Elkhart Commercial Roofing FAQs

1. How much does a commercial roofing project typically cost?​

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The cost of a commercial roofing project can vary widely based on factors like roof size, material choice, complexity of the installation, and even location. Generally, commercial roof replacement costs are calculated per square foot – often in the range of about $4 to $6 per square foot for coating and restoration systems and $7 to $15 per square foot for standard/membrane flat roofing systems as of 2024. Premium material systems or complex tear-offs can be higher; for example, tearing off 3 layers and installing an above average impact resistant system with HD board can be over $20 per square foot.

 

In practical terms, a small flat roof on a single-story building could cost around tens of thousands of dollars, whereas a large multi-story facility’s new roof might be in the hundreds of thousands. Green Improvements will provide a detailed, written proposal tailored to your building after an on-site evaluation. We strive to find the most cost-effective solution for your needs and budget within how it relates to your long term goals for said facility, and we’re happy to explain how each cost factor (materials, labor, tear-off, etc.) contributes to the final price.

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2. How long will my commercial roofing project take to complete?​​

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Project timelines depend on the size of your roof, the type of roofing system being installed, and the project’s complexity. Most straightforward commercial re-roofing jobs (for example, replacing a moderate-sized flat roof) can be completed in a few days to a couple of weeks. Larger or more complex projects – such as very expansive roofs, those with many penetrations/curbs, or multi-level sections – may take several weeks up to a month or more.

 

For instance, re-roofing a small building might be done in under a week, whereas a sprawling facility or high-rise could take four to six weeks including tear-off and installation. Green Improvements will give you a project schedule upfront and keep you updated as the project progresses, utilizing professional and easy to digest photo reports. We also factor in weather contingencies (since rain or high winds can cause brief delays) and we coordinate work to minimize disruption to your operations as much as possible. Our goal is to finish on time and get your business back to normal quickly, without sacrificing quality or safety.

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3. What types of commercial roofing systems are available, and how do I choose the right one?​

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Commercial roofs come in several types, each with its own advantages. Green Improvements specializes in all major commercial roofing systems, including:

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• Single-ply membrane roofs - These are popular for flat and low-slope buildings. They include TPO, PVC, and EPDM membranes. For example, TPO is currently one of the most common commercial roofing materials – it’s a white, reflective membrane that helps reduce cooling costs. PVC is similarly reflective and more resistant to chemicals/grease (great for restaurants or industrial/chemical buildings).
  
   

• Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) – SPF is a sprayed-on foam that forms a monolithic insulated roof surface, often used to re-cover existing flat roofs with added insulation. Reflective roof coatings (urethane or acrylic, for example) can also be applied to rejuvenate an existing roof and improve energy efficiency (often creating a “cool roof” by reflecting sunlight).

 

• Roof Coatings - Coatings (urethane or acrylics) are at times the perfect solution for preventative maintenance and lifespan extension on existing roofing systems, many of which come with amazing warranties and performance guarantees. For good reason many coating or fluid applied roof systems and contractors have earned a reputation for being a scam or ilegitate, however, with the right roof assessments and the project guided by a trusted building consultant or experienced contractor, coatings are amongst the smartest investments for commercial real estate owners and investors.
   

• Green Roofs – These are vegetative roofs that cover the roof membrane with plants and soil media (more on these in a later FAQ). They are less common but growing in popularity for eco-conscious building designs and institutions.
   

How to choose? The best roofing system for your building depends on your specific situation – things like your climate, the building’s design (flat vs. sloped roof), what the building is used for, budget constraints, and energy efficiency goals. Our Green Improvements team will guide you through this decision. For instance, if energy efficiency is a priority and you have a flat roof, a light-colored TPO or PVC single-ply might be recommended for its reflective properties. If your roof sees heavy foot traffic (say, maintenance workers accessing HVAC equipment regularly), a durable multi-ply or a thicker membrane with walkway pads could be better. We take into account lifespan, warranty options, and maintenance when presenting you with choices. In short, we’ll explain the pros and cons of each system and help you make an informed choice that suits your building’s needs and your long-term investment.

