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If you own or manage a business, odds are you have thought about how to calculate the cost of a new or replacement commercial flat roof per square foot. If this sounds familiar, you are in the right place. In this blog post, we will break down the elements that make up the price of a flat roof and share the average costs of popular flat roofing materials.
Let’s start by going over the services and products you will be paying for.
Roof Installation Costs: Understanding the Price Tag
There are many factors that contribute to the total cost of a commercial flat roof, and it is important to consider these while planning your roofing project.
1. Materials
All the roofing materials take center stage: wooden or metal decking, underlayment, roof covering, flashing, and more. The final roofing material installed can be EPDM, PVC, TPO, or metal, each falling within a different price range. Plus, the cost not only includes the material itself, but also the adhesives and the layers that keep everything in place.
Also read : Top 5 Commercial Roofing Materials
2. Hiring a Contractor
Meet the experts behind the scenes – the roofing professionals! They’re the ones who bring your roofing dreams to life. The more intricate your roof, the more time and skill it might need. Don’t forget that proper installation is essential to keep your roof standing strong for years without needing too many repairs.
3. Disposing of Old Materials
Before your new roof can be installed, the old one needs to be discarded. This involves removing the old materials, which includes labor costs and other disposal fees. For example, if your old roofing material isn’t recyclable, you will most likely have to pay per pound at a landfill.
4. Roofing Supplies and Tools
Roofers come armed with proper professional gear such as a safety helmet, harness, rubber gloves, non-slip shoes, and tools for measuring, leveling, cutting, fastening, and sealing. The cost of using these tools is not significant but is wrapped up in the total package. Hiring roofing contractors with advanced tools and techniques may increase your commercial flat roof cost.
5. Insulation
Insulation keeps your building comfortable by regulating the interior temperature. Roof insulation goes in between the roofing layers and stops heat from entering in the summer and escaping in the winter. Your commercial roofing cost will not only cover the insulation material, but it’s important to remember that proper insulation can reduce energy bills over time.
6. Flashing
Flashing seals the gaps around joints, corners, drains, and HVAC brackets to ensure a watertight system. These additions make sure your roof is ready to face whatever nature throws its way.
7. Permits and Inspections
Professional jobs like roof installations require proper permits and inspections. Permits may not be mentioned explicitly in the estimate for your flat roof replacement cost, and inspections are generally counted as an extra expense which is unavoidable.
8. Warranty
High-quality materials come with solid warranties that promise to keep your roof in good condition for a certain period. While this isn’t a direct cost, it’s like a guarantee that your investment will stand strong.
9. Roof Design and Accessories
The more complex the design, the higher the cost. Odd shapes, multiple rooftop units, solar panels, satellites, and similar materials require careful roofing and flashing techniques. This adds to the overall cost of your commercial flat roof replacement or installation.
10. Location
Last but not least, the area where your building is located has a say in the total cost. In metropolitan areas, where the cost of living is higher, the cost of a roof replacement can be higher than it would in rural areas.
With this information, it is important to consult with your roofing contractor to find the best solution for your situation. Remember, investing in quality materials and skilled professionals means your roof will stand tall for decades.
Let’s move forward to understanding the average cost of different flat roofing materials.
Commercial Flat Roof Costs Per Square Foot
Let’s explore some of the most common flat roofing materials which include fiberglass, EPDM, PVC, TPO, and metal. Here’s what you can expect in terms of pricing:
Fiberglass: Durability and Protection
Fiberglass flat roofs are a staple in the roofing industry for their durability and longevity. They typically fall within the price range of $4 to $9 per square foot for installation. What sets fiberglass apart is its remarkable resistance to wear and tear from weather, as well as its ability to reflect UV rays. If a long-lasting roofing solution is what you’re after, fiberglass is a great option.
EPDM: Flexibility and Resilience
Say hello to the durable EPDM rubber roof. This flexible material is made from synthetic rubber and brings multiple benefits to the table. The cost of EPDM typically falls between $4 and $9 per square foot. EPDM is known for withstanding extreme temperatures and standing strong against various weather conditions, including hail and snow.
PVC: UV and Pollutant Resistant
Looking for a roof that’s both efficient and reflective? Consider a PVC roof! Costing approximately $6 to $12 per square foot for installation, PVC roofs are renowned for their energy efficiency and heat-reflective properties. Plus, they can last against chemicals and pollutants, adding an extra layer of appeal for flat roofs in downtown cities or industrial areas.
TPO: Affordability and Efficiency
Meet TPO roofs, a relatively new flat roof material that is both cost-effective and energy-efficient. TPO roofing costs between $5 to $10 per square foot. TPO boasts heat-welded seams and high solar reflectivity. With the perfect balance of affordability and longevity, TPO is becoming the top choice for many flat roofing applications.
Metal: Sturdy and Long-Lasting
With materials like steel and aluminum, flat metal roofs offer a combination of longevity and durability. The installation cost ranges from $7 to $15 per square foot, as you’re investing in a roof that stands tall against the test of time. Plus, metal’s fire resistance adds an extra layer of reassurance.
That concludes our guide to commercial flat roofing costs and materials. Whether it’s durability, flexibility, efficiency, or a sleek appeal you’re after, there’s a roofing material for your building.
If you are looking for a new roof for your commercial building in Metro Detroit, we’re here to help.
Ask the Experts: Which Roofing Material is Right for Your Commercial Building?
At Paramount Roofing, we’re not just a roofing company – we’re your partners in safeguarding your commercial space with unparalleled dedication and expertise. We’re here to help you select the right roofing material for your building, followed by flawless roof installation. Your business is unique and so is our approach. We believe in customizing solutions that align with your needs, preferences, and budget. From energy-efficient designs to low-maintenance materials, we craft a solution that’s as individual as your property. Call us at (586) 571-9007, and we’ll be happy to guide you with a free consultation and estimate on your commercial flat roofing costs in Metro Detroit.