SPF Roofing vs Metal Roofing: Which is Best for Commercial Buildings?

 

When we meet with future clients, they are usually comparing several types of roofing systems. We are always asked: Which is better? Which is more affordable? Which is best for long lasting protection?

At West Roofing Systems, we want to make sure that our future clients have the best information available. For this reason, we created an article that explores the differences between metal and SPF roofing systems to give you all the information you need in choosing which roof for your facility.

 

The Basics

Metal Roofing

[caption id="attachment_23562" align="alignright" width="267"] Playhouse Square, OH - Metal Roofing[/caption]

Metal Roofing is one of the oldest commercial roofing systems on the market.

Most metal roofing systems use corrugated galvanized steel, although other materials such as aluminum or tin can also be used. After a metal roofing system is installed, a coating can be added for waterproofing, rust protection, and UV protection.

 

Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) Roofing

Spray Polyurethane Foam, more commonly referred to as SPF, is a material that is sprayed and expands into a foam, creating a solid layer across an existing roof.

While SPF roofing is not the most known type of roofing material, the technology has been around since the early 1960s for industrial, commercial, and residential facilities.

Read More: Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) Roofing: Installation & Performance

 

Cost

Metal Roofing

For an average commercial roof, it will usually cost between $5.00 and $10.00 per square foot in materials and labor to install a typical metal roofing system. This price range can change depending on the type and style of the metal panels you choose.

Read More: Average Cost of Metal Roofing per Square Foot

 

SPF Roofing

For an average 20,000 sq. foot commercial roof, it will usually cost between $4.00 and $7.00 per square foot in materials and labor to install a typical SPF roofing system. This price range is for an SPF roof of average thickness and building structure.

Read More: Cost of a Spray Polyurethane Foam Roofing System

 

Installation

Metal Roofing

Since metal roofing material is rather light in weight, it can be installed right on top of the existing roof. A contractor will install a frame, or substrate, with trusses and purlins for the metal roof to be fastened to.

After the existing roof is prepared, your contractor will install a layer of insulation. There are a few types of insulation options available:

• Roofing Felt
• Fiberglass
• Rigid Board
• Bubble Insulation
• Spray Foam

 

After the insulation is installed, metal panels are cut and attached to the frame with screws. These panels are installed with overlapping edges to cover all the exposed insulation underneath. Flashings are mounted on the joints of the roof.

 

SPF Roofing

[caption id="attachment_22053" align="alignright" width="300"] West Roofing Systems installs SPF Roof on Parma Ice Rink Building[/caption]

Before the installation can start, the existing roof needs to be prepared. Rather than stripping the existing roof, the contractor will most likely prepare the substrate by getting rid of all dirt, dust, and contaminants.

The first layer put down by the contractor is the polyurethane foam. This foam is created by combining two liquids as it’s sprayed onto the existing roof substrate. As the liquid is sprayed onto the existing roof, it expands to form a solid foam surface.

When the SPF layer has been completed, it is then coated with a layer(s) of elastomeric silicone or acrylic coating with embedded granules.

 

Advantages

Metal Roofing

If properly installed and maintained, a commercial metal roof can last 40 years. There are quite a few other benefits of metal roofing systems:

Design - Variety of material and color choices.

Stability - Ability to hold up to high winds and snow.

Energy Efficient – Sheet metal can be made from recycled steel.

Fire Resistance – The metal panels will not burn in the event of a fire.

 

SPF Roofing

If properly installed and maintained, a commercial SPF roof can last 50 years. There are quite a few other benefits of SPF roofing systems:

Energy Efficient - SPF delivers thermal, air, and moisture barriers to provide the highest R-value per inch.

Durable - The foam material can expand and contract with the building, decreasing the likelihood of cracks and splitting.

Seamless and Waterproof - The continuous solid surface does not require joints or seams, removing the most vulnerable area for leaking.

Environmentally Friendly - In most cases, there is minimal stripping of the original roof – eliminating the need for costly roof tear-offs and waste.

 

Read More: Pros and Cons of Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) Roofing Systems

 

Disadvantages

Metal Roofing

While metal roofing systems can have a long lifespan, this can only be obtained if the roof is maintained properly over the years. This includes a coating to avoid rust, replacing and re-fastening damaged panels. Here are other disadvantages of metal roofing systems:

Water Damage - If water ponds on the roof it can cause severe damage, such as rust.