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4. What kind of maintenance does a commercial roof require, and how often?​

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Regular maintenance is key to getting the maximum life out of a commercial roof. We recommend having your roof inspected and maintained at least twice a year (typically once in the spring and once in the fall). During a maintenance visit, our technicians at Green Improvements will walk the roof to: clean off debris (like leaves, branches, dirt that can clog drains), check all drains and gutters to ensure they’re clear, and examine the membrane or roof surface for any signs of damage (like small tears, punctures, or ponding water). We also look closely at flashings around edges and penetrations (vents, skylights, HVAC units) to make sure they’re secure and sealed. Small issues such as a cracked sealant or a loose piece of flashing can be fixed on the spot before they turn into serious leaks.

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We also advise that you get an extra inspection after any major weather event (for example, a hail storm or very high winds) just to be safe, even if it’s outside the semi-annual schedule. Preventive maintenance is relatively very low-cost and can add years of service life to your roof. In fact, studies have shown that roofs under proactive maintenance programs last significantly longer. By investing in routine upkeep, you’ll spend less over time (as you can avoid or minimize costly repairs and delay the need for a full replacement). Green Improvements offers affordable maintenance plans and will provide you with a maintenance checklist and photo documentation after each visit, so you know the condition of your roof.

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5. What warranties are available for commercial roofs, and what do they cover?

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New commercial roofing systems often come with strong warranty protections. Green Improvements provides our clients with both manufacturer warranties and workmanship warranties for peace of mind. A manufacturer’s warranty covers the roofing materials (membrane, etc.) for a certain period - often anywhere from 10 years up to 30 years, depending on the product and warranty level. For example, many common commercial roof warranties are about 15 - 20 years long for standard installations, but you can often opt for longer coverage (25 - 30 year warranties) by choosing thicker or premium materials and having the installation inspected/certified by the manufacturer. These manufacturer warranties typically ensure that if the material fails or a leak occurs due to a defect in the product or an approved installation, the manufacturer will cover the cost of repairs (and sometimes labor) during that term.

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In addition, Green Improvements stands behind our work with a workmanship (installation) warranty. This directly covers you against installation errors or defects in our labor and if an issue arises due to something we did incorrectly during installation, we’ll fix it at no cost to you under our workmanship guarantee.

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It’s important to understand what warranties do and don’t cover. Roofing warranties cover defects or failures in materials and installation, but they generally do not cover external factors or routine maintenance-related issues. For instance, if a storm causes physical damage to the roof, that’s usually an insurance matter, not a warranty claim. Similarly, a warranty won’t cover normal wear-and-tear or problems caused by neglect (e.g. if you never remove debris or you allow unauthorized repairs that damage the membrane). Manufacturer warranties also require that you perform basic maintenance and inspections – neglecting maintenance could void your coverage. We will walk you through the specific warranty terms for your roof system. You’ll know the length of coverage, any maintenance documentation requirements, and the process to file a claim if something goes wrong. Rest assured, we use high-quality materials and our crews are certified, so warranty issues are rare – but you’ll have that protection in place for decades just in case.

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6. How often should I have my commercial roof inspected?​

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It is generally recommended to have your commercial roof inspected at least twice a year (semi-annually) under normal conditions. The ideal schedule is once in the spring and once in the fall. A spring inspection checks for any damage that might have occurred over the winter (freeze-thaw effects, snow or ice damage), and a fall inspection makes sure the roof is in good shape heading into the harsher winter months. In addition to these regular check-ups, you should also schedule an inspection after any severe weather events that could cause damage – for example, after a hailstorm, a hurricane, or unusually strong winds, it’s wise to have a professional take a look even if things appear fine at first glance.

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These routine inspections are often required to maintain your warranty coverage, and they provide an opportunity to catch small issues early. Green Improvements offers comprehensive inspection services. During an inspection, we’ll assess the entire roof field, flashings, penetrations, and drainage systems. We’ll document any issues with photos and written reports for you. By staying on top of inspections, you’ll significantly reduce the risk of surprise leaks or costly damage, and you’ll extend the life of your roof through timely repairs. Many of our clients tie these inspections into a regular maintenance plan (as noted above) – this proactive approach is truly the best insurance against emergency roofing problems.

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7. What are the signs of roof damage or failure I should look out for?

