Roof maintenance is a necessary part of commercial building upkeep. But unfortunately, no roof lasts forever. When it comes to commercial roofing, one of the most important decisions a building owner or property manager has to make is determining when it’s time to repair or replace their roof.
This decision can be challenging, as it requires evaluating the current condition of the roof, the cost of the repairs or replacement, and the long-term benefits of each option.
The good news? You can make your decision easier with commercial roof inspections from Building Envelope Allies. Our experts specialize in nondestructive roof moisture surveys to identify leaks and evaluate the overall health of your roofing system.
Read on for our tips on how to determine whether commercial roof repair or replacement is the right call.
Consider the age and condition of your roof
First and foremost, think about the age of your roof. Most commercial roofs can last decades, depending on material and weather conditions. If your roof is relatively new and has only minor damages, repairs could keep it going for many more years.
But if your roof is approaching the end of its lifespan, a replacement may be the more cost-effective option in the long run. Talk to our inspectors about when your roof was installed and any repair history, and we can evaluate its condition and make a recommendation.
Get a roof moisture survey
When you need commercial roof repair, an inspection is a great place to start. We specialize in infrared roof moisture surveys and nuclear roof moisture surveys to diagnose issues without causing more damage.
Our team looks at the roof’s current condition, normal wear and tear, and any damage. We use moisture surveys to identify the source of indoor issues, like leaks, stains, or mold, and determine the extent of the damage.
Your roof moisture survey report helps you understand the extent of the repairs needed. With that information, you can determine whether it may be better to repair or replace your roof.
Weigh the cost of commercial roof repair vs. replacement
Once you know the extent of the maintenance your roof needs, you can get quotes from roofing contractors for repair, replacement or both. It’s important to think about the cost of both and the impact they will have on your roofing system as a whole.
While repairs may seem like the more cost-effective option in the short-term, they can add up over time and end up costing more than a total replacement in the long run.
Consider the energy-efficiency of your roof
The energy-efficiency of your commercial roof is also a key consideration. Older roofs are less energy efficient, which can impact indoor comfort and utility costs.
If your roof is approaching the end of its lifespan, replacing it gives you an opportunity to install a longer-lasting and more energy-efficient roof. Energy-efficient materials can make the building more comfortable for occupants, lower your utility bills, and cut down on maintenance issues in the future.
Check your roof warranty
Before you commit one way or the other, review your roof warranty if you have one. It’s important to understand the terms and conditions of the warranty, along with the length of coverage. If your roof is nearing the end of its warranty or it’s out of warranty, it may be more cost-effective to replace it rather than make repairs.
Deciding between commercial roof repair and replacement isn’t always easy. It requires careful consideration of costs and benefits, and a roof inspection from Building Envelope Allies can give you the insight you need to make the best decision.
Schedule a consultation with our team to talk about your commercial roof inspection options.