foot)
Asphalt roofs are one of the most common types of commercial roofing systems. They are known for their durability, cost-effectiveness, and ease of installation. Asphalt roofs consist of multiple layers of asphalt and fiberglass or organic materials.
They are available in various styles, including built-up roofs (BUR) and asphalt shingles. BUR roofs comprise multiple layers of asphalt and reinforcing fabrics, providing excellent waterproofing and protection against UV rays.
On the other hand, asphalt shingles offer a more lightweight and versatile option, suitable for a range of commercial buildings.
Cement and Clay Tile Roofing($9 to $20 per square foot)
Cement and clay tile roofing systems are known for their aesthetic appeal, longevity, and resistance to fire and extreme weather conditions.
These roofing materials are available in various shapes, such as flat, curved, or interlocking, offering versatility in design options. Cement and clay tiles are durable, low-maintenance, and withstand harsh climates.
They provide excellent thermal insulation and can help reduce energy consumption.
Metal Roofs($7 to $15 per square foot)
Metal roofs are another popular choice for commercial buildings. They offer exceptional durability, longevity, and resistance to fire, wind, and impact.
Metal roofs are typically made from steel, aluminum, or copper and come in various styles, including standing seam, corrugated panels, and metal tiles.
Metal roofs are lightweight, making them suitable for a wide range of structures, and they are often favored for their energy efficiency. They reflect sunlight, reducing heat transfer and lowering cooling costs.
Duro-Last PVC Flat Roofs($3 to $5 per square foot)
Duro-Last PVC roofing systems consist of a flexible, thermoplastic PVC membrane that is custom-fabricated to fit each roof’s specific dimensions and requirements.
The membrane is manufactured in a controlled factory environment, ensuring precise measurements and high-quality production.
The pre-fabricated nature of Duro-Last roofing systems reduces the need for on-site cutting and welding, resulting in faster and more efficient installations.
The Roof Structure
The angles of commercial roofs typically fall into two categories:
- Flat or low-slope
- Sloped or pitched
Flat roofs are typical for commercial buildings. While flat roofs appear, technically, they aren’t entirely flat. Most flat roofs have a slight slope pushing precipitation toward the gutter system.
Sloped roofs are roofs with a peak. This angle is more common in residential homes but appears on some commercial buildings.
Regarding price, commercial flat roofs typically cost less to replace than sloped roofs. Flat roofs are more manageable and safer for contractors to navigate, considering they don’t have to balance on a steep structure.
Size of The Roof
The larger your roof, the more expensive it will be to replace. However, the cost per square foot may decrease depending on your material and roof style, offering savings for larger roofing systems. Other size factors that influence the cost of a commercial roof include:
- Cost of removing the old roof and debris.
- Transportation costs of materials. This generally runs up to 2-3% of total project costs.
- Logistics of moving the material to the roof.
Permits and Codes
If your roof requires special permits, this will add additional time for installation and cost to your estimate. The local, regional, and state code requirements that your building may be subject to will impact everything from insulation and substrate to ventilation and slope.
Depending on where your building is located, weather and local codes will affect the type of fasteners your roof system requires.
Financing Options to Fund A Commercial Roof Replacement
Commercial roof replacements can be a significant investment for building owners and businesses. Fortunately, there are various financing options available to help fund these projects.
Business Loans
Many financial institutions offer business loans specifically designed for commercial roof replacements. These loans provide a lump sum upfront, which can be used to cover the project’s costs.
It’s important to compare interest rates, repayment terms, and eligibility requirements from different lenders to find the most favorable loan option.
Roofing Manufacturer Financing
Some roofing manufacturers collaborate with financing companies to provide specialized financing options. These programs may offer competitive rates, flexible repayment terms, and promotional offers.
Working with a manufacturer-approved financing program can streamline the process and provide additional benefits.
Energy-Efficiency Incentives
Energy-efficiency incentives or rebates may be available depending on the location and type of roofing system chosen. These incentives encourage installing energy-efficient roofing systems that reduce energy consumption and environmental impact.
Research local or regional programs to determine if there are grants, tax credits, or other financial incentives that can offset the cost of a commercial roof replacement.