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It’s good to be aware of warning signs that your commercial roof may need repair or replacement. Some common signs of damage or roof problems include:

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• Leaks or water stains inside the building: If you notice water dripping, ceiling stains, or mold/mildew, it’s a clear indicator that water is infiltrating through the roof or building envelope. Any interior leak is cause for immediate investigation.
   

• Standing water (ponding) on the roof: Flat roofs are designed with drainage in mind, so if you see puddles or ponded water that remain on the roof more than 48 hours after rain, it can signal a drainage issue. Ponding water can lead to membrane deterioration and leaks over time.
   

• Cracks, blisters, or bubbles in the roofing membrane or coating: These are signs of trapped moisture or age-related wear. Cracks and splits can let water in, and blistering/bubbling often indicates water or air trapped under the membrane. Any such surface damage should be evaluated and patched by a professional.
   

• Damaged or loose flashing and seams: Flashings are the metal pieces or membrane strips that seal the edges of the roof and objects protruding from it. If flashing is bent, missing, or no longer sealed, or if seams between roofing sheets are lifting, water can easily sneak in. Likewise, check that things like skylight curbs or HVAC unit curbs are properly sealed.
   

• Sagging or soft spots: If portions of the roof look saggy or you feel a “soft deck” underfoot, that could indicate underlying structural issues or saturated insulation (which gets heavy when wet). This is a serious warning sign that the roof’s integrity is compromised and needs prompt attention!
   

If you notice any of these red flags, give Green Improvements a call. We can perform a professional inspection to determine the extent of the issue. Catching problems early can often mean the difference between a minor repair and a major project. Additionally, we recommend keeping a log of any roof issues and repairs; a history can help us diagnose recurring problems (for example, a particular spot that leaks repeatedly might indicate a ponding area or underlying structural flaw).

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8. How does weather affect the roofing project schedule and the materials used?

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Weather is an important consideration in any roofing project. Safety and quality are our top priorities at Green Improvements, so we plan our work around weather conditions. In general, we avoid installing roofing materials during rain or snow, since a dry surface is critical for proper installation. Likewise, if high winds or lightning are in the area, we will temporarily pause work for the safety of the crew and your property. We closely monitor the forecast and communicate with you if we need to adjust the schedule due to weather - for example, we might shift a start date by a day or two to avoid a big storm that pops up.

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Temperature is also a crucial factor. Many roofing systems have recommended temperature ranges for installation. If it’s too cold, certain materials won’t adhere or seal correctly. For instance, single-ply membranes and their adhesives generally need it to be around 40°F (4°C) or warmer for proper curing. In freezing temperatures, adhesives can fail to bond and materials like asphalt shingles or modified bitumen can become brittle. On the other end, extremely hot weather (above ~85 - 90°F) can cause adhesives or asphalt to setup too quickly or make handling some materials more difficult. 

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We use weather-appropriate methods when needed – for example, if a cold-weather installation is unavoidable, we can most times change the specifications to a mechanically attached system. Some materials (like certain cold-applied adhesive systems or self-adhering membranes) are formulated to be more tolerant of lower temps, and we can choose those if we must do winter work. Additionally, we always make sure the roof is never left exposed. If weather shifts unexpectedly, our crew secures the roof with tarps or temporary coverings so that your building stays dry. In summary, Green Improvements will schedule your roofing project for a window of good weather, and we’re prepared to adapt as needed because Mother Nature doesn’t always play in the roofer’s favor. This might mean a bit of flexibility on the timeline, but it ensures you get a high-quality roof installation that isn’t compromised by adverse conditions.

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9. Who is responsible for insurance and permits during a roofing project?​

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Green Improvements will handle all the necessary building permits for your commercial roofing project. As a licensed commercial roofing contractor, we know the local building codes and permitting process inside out. We will apply for and obtain the required roofing permit from the city or county building department before work begins, and we schedule any needed inspections by building officials. Permit fees and arrangements are typically included in our project proposal – you won’t have to personally deal with the paperwork. In fact, if a contractor ever asks you to pull the permit yourself, that’s a red flag. (A reputable contractor will always take care of pulling permits for the job, ensuring the work is done to code and properly documented.)

