A Metal Roof Replacement May Not Be Your Only Option
At Moser Roofing Solutions, we often talk to business owners and property managers who simply aren’t aware of the options available for extending the life of their roof. Many assume that when metal roofing starts to leak, the only option is to replace the roof, as metal simply can’t be patched over like a single-ply membrane. Replacement isn’t the only option, however. Metal roof restoration can be a cost-effective solution that may add a decade or more to the life of your metal roof.
What’s the Difference Between Metal Roof Restoration and a Retrofit?
Let’s clear up some terminology first. The terms “restoration” and “retrofit” are often used confusingly or interchangeably in reference to metal roofing solutions. However, there’s a key difference to understand as you go about considering your options to fix your metal roof.
A metal roof retrofit typically refers to installing new metal panels over your existing metal roof. This is a service that can be completed without needing to tear off the existing roofing system, as instead your commercial roofing system will now comprise multiple layers of roofing.
Where things get confusing is that “roof restoration” is a general term that includes efforts to restore the condition of an existing commercial roofing system through repairs, coatings, and more. Crucially, restoration includes things like retrofitting a roof. So while retrofitting is one way to complete a metal roof restoration, it isn’t the only option.
When Does a Retrofit Make Sense?
The rule of thumb for all types of metal roof restoration options, including retrofits, is that if the roof is in relatively good structural condition, it can likely be restored. In determining the right course of action, your roofer will take several factors into consideration, including:
- The age of the roof
- Whether leaks are minor and isolated or significant and widespread
- Whether the exterior shows signs of rust
- Whether damage to the roof is more cosmetic (minor dings) or structural (going beyond the roof’s surface)
- Overall condition of insulation within the roofing system
For buildings with more cosmetic damage and deterioration, metal roof restoration is likely the best option. If there’s rust and signs of deterioration, a metal roof retrofit will likely be the solution, as retrofitted metal panels are mechanically fastened and would not be inhibited by existing rust.
What Other Metal Roof Restoration Options Are There?
A metal roof retrofit is typically more costly than other restoration options. Therefore, if other commercial roof restoration options are available, they may be recommended instead.
Besides a retrofit, metal roofs can also be restored through the installation of roof coatings or membranes. While a single-ply membrane won’t be as durable as a fully metal roof, it can add many years to the lifespan of an existing metal roof without incurring the costs of fully tearing down the existing roofing system.
Since most coatings used for metal roof restoration require adhesives, this is typically only an option for metal roofs that don’t have significant amounts of rust.
Is a Restoration Sufficient?
While restoration can be a cost-effective way to revitalize a metal roof and maximize its lifespan, it doesn’t make sense for every roof. Different types of restoration options—including retrofits and coatings—solve different problems, depending on the extent of damage and deterioration present, the types of threats the roof is likely to face, and your budget.
However, there are situations where a coating or retrofit is simply not a wise move. This is the case if your metal roof is severely compromised, with widespread leaks and damage that goes far beyond the roof’s surface. In these cases, a commercial roof replacement may be the only option.
Moser Roofing Solutions Can Help You Make the Right Roofing Decision
At Moser Roofing Solutions, we provide much more than high-quality commercial roofing services. We also provide education and expertise—an invaluable resource for business owners faced with the significant financial decision of what to do with their commercial roof.
We don’t provide one-size-fits-all solutions because in commercial roofing there simply are none. Instead, we work closely with each and every one of our clients to diagnose their roofing problems and choose the right solution for their business and their budget—every time.
A metal roof restoration may be the right solution for your flat or low slope roofing system, but it isn’t the only option. Contact us today to schedule an inspection from our expert roofing contractors.
