How much does commercial roof installation cost in Houston?
Costs vary by system, deck condition, and square footage, but most single-ply membrane installations on Houston commercial buildings run in the $6–$12 per square foot range, with metal and PVC systems typically at the higher end. We provide a written, itemized estimate after a roof measurement and moisture scan, not a phone quote.
Is a moisture scan required before every commercial roof installation?
We recommend one on any building over 5 years old, since wet insulation isn’t visible from the roof surface and directly affects whether a recover is an option. Infrared or core-cut scans are typically completed within a day and are included in the assessment before your estimate is finalized.
Can you install a new roof over an existing metal roof?
In some cases, yes — a retrofit system can be installed over an existing standing-seam or through-fastened metal roof if the structure and fastening pattern meet current load requirements. This depends on the building’s structural engineering and is confirmed on-site before it’s proposed as an option.
What’s the difference between mechanically-attached and fully-adhered membrane systems?
Mechanically-attached systems use fasteners and plates through the insulation into the deck, generally faster to install and lower cost. Fully-adhered systems use adhesive across the full membrane surface, offering higher wind resistance and a cleaner rooftop for buildings with foot traffic. Wind exposure category and rooftop use typically determine which is appropriate.
Do you handle the structural engineering review for a new roof system?
We work with a licensed structural engineer when a project requires a stamped wind-uplift letter or load analysis, particularly for commercial roof installation projects adding rooftop equipment or a heavier system than what currently exists. That documentation is included in your permit submission.
How is roof drainage designed for a flat commercial roof?
Drainage is calculated from the roof’s square footage, local rainfall intensity data, and the number and placement of existing drains or scuppers. Where ponding has been a chronic issue, tapered insulation systems are used to redirect water to drains rather than relying on the original deck slope alone.
What happens if hidden roof deck damage is found during tear-off?
Deck repair or replacement is priced separately as a change order once the extent of damage is confirmed, since it isn’t visible until the old membrane and insulation are removed. We photograph and document any deck damage found before repair, so it’s verifiable for your records and, if applicable, insurance claim.
Can commercial roof installation be scheduled around a tenant’s business hours?
Yes, loud tear-off work such as fastening and equipment staging can often be scheduled outside peak tenant hours for retail and office properties, with membrane and detail work continuing during standard hours. This is coordinated with property management before the project start date.
Do you provide roof plans for insurance or lender requirements?
Yes — completed installations include a project closeout package with material specifications, wind-uplift documentation, warranty paperwork, and photos, which covers most insurance underwriting and commercial lender documentation requests.
What maintenance does a new commercial roof need in its first year?
New membrane roofs should have drains and scuppers checked quarterly for debris, and a full walk-through inspection after the first major storm event. We include a first-year inspection as part of the closeout package to catch any installation issues while they’re still covered under workmanship warranty.
Is there a difference between commercial and residential roof installation crews?
Yes — commercial low-slope systems (TPO, EPDM, PVC) require different tools, seaming equipment, and safety protocols than residential shingle or tile installation. Our commercial crews are trained and equipped specifically for single-ply membrane and metal panel systems on flat and low-slope roofs.
How do you protect the building interior during installation?
Interior protection depends on the building’s use — for occupied retail or office space, we coordinate dust barriers and moisture protection over sensitive areas below the work zone, and schedule tear-off sections to minimize the time any part of the roof deck is exposed to weather.