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On the insurance side, there are a couple of aspects to consider:

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• Contractor Insurance: Green Improvements carries all required insurance for our operations – this includes general liability insurance (which protects your property in the unlikely event of any accidental damage) and workers’ compensation insurance (which covers our crew if there’s an on-the-job injury, so you are not liable). We’re happy to provide proof of insurance and licensing before the project. This is an important part of protecting you as the building owner.
   

• Property Insurance / Claims: If your roofing project is related to an insurance claim (for example, replacing a roof due to hail or storm damage that your insurance company is covering), we as a professional and insurance experienced contractor will be working directly with your insurance provider to handle the claim and ensure you receive adequate funding to perform all necessary work and fully indemnify your roof. Our role, in that case, is to support you through the process by providing a thorough inspection report and photos of damage to submit to your insurer, we’ll meet with the insurance adjuster and/or engineer to discuss the scope of damage, and use the proper pricing (often insurance estimates use Xactimate or similar) to make sure nothing is overlooked. Essentially, we act as your advocate to ensure the insurance company approves all necessary repairs or replacement per industry standards. While we aren’t the ones filing the claim (that’s done by the policyholder), we have lots of experience with insurance restoration work and will help make the process as smooth as possible for you.
   

In summary, Green Improvements takes care of permitting and has full insurance coverage for our work. You will need to maintain your own building insurance (and we always recommend notifying your insurer when significant work is done on your property). If an insurance claim is involved, we’ll guide you step-by-step. Our goal is to shield you from bureaucratic hassles so you can focus on running your business while we focus on your roof.

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10. Are there environmentally friendly or energy-efficient roofing options available?

Absolutely! Green Improvements is committed to sustainable building practices, and we offer several eco-friendly and energy-efficient roofing options:

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• Cool Roofs: A “cool roof” is designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than a standard roof. This is usually achieved with light-colored or reflective roofing membranes and coatings. For example, white TPO or PVC single-ply membranes, or a special reflective coating over a built-up roof, can significantly reduce the roof’s surface temperature. This keeps your building cooler and can cut down air conditioning costs. By reflecting the sun’s rays, cool roofs reduce the load on AC systems and shrink energy bills. Many cool roof materials are Energy Star® rated and may help with green building certifications or code requirements in 2025 (some areas now require commercial roofs to meet certain reflectivity standards for energy conservation).
   

• Green Roofs (Vegetative Roofs): A green roof is a layer of vegetation (plants, soil, and a special drainage system) installed over a waterproofing membrane. Instead of a bare membrane or gravel, you have a living garden on your roof! Green roofs provide natural insulation – they help keep the building cooler in summer and warmer in winter, reducing energy usage. They also absorb rainwater, which reduces stormwater runoff and alleviates stress on drainage systems. Additional benefits include extending the life of the roof membrane (by shielding it from UV and extreme temperature swings), improving air quality, and even creating natural habitats in urban areas. Our team can design extensive green roofs (with sedums and grasses that are low maintenance) or intensive ones (with deeper soil, shrubs, even walkways). Green roofs are a wonderful statement of environmental stewardship and can be very attractive amenity spaces if accessible.
  
   

• Additional Energy-Efficient Options: When installing any roof, we also look at the insulation. A key part of an energy-efficient roof is a high R-value (thermal resistance). We can upgrade the insulation above your deck to meet or exceed current energy codes – this saves on heating and cooling costs immediately. There are also roofing materials made from recycled content (some insulation boards, or membrane products that are recyclable). We use low-VOC adhesives and environmentally responsible practices during installation as well. If certification programs like LEED or Green Globes are a goal for your project, we will help choose roofing components that earn those credits (for reflectivity, recycled content, stormwater management, etc.).
   

In short, there are many roofing options that are environmentally friendly. From cool roofs that reflect sunlight and reduce the urban heat island effect, to lush green roofs that turn unused roof space into a functional garden, to solar roofs that produce renewable energy – Green Improvements can incorporate these features into your commercial roofing project. We stay up-to-date on the latest green roofing technologies in 2025, and we’ll happily discuss which solutions make the most sense for your building and budget. Not only can these options save on energy costs and potentially earn you tax credits or incentives, but they also demonstrate your commitment to sustainability, which is a great message to send to your clients and community.