Full Replacement - The substrate, or frame, is often cumbersome and difficult to work with. They require a complete tear off in almost every replacement instance.

Seams - The metal panels create seams that are prone to water leaks.

Durability - Since the metal panels are attached to the substrate, if they are not installed correctly they can become loose when they expand and contract.

Noise - Weather such as rain, hail or wind can create a lot of noise against the metal material.

 

SPF Roofing

While the advantages of an SPF roofing system outweigh the disadvantages, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Here are disadvantages of SPF roofing systems:

Hire the Right Professional - The contractor needs to be precise with the application and have a solid understanding of the chemicals they are using.

Limited Installation Window - Installation of an SPF roofing system cannot be performed during cold, windy, or rainy weather.

Overspray Potential - Since the SPF is installed by a spray application, there is a risk of the wind carrying overspray onto surrounding cars and other surfaces.

Limited Colors – The silicone coating that is applied to the foam comes in two colors: white and gray.

Maintenance - SPF roofing systems need to be inspected twice a year at least.

 

As you can see, both SPF and Metal Roofing Systems have their benefits and drawbacks. Choosing which one is best comes down to a customer-by-customer basis.

West Roofing Systems, Inc. installs sustainable and efficient roofing systems for commercial, industrial, manufacturing and municipal buildings. In over 37 years, we have installed over 56,000,000 square feet of commercial Spray polyurethane foam (SPF), single ply membrane and other popular roofing systems.

If you are looking for maintenance, repair or replacement for your facilities roof, fill out our quote form for your free no-obligation commercial roof quote from our team of experts.

Source Here: SPF Roofing vs Metal Roofing: Which is Best for Commercial Buildings?

Best Commercial Roofing Contractors in Cleveland, Ohio

If you own or manage a commercial facility, you will need to repair or replace the roof at some point. In doing so, you are going to research different
commercial roofing contractors to find the one that best fits your needs.

While our award-winning services help our clients protect their facilities and cut energy costs, we understand that you may still want to consider all of your options before selecting your commercial roofing contractor.

It’s common for building owners and managers to ask us this question: “If we don’t use West Roofing Systems, who would you recommend?” That’s why we have compiled a list of five of the best roofing contractors in the Cleveland, Ohio area.

 

At West Roofing Systems, we believe in honesty and transparency when it comes to interacting with our current and potential customers. We are pleased to answer this question for you. So, let’s dive into some details about the best roofing contractors in the area.

 

Simon Roofing (Youngstown, OH)

Formed in 1900, Simon Roofing markets itself as a contractor that also manufactures their own proprietary roofing products. The company can repair or replace metal, built-up, modified, spray foam and sustainable roofing structures. With 66 service centers nationwide, they are ISO 9001:2008 certified companywide.

 

Warren Roofing & Insulating Co. (Walton Hills, OH)

In business for more than 90 years, Warren Roofing and Insulation provides built-up, modified and single ply, as well as green roofing, roofing coatings, and solar technology. Warren Roofing works with over 20 contractors in the Ohio area on industrial facilities, retail stores, and higher education facilities.

 

Industrial Energy Systems, Inc. (Cleveland, OH)

Established in 1983, IES has been a prominent roofer contractor in Cleveland for many years. Their 14,200-square foot facility allows them to fabricate custom sheet metal products for the repair and replacement of single-ply, built-up, modified, architectural sheet metal and siding systems.

 

CentiMark (Stow, OH)

While their headquarters are near Pittsburgh, PA, CentiMark has a notable location in the Stow, OH area. They offer services for thermoplastic, EPDM, spray polyurethane foam, roof coatings modified bitumen & built-up roofing, metal, steep slope along with flooring services as well.

 

Cleveland Commercial Roofing (Cleveland, OH)

For over 20 years, Cleveland Commercial Roofing has provided roofing, waterproofing, and restoration services in Ohio and the surrounding states. Their portfolio includes Cleveland’s own Horseshoe Casino.

