www.mrca.org — Midwest Roofer 28 TECHNICAL & RESEARCH assets, including the roof. A silicone roof coating helps avoid an expensive roof tear-off, and the difference in price is significant: a silicone roof coating costs around $2-4 per square foot, whereas a complete tear-off can cost around $6-8 per square foot. In addition, a tear-off takes much longer to remove, costs money to haul away and dump the existing roof in a landfill, and adds expenses for the new roof material and installation. Labor represents a significant portion of the cost of a full roof replacement, often accounting for nearly half of the total installed price. Depending on location and project complexity, labor costs for tear-off and replacement can range from approximately $3–$7 per square foot, with higher rates common in urban markets. Some contractors may also charge hourly, typically in the range of $40–$80 per hour, with costs increasing for hard- to-access roofs, limited workspace, or multi-story buildings without freight elevators.2 In addition to installation labour, existing roofing materials must be removed before replacement. Tear-off costs typically increase with each additional roof layer, averaging: • $90–$140 per 100 square feet for one layer • $110–$160 for two layers • $120–$170 for three layers These labour-intensive steps further widen the cost gap between full replacement and roof restoration options, which generally require fewer workers and shorter installation timelines. Since tenants pay their electric bills, they will appreciate the lower operating costs and increased lease value. This helps ensure that tenants are more satisfied and, as a result, become long- term renters. Additionally, many businesses are environmentally conscious and want to lease buildings from forward-thinking building owners, developers, and property management companies. Reduced maintenance and investment protection Controlling unplanned maintenance expenses is the most effective way to reduce costs and tenant frustration while protecting owners’ assets. This strategy is especially valuable when applied to properties throughout the portfolio. One of the most expensive and vulnerable assets of a commercial building is the roof. Leaks from a damaged roof are not only a nuisance but also destructive to every part of the roof assembly and what is under the roof, including tenants’ property and equipment. By counseling customers about the benefits of a silicone roof coating, contractors help reduce their roof maintenance expenses while providing a cost-effective solution that delivers an excellent ROI. Continued from page 27 Prior to applying silicone roof coatings, the team inspected and prepared the surface.
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