With respect to roofs, an easy and costly solution is to completely replace the roof. However, what if it was possible to repair or to restore the roof, instead of completely replacing it? Below is a situation where the client is footed a million dollar replacement bill and they searched for a second opinion.
Challenge
A midwestern motorcycle manufacturer had their hands full with an abundance of issues with their 100-plus-year-old buildings, including a leaking roof. The skylights were a water entry and energy issue. The masonry parapet walls were also a source of water entry. They were advised by a roofing contractor that a $1-2 million roof replacement was necessary. Unfortunately, the proposed roof replacement addressed only some of the issues.
Solution
Develop a detailed recommendation that:
- Offered a long term solution
- Saved capital dollars and reduced the project cost by 50%
- Addressed the skylight and structural issues
- Reduced the energy issues
- Less disruptive and quicker
- Addressed the masonry issues
The dilapidated, leaky roofs were restored and came with a complete system warranty. This new solution was twice the cost but was more long-term and sustainable compared to what was proposed by the contractor.
Results
The roof did not require any extensive repairs or replacements. The recommendations included: roof restoration, removal of wet roof areas, removal of the skylights, and designing a structural solution to the skylight replacement. In addition to saving significant capital dollars, this also prevented debris that would have been sent to the landfill.
We see this scenario play out repeatedly: a quick response solution that ignores underlying issues and costs significantly more. Registered Roof Consultants look for solutions and offer a roof restoration option. It doesn’t just save roofs; this keeps harmful material from going into landfills needlessly, and significant cost savings versus a complete replacement. Restoration is also less disruptive, faster, and covered by a warranty.
We found that half of the roofs being replaced are unnecessary, which means precious materials go to landfills and business owners waste time and money. It might seem like the only logical solution, but, to be sure, get a second opinion and make restoration an option as the new norm.