 

Check Out: National Roofing Association: How to Choose a Contractor

 

Now that you’re armed with some information on the best commercial roofing contractors in the area consider the services your facility needs so that you can choose the best contractor. Remember to consider these factors while doing so:

• Ensure your contractor holds the proper credentials – are they licensed, bonded and insured?
• Make sure the company has the capacity and service team your facility requires – ask to see their portfolio
• Check what people are saying – look for online reviews and BBB ratings

 

Although it would be just as easy for you to choose a different commercial roofing contractor in the area, choosing West Roofing Systems as turnkey roofing company will provide you with highly trained teams and award-winning service.

Our services are flexible and diverse; we can recoat, repair or replace your facility’s roof so that it lasts decades. With a team of service professionals located in LaGrange, OH, West Roofing Systems can provide you with local and reliable commercial roofing services.

 

Originally Published Here: Best Commercial Roofing Contractors in Cleveland, Ohio

Pros and Cons of Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) Roofing Systems

We all want more “bang for our buck” in today’s economy.  So, why should your commercial roofing system be any different?

[caption id="attachment_23118" align="alignright" width="269"] SPF Roof on School[/caption]

At West Roofing Systems, we have over 37 years of commercial roofing experience; we work with customers every day to decide what kind of roof is best for their facility.

While the choice is ultimately up to the building owner, we want to point out a few pros and cons to Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) Roofing Systems.

 

Pros of SPF Roofing

Easy Installation

The ease of installation can save you time and money with your new SPF roof. The application of the foam and coating is quick and can be applied with usually no interruption to the daily routine of the facility.

[caption id="attachment_23115" align="alignright" width="380"] Spray Polyurethane Foam Application[/caption]

SPF roofs are installed by spraying a liquid on the existing roof and allowing it to expand into a foam. This process means that the foam can conform to all roof shapes and types, even irregularly shaped roofs. After cleaning the existing roof, the SPF roof can be applied directly over asphalt, shingles, concrete, metal and wood.

 

Energy Efficient

SPF roofing delivers thermal, air, and moisture barriers to provide the highest R-value per inch, which means the material provides better insulation for the building.

The polyurethane foam keeps heat out in the summer and in during the winter, lowering energy costs for facility owners. The silicone top coating resists UV light, protecting the foam and reduces heat absorption (emissivity).

 

Easy Maintenance

Once an SPF roof is installed, it requires minimal upkeep to remain under warranty. If properly maintained, your SPF roof can last over 50 years.

SPF roofing systems should be inspected semi-annually, in the Spring and again in the Fall. Additional inspections are also suggested following any event that might have caused damage to the system.

In the event where a silicone recoating is needed, there’s no tear-off of the existing materials; you apply the new coat on top of the current system.

 

Seamless and Waterproof

[caption id="attachment_23134" align="alignright" width="300"] Seamless SPF Roof[/caption]

Seams and penetrations are the primary sources of leaks in roof systems, SPF eliminates this vulnerability.  Since the SPF mixture is applied as a liquid, it can fill gaps, seams, and cracks in the existing roof and substrate.

The application of the polyurethane foam allows the contractor to level out the roof to decrease the chance of ponding water. The foam material can expand and contract with the building in accordance with outside temperatures, reducing the likelihood of cracks and splitting.

 

Renewable and Sustainable Roofing

SPF roofs create little to no waste during its lifetime. In most cases, there is minimal stripping of the original roof, and the SPF roof is installed on top – eliminating the need for costly roof tear-offs and waste.

The materials that are used for SPF roofing systems are also environmentally friendly:

• Zero Ozone Depleting Potential (ODP)
• Low in the Emission of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCS)
• Free from Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCS)
• Ultra-Low Global Warming Potential (GWP)

 

 

Cons of SPF Roofs

Not All Contractors are Created Equally

[caption id="attachment_23116" align="alignright" width="245"] SPFA Certifications[/caption]

The application of the spray foam is a process that needs to be done correctly from the beginning. The contractor needs to be precise with the application and have a solid understanding of the chemicals they are using.

It doesn’t take a large crew to install an SPF roofing system, but it requires a high degree of technical knowledge and experience.

The Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance (SPFA) has an ISO-17024 compliant certification program that has multiple levels, requires the contractor to pass an exam and meet the criteria for a certification.

If the roofing system is installed incorrectly, it can be detrimental to the lifespan of the roof and underlying substrate.