Lease or Rental Programs
Some companies offer lease or rental programs for commercial roofing systems. Instead of purchasing the roof outright, building owners can agree to lease the roofing system for a fixed period.
This option may be particularly beneficial for businesses looking to conserve capital or those with shorter lease terms.
Benefits of Commercial Roof Replacement
Commercial roof replacement offers several benefits for building owners and businesses. Here are some key advantages:
Enhanced Protection
One of the primary benefits of commercial roof replacement is improved protection for the building, its contents, and its occupants.
A new roof with modern materials and construction techniques provides better resistance against leaks, water damage, and weather elements such as rain, snow, and wind.
It helps maintain a watertight and secure building envelope, reducing the risk of structural damage and protecting valuable assets.
Extended Lifespan
Over time, commercial roofs deteriorate and become less effective at providing protection. By replacing an aging roof with a new one, the building owner can significantly extend the lifespan of the roof.
New roofing materials are designed to be more durable, long-lasting, and resistant to wear and tear, ensuring that the roof will perform optimally for many years.
Energy Efficiency
Upgrading to a new commercial roof presents an opportunity to improve energy efficiency. Many modern roofing systems are designed with energy-saving features, such as reflective coatings, insulation, and advanced ventilation systems.
These features help reduce heat transfer, improve insulation, and minimize the need for excessive heating or cooling. A commercial roof replacement can significantly save utility bills over time by improving energy efficiency.
Enhanced Aesthetics
A new commercial roof can transform the appearance of a building and enhance its curb appeal. An outdated or worn-out roof can detract from the property’s aesthetic appeal.
A roof replacement allows building owners to choose from various roofing materials, colors, and styles to create a visually appealing, modern look that aligns with their branding or architectural vision.
Increased Property Value
A well-maintained, modern roof adds value to a commercial property. Prospective buyers or tenants are more likely to be attracted to a building with a new roof that offers improved protection, energy efficiency, and aesthetics.
A commercial roof replacement can enhance the property’s marketability and potentially increase its resale or rental value.
Peace of Mind
Knowing that a building has a new, reliable roof brings peace of mind to the building owner and occupants.
A commercial roof replacement eliminates the worry and stress associated with an aging roof, reducing the likelihood of unexpected leaks, repairs, or disruptions in business operations.
It provides reassurance that the building is adequately protected and can withstand the challenges of the environment.
Strategies to Extend the Lifespan of A Roof
Investing in a new commercial roof replacement is a significant endeavor, and it’s essential to protect that investment by implementing proper maintenance strategies.
Here are some strategies to extend the lifespan of your new roof.
- Establish a routine inspection schedule to identify any signs of damage, leaks, or deterioration. Inspections should be conducted at least twice a year, preferably in the spring and fall, after severe weather events.
- Implement a proactive maintenance plan that includes regular cleaning, gutter maintenance, and removing debris from the roof surface. Repairs of a roof should be conducted as soon as they are detected to prevent small issues from escalating into more significant problems.
- A roof coating can provide additional protection and extend the roof’s lifespan. Coatings can help improve the roof’s resistance to UV rays, reduce heat transfer, and enhance waterproofing.
- Proper water drainage is crucial for the longevity of a commercial roof. Ensure that gutters downspouts, and drainage systems are clear of debris and functioning effectively.
- Consider entering into a maintenance contract with a professional roofing company. These contracts often include regular inspections, maintenance, and repairs experienced professionals perform.
Why Choose Evoli Roofing
When it comes to your roofing needs, Evoli Roofing should be your top choice in DC, Maryland, and Virginia.
With a team of highly skilled professionals and years of experience in the industry, we have the expertise to handle any roofing project. We are committed to using only the highest quality materials to ensure that your roof is built to last.
Our reputation for reliability is unmatched, as we consistently deliver projects on time and within budget. Customer satisfaction is our priority, and we strive to exceed your expectations at every step.
As a licensed and insured roofing company, we prioritize your peace of mind. Trust Evoli Roofing for a roofing experience that combines expertise, quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction.
