It’s important to accurately gauge if your building needs a new roof. Commercial roofs are designed to endure. However, if you notice water stains along the ceilings and walls, mold or missing shingles, these cues must be addressed.

Indications of roof issues also include worn roof covers, flaws in the roofing seams, bubbles along the roof cover and gaps in roof flashing. The commercial roof’s age and resulting gradual wear must also be taken into account.

Roofing options can be extensive. Common types of roofing systems available in the current market include built-up roofing (roof layers are built up and bonded together); tapered insulation roofing systems (prevents standing water and is ideal for flat roofs without adequate slope); TPO roofs (are fire-resistant, flexible and extremely durable); and single-ply roofing (delivers exceptional weatherability over the long term).

Green businesses, especially, are more likely to be keen on using an energy-efficient roofing system. Property managers may even be required to ensure their roof meets ENERGY STAR criteria. Energy-efficient roofs, like reflective roof systems, make it easier to save expenses. Increasing insulation in the roofing system is an alternate method to help meet energy goals.

The cost of a total roof replacement is based on several variables. The most obvious size factor is the size of the roof; the more square feet involved, the higher the labor and cost of materials to complete the replacement will be. If objects protrude out of your roof, additional expenses will be needed to cut around these protrusions and seal the areas. A building’s location can impact the cost as well, especially if numerous permits are required.

Overall, a roof replacement can be estimated to cost $2.50 to $5 per square foot for a built-up roof that features alternating layers of roofing materials, like tar or bitumen, waterproofing materials and roofing felt.

A single-ply roof, often lasting 20 to 30 years (depending on weather conditions) with its single layer, ranges from $3 to $4 per square foot.

A sheet metal roof, featuring interlocking panels of metal, steel or aluminum, averages $5 to $10 per square foot and is the most expensive choice of roofing material on the market.

Roof types differ. Retail businesses, shopping centers or hospitals, for instance, have different roofing needs than warehouse facilities.

Warehouse Roofing

A warehouse unit requires a solid roof that will withstand seasons of inclement weather and that will protect the mass quantities of valuable goods housed inside.

Companies rely on warehouses to safely store equipment, supplies, and products relevant to the business. As a result, a reliable roof is critical to prevent damage and costly losses.

Retail Building Roofing

A retail building’s roofing system requires a different type of commercial roof. A solid, leak-free roof is important. However, depending on the type of business, wear and tear to the roof is expected.

Exhaust that springs from restaurant buildings, for example, deteriorates the roof over time. Chemicals from dry cleaning companies also impact the roof. A retail business roof should also provide an atmosphere that exudes comfort for customers and employees.