Cutting commercial roof costs

By Roofing Corp of America. 

With the right practices, building owners can get the highest value from their commercial roof and save themselves money and stress. 

A commercial roofing system is a huge investment and performs a critical role in protecting the building owner’s assets. To do this, it stands as the first line of defense between outdoor elements such as animals, weather and foreign debris. So, the possibility of damage to this crucial element of the building can have significant repercussions. A roof leak can disrupt operations, accrue large repair bills and may even be a sign of a bigger problem that could eventually lead to extensive repairs or even a full roof replacement. 

However, there are practices that can be implemented to give a commercial roof a longer life span and lower annual costs. One of which is designing a regular maintenance schedule for it. Another best practice is developing a relationship with a roofing company you trust, such as those that work with us here at Roofing Corp of America. We can help the building owner set up the maintenance schedule and perform tasks, along with being a valuable resource in case large problems arise. Keep reading to learn more about why a maintenance schedule is key and what should be included in it. 

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 Plus, manufacturer warranties require ongoing care. Without regular maintenance, most commercial roof warranties are null and void. 

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. 

In addition to this, there are other key practices for maintaining a healthy commercial roof system. 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. 

Original article source: Roof Advantage 360