Roofs are undoubtedly one of the most important components in any building. Especially for commercial buildings in New York. A leaky roof can be more than just an inconvenience for business owners and can threaten their entire operations. Therefore, if your roof is constantly in need of repair, then the best option to tackle this issue is a complete roof replacement.
Having a commercial roof replacement for the first time can be confusing for anyone as there is a wide range of roofing systems available in the market. Besides, there are also other factors that should be considered when having a roof replacement. In this guide, we’ll break down all the key factors affecting commercial roof replacement costs in NYC. Helping you create a realistic budget and plan for your roofing project.
Some of the most commonly used commercial roofing systems in New York include
- Metal roofing
- Spray-On Silicon Roofing
- Green Roofing
- EPDM Roofing Membrane
- Shingle Roofing
- Thermoplastic PVC Roofing
- TPO Roofing
Each of the above-mentioned roofing systems has its own advantages and disadvantages, therefore, you can select the one that best suits your needs.
Understanding the commercial roofing costs in New York
One of the very first things that everyone considers before having a roof replacement is the overall cost associated with it. There is no fixed cost associated with roof replacement as it is dependent on a variety of factors. Some of the major factors involved in the replacement cost include
1. Roof Size and Complexity
The most obvious factor that is the main cost affecting factor for roof replacement is the total square footage of the roof. larger roofs require more materials and labor. Besides the size, the complexity involved in the replacement task also affects the overall cost. Intricate roof designs with multiple slopes, unusual shapes, or numerous penetrations will require more specialized work, increasing the overall cost.
2. Material Selection
Roofing materials contribute a big chunk to the overall cost of the project. approximately 40% to 50% of the entire budget is spent on procuring the materials. Popular roofing options for New Yorkers Include
- Metal roofing
- Spray-On Silicon Roofing
- Green Roofing
- EPDM Roofing Membrane
- Shingle Roofing
- Thermoplastic PVC Roofing
- TPO Roofing
3. Removal of Existing Roof
Removal of existing roofs also contributes a significant sum to the overall roof replacement cost. Your old roof needs to be completely removed and disposed of properly which requires a lot of skilled labor that leads to an exaggerated project cost.
4. Permits and Inspections
Obtaining the required permits from DOB New York is also a crucial step of the process and adds to the overall cost of the project.
Average Cost Ranges
There is no single definitive cost for roof replacement. However, a roof replacement can cost you somewhere between $4 to $40 per square foot- or about $7 on average per square foot. Or, in roofing units, it would cost you about $400 to $4000 per roofing foot for a roof replacement.
The high end of the cost takes into account expensive roofing materials such as metal, slate, and tile roofings.
| Material | Average Cost per Square Foot |
| TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) | $11 - $12 |
| Metal Roofing | $15+ |
| EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) | $11 - $12 |
| Built-up Roof (BUR) | $12 - $14 |
Beyond the Basics: Common Concerns
How Much Does a New Commercial Roof Cost?
As described above, the per square foot cost for roof replacement lies between $4 to $4000. This means that for a medium sized commercial building, the total cost comes out to be $4000 to $140,000 for complete replacement.
What is the Best Commercial Roofing Material?
Now the question arises about the type of commercial roofing that best fits your needs. There is no fixed answer to this question too. Different types of roofing materials have their own advantages and disadvantages. It’s up to you to choose the one that fulfills all your requirements while being within your cost constraints.
For instance, TPO roofing is widely recognized for its durability. Making it the preferred choice for most commercial buildings. Metals roofs are excellent but offer excellent durability and longevity. Whereas, EPDM roofings are suitable for complex roofs.
Fixing A Leak in Your Commercial Roof
1. Identify the Source of Leak
Moisture is one of the biggest enemies of roofs. Therefore, early detection and mitigation of any moisture issue is crucial in preventing excessive damage to the roof.
2. Repair Options and Cost
Some of the most commonly utilized methods for repairing leaks include patching small holes, resealing seams, or replacing the damaged section.
Conclusion
When it comes to your New York City commercial roof, several factors determine the replacement cost: size, chosen material, and installation complexity. Remember, a quality roof is an investment. Opt for a durable material that complements your building's needs and prioritizes energy efficiency. For long-term savings, address leaks promptly with professional help to prevent further damage and costly repairs. Get quotes from reputable local roofing contractors to secure the best value and expert guidance for your specific project.