 

Limited Installation Window

SPF can only be sprayed during specific weather conditions. Installation of an SPF roofing system cannot be performed when there is ice, frost, surface moisture, or visible dampness on the existing roof.

While the installation does not interrupt the daily functions of the building, the weather requirements can leave only a small window of opportunity.

 

Overspray Potential

[caption id="attachment_23117" align="alignright" width="394"] Spray Polyurethane Foam Application Team[/caption]

Since the SPF roof is installed by a spray application, there is a risk of the wind carrying overspray onto surrounding cars and other surfaces. While this does not pose a health concern, it is a concern for surrounding property.

At West Roofing Systems, we take extra care to prevent overspray. We have a few different techniques that we practice to protect surrounding property.

 

Maintenance

SPF roofing systems should be inspected twice a year whether there is known damage or not. And especially after weather events that could cause damage: such as hail storms, tornados, and hurricanes. Small cracks, gouges, or punctures can be repaired with an elastomeric sealant compatible with the SPF system. So you need to keep your SPF roof in mind at all times.

 

Accurate Repairs Needed

SPF does not have as high of resistance to punctures or damage. If your SPF roof is damaged, you must call an SPF contractor to perform the repair. The repair needs to be made with silicone because typical roofing repair materials do not adhere to the silicone coating.

Spray Polyurethane Foam Roofing Systems are becoming the go-to roofing for commercial, industrial, and manufacturing facilities that are looking for a sustainable, economically efficient option.

 

At West Roofing Systems, our goal is to get you a long lasting, durable roof that will protect your facility. That includes working with our award-winning team to choose the best roofing systems to meet your needs.

Contact West Roofing Systems today to talk to our expert staff about your future SPF Roofing System.

Source Here: Pros and Cons of Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) Roofing Systems

Cost of a Spray Polyurethane Foam Roofing System

Our sales team is asked every day, “How much does a Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) roof cost?” and it’s not easy to give just one answer.

[caption id="attachment_22199" align="alignright" width="274"] Prairie State College after West Roofing Systems installs new SPF roof[/caption]

There are many factors that can affect the price of a commercial roof; from the weather to the location to the material choices.

Here at West Roofing Systems, we’ve installed over a 54,600,000 sq. feet of roofing domestically and internationally and during that time we have noticed that it can be tough to answer, “How much does a Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) roof cost.”

So, in this article, will review the average price of an SPF roof and break down factors that could change your price. Keep in mind that when you are looking to invest in a new roofing system, it’s a good idea to get a couple of quotes from different contractors.

For an average 20,000 sq. foot commercial roof, it will usually cost between $4.00 and $7.00 per square foot in materials and labor to install a typical SPF roofing system. This price range is for an SPF roof of average thickness and building structure.

 

To get the best roofing system for the right price, you will need to consider these key factors:

 

The Size of Your Roof

When a contractor is pricing a new roofing system, the economies of scale starts around 20,000 sq feet; which means after 50,000 sq. feet you can start saving money per square foot of roof.

Other size factors that can impact your cost also include:

• The logistics of moving equipment up to and across a large roof
• Debris removal costs
• Material transport costs – this cost can take up 2-3% of the total project costs

 

Thickness of the SPF

[caption id="attachment_23024" align="alignright" width="300"] Recommended insulation levels across the US[/caption]

On average, it costs $1.65 - $2.25 per square foot for materials and labor on a typical SPF roofing system, which is a 1.5in layer of foam. Although there are reasons that a building will need a thicker layer, the most common reason is for energy efficiencies.

The thicker you make the foam layer, the high R-Value your roof will have. An R-value is the measure of insulation (resistance to heat flow) for material. All states or regions have that require that a roof system has a minimum amount of thermal resistance on commercial, industrial, and institutional buildings.

Basically: the higher the R-value, the more the material insulates.

You can work with your architect or contractor to compare the energy cost savings to the additional SPF costs to find where you can save money. Studies show that SPF Roofing has the most rapid return on investment from energy savings.

