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LIFECYCLE COSTS OF SPRAYFOAM ROOFING SYSTEMS

INTRODUCTION

What is the lifecycle of a sprayfoam roofing system? What is the lifecycle of a traditional roofing system?

For years, the prevailing marketing pitch for spray polyurethane foam (SPF) roofing systems is the energy savings. A glance at marketing in the industry shows a near-singular focus on how much a property owner, corporation, or institution can save on their energy bills by choosing SPF roofing solutions over conventional membrane systems.

HOW LONG WILL A ROOFING SYSTEM LAST?

To understand any of the findings, we must first understand the typical lifespan of roofing systems. In general, most industry experts find the life spans of roofing systems anywhere from 15-40 years.

Let’s take that as a general range for understanding your roof life.

SPRAY POLYURETHANE FOAM INSULATION ROOFING WILL LIKELY COST YOU LESS

A now-aging cost analysis assessment was conducted by the SPFA and Michelson Technology LLC, using data from 2000, and published in 2003. That study was further updated with more current costs in 2009.

Understanding how much a roof will cost you requires considering the following:

  • The initial cost per square foot
  • The initial coating cost per square foot
  • The tear-off price per square foot
  • Any ongoing maintenance costs

In 2003, Michelsen’s study found a range of savings over 30 years by going with an SPF roofing system between 12% (if the roof was recoated every six years) and 56% if the roof was recoated once at the 15-year mark.

Michelsen also factored in energy savings due to reflective coatings (such as those in the Rugged Roofing System).

Even still, a 2017 report found significant initial and long-term (30-year life) savings by using an SPF roofing system. “Even with the energy benefit deducted, an SPF roofing system

recoated every 15 years is still less costly to install and maintain than a very low-cost membrane roofing system.”[1] Moreover, even when Michelsen’s figures are adjusted with more recent costs, the life cycle costs still stand up, even as construction material costs have increased.

Typical Cost of 20,000’ SPF Roofing System in Southern California Compared to Membrane System over 30 years, adjusted for 2017 costs

CONCLUSION

Ultimately, SPF roofing systems continue to be one of the most cost-effective solutions on the market, particularly when compared over the roof’s total life span.

At Rugged Coatings®, we are here to help our contractors. Our team has resources to help you win bids and grow your business. Contact our team today to discuss how the cost benefits of SPF roofing systems can be used to beat out the competition in your area!

[1] https://silo.tips/download/specifying-spf-roofing-systems