You’ve decided it’s time to get a new roof for your business. That’s a big decision to make!
You know you want the best roofing material and the most skilled professionals to install it. But you might be struggling with one question: How much does a new commercial roof cost?
Good news—we can help! In this article, we’ll walk you through the various factors that affect the cost of a new commercial roof so you can make an informed decision when buying.
We’ll cover everything from different types of roofs and materials to installation and insulation, labor costs, permits, and more!
And by the end of this article, you’ll have a better idea of what your new commercial roof will cost. So let’s dive in!
How Much Does a New Commercial Roof Cost
How much is a new commercial roof going to cost? The answer varies widely and depends a lot on the size and complexity of the roof and the materials you choose.
Generally, you can pay between $6 and $15 per square foot for a new commercial roof.
Many different options are available when choosing materials for your new commercial roof.
You can go with metal roofs, which come in various price points depending on the type and quality of metal used.
Other options include asphalt shingles or rubber membrane roofs, which are relatively economical.
Of course, your choice will also depend on your local climate; if you’re in an area with high winds or large amounts of snowfall, you’ll want to consider more substantial materials such as concrete tiles or steel panels.
The labor cost will also be a factor in determining the overall cost of your new commercial roof.
Hire an experienced professional with a well-established reputation in the industry. They can get you a better deal than if you go with someone less experienced.
Additionally, you may shave some costs off by doing some of the work yourself.
However, any installation must be done safely and securely so that your roof lasts as long as possible without incidents.
Assessing Your Commercial Roof’s Needs
When assessing your commercial roof’s needs, there are several factors to consider, such as the size of your building and the type of roof you want.
The larger the building, the more expensive the new roof will be. Additionally, certain types of materials can also increase costs significantly. For instance, a metal roof might be more costly than an asphalt shingle roof.
If you’re looking for a rough estimate of what a new commercial roof might cost, keep in mind that it can range from $1.50 to $5 per square foot installed.
However, this number is just an average and can vary greatly depending on the size of your building and the features you choose (such as insulation).
It’s also important to note that some materials and installation processes may require specialized labor or additional time for completion.
To better understand your new commercial roof’s cost, consult a professional contractor who can assess your needs and provide a more accurate quote.
Choosing the Right Commercial Roof for Your Building
When it comes to new commercial roofing, one of the most significant factors determining the cost is the type of roof you choose for your building.
There are several different types of commercial roofs available, and depending on your building’s needs, budget, and intended use, you’ll want to choose the one that makes the most sense for you.
Materials
When choosing a commercial roof, there are several materials to choose from. These include:
- Built-up Roof (BUR): A BUR system combines tar, gravel, tar, and asphalt layers. It’s an economical option that can stand up against extreme weather conditions.
- Single-Ply Membrane: These single-ply membranes are made from TPO, PVC, or EPDM rubber and provide superior protection from moisture and heat.
- Modified Bitumen: This type of roofing system combines both BUR advantages with those of single-ply membranes for added strength and UV resistance.
- Metal Roof: Metal roofs offer excellent weather protection and can be slated or curved for any style.
- Green Roofs: Green roofs are designed to conserve energy by reducing heating and cooling costs, minimizing stormwater runoff, and providing insulation benefits, but they require specialized installation.
The cost of your commercial roof will depend mainly on which material you choose — each has its own pros and cons to consider when making your decision.
Community Codes and Regulations Influencing Cost
Looking at it from the street, you might not realize this, but many codes and regulations go into a commercial roof installation.
Depending on the city and county, there might be building codes that must be followed—and these could potentially require extra steps or materials during installation.
And if your building is listed with a historical society, your contractor must follow those guidelines.
In addition to local ordinances that must be met, safety regulations also exist. For example:
- OSHA requirements can influence a job site due to the presence of workers who need protection while they work
- Certain materials may require special permits because they are combustible or flammable
- Inclement weather may impose additional requirements when using certain materials
Generally speaking, these rules and regulations can often add complexity to the job, and additional costs may follow.
Working with an experienced contractor is essential so that you know all costs before any work begins and also comply with local and state laws.
Ways to Reduce Commercial Roof Installation Costs
When installing a new commercial roof, costs can add up quickly. But there are several ways you can save money on your roof installation.
Roof Shape
One way to reduce costs is to consider the shape of your roof when planning the installation process. The fewer corners and angles, the simpler and cheaper the installation process.
A flat or low-slope roof is often the best option for a commercial space since fewer installation requirements and materials are required for a single-level surface.
Installation Materials
The type of material used in your commercial roof greatly affects how much it will cost.
Metal roofs are usually more expensive than asphalt or fiberglass roofs but can last longer and provide better protection in certain climates.
Consider all available materials before deciding on one that fits your budget and needs.
Labor Costs
Hiring an experienced contractor familiar with installing commercial roofs can help reduce labor costs.
Make sure to get multiple estimates from different contractors to know what different prices look like before selecting.
You should also research local labor rates to ensure that any contractor you hire meets industry standards for labor costs and payment terms.
By planning and researching the various options for materials, shapes, and contractors available for your roof installation project, you can save yourself some money in the long run—and make sure you get a great new commercial roof for your budget!
Conclusion
The cost of a new roof can vary significantly from sizing to materials. The best way to ensure a competitive bid and a quality result is to shop around and solicit multiple quotes.
Before selecting a contractor to install your new commercial roof, research the company, their customer service, and the material quality they use.
Investing in quality material is essential for any commercial roof, as it will significantly impact the roof’s durability and longevity.
Remember, when it comes to a new commercial roof, you get what you pay for. Don’t let cheap materials and sloppy workmanship lead to a costly and uninspiring roof.
Choose high-quality materials, hire experienced and licensed professionals, and remember to stay within your budget.
