Variables That Affect Commercial Roof Cost
When it comes time to repair or replace your commercial roof, a major factor to consider is cost. And for good reason, as such a project can be extremely expensive. So, as you are budgeting and planning, keep these variables in mind, as they can affect your commercial roof cost.
Complexity of Project
A straightforward and typical roof re-cover without a tear-off of the old roof will be much less expensive than a project that requires a tear-off, new insulation, replacement of edge details, etc. If there has been water damage to your structure or if mold has developed from water penetration (problems usually not solved by a roofing contractor), remediation of those issues will add significantly to the price.
Level of Professional Expertise
You get what you pay for, as the saying goes. When you buy a roof, you’re also buying the expertise it takes to install it. Your contractor’s level of experience can make the difference between an installation that will last for years, or one you’ll soon have problems with. If your roof is complex – say, with lots of penetrations – you should look for a roofer with plenty of experience in making them watertight.
Type of Material Used
Less expensive products may save you money in the short run, but may not be durable enough to provide long-term, watertight protection. For example, spray coatings are inexpensive, but are really only a stop-gap; they wear away and your roof issues will still be there. Some lower-cost membrane materials don’t handle extreme sun exposure very well and deteriorate quickly. Choose the type that will offer you the best durability over time and that best suits the unique needs of your roof and climate.
Size and configuration of roof
A large roof may cost more than a small roof, but the per-square-foot price is may be more determined by the number of penetrations that have to be handled than the roof size. Curbs, stacks and other penetrations require both more material and more labor. Some commercial roof manufacturers offer prefabricated flashings to help mitigate labor costs and cut down on scrap.
Number of buildings
If you have multiple commercial building locations, you might be able to “batch” projects to cut down on costs. That is, a commercial roofing company might offer a discounted price if you replace several buildings’ roof systems more-or-less concurrently.
Take the time to consider all of these important variables when analyzing your upcoming roofing project, and you will be preparing yourself for budgeting success and a project that goes smoothly.