How to cut commercial roof costs in half
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Commercial roofing systems are one of your highest-value building assets. It’s a significant investment, and it performs a critical role in protecting the commercial building itself, as well as the people, equipment and inventory inside. To perform, it must resist harsh outdoor elements, withstand accidental damage from contractors, and defend against trees, animals and foreign debris.
Even given all that, however, a commercial roof is often out of sight, out of mind…until it leaks.
A roof leak can disrupt operations and create significant costs. Worse, a leak might be a symptom of a much bigger problem that catches you by surprise. It might mean major unexpected and expensive repairs or even a full roof replacement is necessary.
The Value and Cost of Commercial Roof Maintenance
A neglected roof delivers problems, but a well-maintained roof delivers lower expenses, fewer disruptions, and lasts a lot longer, too. In fact, according to the Building and Owners Management Association (BOMA), proper maintenance can extend a roof’s lifespan by up to 100%!
Plus, manufacturer warranties require ongoing care. Without regular maintenance, most commercial roof warranties are null and void.
Preventing a problem is usually far less costly than fixing it after the fact. In addition, leaks introduce moisture that can compromise the roof deck, insulation and create major additional damage over time—boiling in the summer and freezing in the winter. Roof components, as they age or sustain damage, may go from being easily repairable to a situation in which they must be completely replaced. In short, commercial roof maintenance makes a tremendous difference.
Consider a new commercial roof with a 20-year warranty. Without regular commercial roof maintenance, that roof will likely last only 15 years before replacement. If the roof costs $525,000 to install, that’s an average of $35,000 per year over 15 years.
With a comprehensive commercial roof maintenance plan, however, you can likely double the life of that asset, and many manufacturers will even extend your warranty. With regular inspections and maintenance—where caulk is freshened, drains are cleared, and potential future problems are identified and addressed—you may get 30 years out of that same, well-maintained roof. At a $525,000 installation cost, that’s only $17,500 per year—a cost savings of $17,500 annually.
Extended roof life more than offsets the small annual cost of commercial roof maintenance, which may only be a few thousand dollars. Commercial roof maintenance also drives other significant benefits every year, including:
- Delaying roof replacement
- Preventing leaks
- Avoiding building damage
- Maintaining and extending warranties
- Fixing roof components vs. having to replace them
- Eliminating headaches for yourself, the building owner, and the occupants
Regardless of the age and state of your current roof, preventative maintenance can create value. In most cases, with regular inspections and care, you could still double the remaining life of your roof, as well as gain the advantages above.
Other Best Practices to Get the Highest Value from Your Commercial Roof
With longer roof life, far lower annual costs, and fewer problems to deal with, the value of regular maintenance is clear. In addition to the cost of commercial roof maintenance, there are also other factors to consider and smart actions you can take to get more from your roof.
Roof access control is one very important best practice. According to BOMA, there is a direct correlation between the number of people who access the roof and the number of costly repairs for the roof that will be required. Be sure to keep hatches and doors locked, maintain a record of all roof access, and communicate strict requirements for contractors on the roof, such as following safety protocols, reporting damage, and cleaning up after their work.
Another best practice is to develop a trusted roofing company relationship. First, you can make sure preventative maintenance is in place. In addition, if an excessive storm or other event creates widespread problems and demand is high, your needs will have priority.
The Value of RoofAdvantage 360
Performed correctly, roof maintenance and service can be highly valuable. That’s why Roofing Corporation of America is proud to offer RoofAdvantage 360—a collection of three best-in-class services that maximize your roof’s performance and life while minimizing disruptions, with rapid response when emergencies do occur. Whether you are responsible for one facility or dozens, RoofAdvantage 360 is your solution for efficient, consistent, professional, and safe commercial roofing services and roof maintenance nationwide. Learn more at RoofAdvantage360.com.