 

Condition of Existing Roof

The condition of your existing roof will be a crucial factor in the cost of your new SPF roof. There are three options when dealing with the existing roof:

[caption id="attachment_22117" align="alignright" width="300"] Before SPF Roofing Installation[/caption]

 

Clean and Prepare Existing Roof (no significant alterations) - $0.10 - $0.75 per sq. foot

When you have a solid roof that doesn’t require major modifications or corrections, the contractor will need to clean and prepare the roof, so the foam adheres properly.

There are four ways a contractor can prepare a roof for SPF installation:

1. Air Pressure Cleaning
2. Powerwash
3. Dry Vac/Ballast Removal
4. Wet Vac for dirt, gravel and dust removal

 

Recovery Board Fastened on Top of the Existing Roof – $0.60 - $0.80 per sq. foot

Recovery boards are commonly used to recover and improve the application surface. This process could be used to cover joints and to provide a separation layer between the existing and new roofing systems.

 

Stripping and Removal of Roof - $1.00 - $2.00 per sq. foot

There are two main reasons a contractor would need to strip and remove your existing roof.

1. A building can’t have more than two roofing systems. This means if you currently have two roofs, your contractor will need to remove them before installing your new roof.
2. If your roof is damaged, saturated or unstable, your contractor will need to strip the existing roof to install a new working roof.

 

Silicone Coating

When the SPF layer has been completed, it is then sealed with a layer of silicone and embedded granules. These layers protect the roof and foam from UV light, weather, and impact. The cost is between $1.75 and $2.30 per sq. foot in labor and materials to install.

There is a two-coat minimum of the silicone coating. You can increase the thickness of the silicone layer depending on the warranty you choose. For example, a 20-year warranty will need a thicker layer of silicone than a 10-year warranty.

 

Access to Roof

[caption id="attachment_23026" align="alignright" width="300"] WRS Employee Rappeling for Sloped Roof Installation[/caption]

Not all commercial roofs are flat; not all roofs can be walked on. Additional costs can occur when your contractor has limited access to the facility roof.

Height and distances of the roof can be multipliers for the cost of your SPF roof installation. Sloped roofs often require the contractors to use a man lift or rappelling gear for SPF installation. Contractors may need to rent conveyance equipment such as a crane or passenger hoist to move the crew and equipment.

When teams are working on secure locations, such as an airport, they often need to keep up their Secure Identification Display Area (SIDA) authorization. This includes background checks and fingerprinting, which is an added cost for the contractors.

 

Type of Warranty

When you install a new SPF roofing system, you will have a few warranty options. The three most common types of warranties include:

1. Contractor’s Warranty - No expense or less than $1,000
2. Manufacturer’s Product Warranty - Low cost and low coverage
3. Manufacturer’s Full System Warranty - $0.08 - $0.15 per sq. foot

 

Maintenance

You can save a lot of money by simply keeping up with the maintenance of your SPF roofing system. There are two types of maintenance: preventative maintenance and a restoration coating.

 

Preventative Maintenance

It is recommended that your SPF roof is inspected twice a year:

• Fall Inspection – Clear leaves from drains, prepare for winter
• Spring Inspection – Look for damage from the winter weather

 

A visual inspection including general maintenance is a rather inexpensive way to maintain the integrity of your SPF roof at $0.2 - $0.5 per sq. foot. Any roofing contractor can perform inspections on your SPF roof, but you should hire a certified SPF roofing contractor to perform repairs.

 

Silicone Restoration Coating

[caption id="attachment_22182" align="alignright" width="256"] Before and after silicone restoration coating[/caption]

Silicone Restoration Coating is an economical and environmentally friendly alternative to re-roofing. The average cost range for a silicone restoration coating is $2.00 - $5.00 per sq. foot.

Your contractor will make sure that the existing surface is clean and dry, and apply a new layer of silicone coating to the roof. This will restore the top layer of your roof and repair any punctures or other issues your roof is experiencing.

 

So, there you have it – our costs for spray polyurethane foam roofing systems. When you include the SPF, silicone coating, size and access to the facility, warranty, and maintenance, the average cost of an SPF roofing system is between $4.00 and $7.00 per square foot. It’s important to remember that based on your roofing contractor, location, and building, these prices will vary.

If you have any further questions about what your spray polyurethane foam roofing system will cost, email us anytime at info@westroofingsystems.com or by filling out our contact form online to find out more.

Originally Published Here: Cost of a Spray Polyurethane Foam Roofing System