When you’re staring at your budget sheet, teetering between a commercial roof restoration or a full replacement, how can you know what gives you the best return? 

We’re putting these two paths against each other to decide which will save you the most money long term. 

The Difference Between Commercial Roof Restoration and Commercial Roof Replacement

Commercial Roof Restoration

Commercial roof restoration is the process of fixing small leaks and minor issues to extend the life and quality of your roof. If your roof is structurally sound, but showing signs of small leaks or damages, a commercial roof restoration is a cost-effective option. 

The restoration process for a commercial roof usually involves 2 steps.

  1. Inspection: Thoroughly removing debris and buildup, as well as an inspection to make sure repair is still a suitable course.
  2. Repairs: Sealing any holes and repairing the damage discovered during inspection — this also includes fixing any necessary areas and seams. 

Commercial Roof Replacement

A full commercial roof replacement is exactly like it sounds — the removal of your entire roof. Knowing when your commercial building needs a full replacement includes multiple factors:

  • Your commercial roof has reached the end of its recommended lifespan (20–30 years)
  • You’re noticing extensive damages to the roof or ceiling tiles of your business. 
  • You’ve been recommended for multiple repairs, but the list keeps piling up

If any of these items are true, it’s best to get an expert on site to assess the situation.

Pros and Cons

Now that you understand the difference between commercial roof restoration vs. replacement, let’s review the pros and cons of each option. 

A commercial roof restoration is the most cost-effective option. There is less interruption to your operations with less time on-site — which means lower labor costs. With proper maintenance, a restoration can extend the life of your current roof.

A con of getting your commercial roof restored is that it might not be the right choice for your roof if the damage is too extensive. If all of your insulation is saturated, or your roof is experiencing structural issues, repairs won’t solve your underlying issues. 

If you’re thinking a commercial roof replacement is the right choice for you, there are plenty of pros. A fresh warranty, strong structural integrity, and a long-term solution to your roofing worries are just a few.

There are some cons to consider, though. A roof replacement costs much more than a few repairs would. A full replacement may also disrupt your daily operations. 

The Money Saving Choice 

The best choice for your commercial roof depends on its current state. However, doing everything you can to repair your roof with regular maintenance will save you thousands of dollars in the long run. With Weather Shield’s Max Life Roof Care Program we guarantee to never replace your roof before it needs to be — costing you less per year than the annual cost of owning a new roof.

In the end, the best option is to evaluate the current condition of your roof, and get a certified expert to complete an inspection. Contact our team of experts to get started.