Pros and Cons of Foam Commercial Roofing Systems

Choosing the best commercial roofing system can be daunting — and, as you run into unfamiliar terms, you may feel like you need to become a roofing expert to make an informed decision.

While that’s not entirely true, every business owner deserves to know precisely how the roof over their head will serve their business. This quick guide addresses the pros and cons of a foam roofing system, looking at their cost, installation, and environmental benefits.

What Is Foam Roofing?

A foam roofing system, also called spray polyurethane foam (SPF) roofing, is a multi-component roofing solution that’s directly sprayed onto your commercial building’s flat roof to create a strong, durable, and lightweight layer of protection.

SPF roofing can be applied over your existing roof deck for seamless coverage that leaves no entry point for water while providing excellent insulation that reduces your energy costs in the long term. It’s no wonder that so many businesses opt for energy saving foam roofing!

The Benefits of Foam Roofing Systems

Affordability, durability, and easy installation are among the strongest benefits of foam roofing systems. Let’s explore what that looks like in practice.

Affordable Commercial Roofing

Foam roofing systems have a very reasonable cost per square foot — but that’s not where the magic lies. Consider this. Foam commercial roofing isn’t only quick to install, reducing the labor costs you incur, but it can also be applied over existing commercial roofing, slashing the cost associated with tear-offs. Once installed, foam roofing is low-maintenance, reducing your ongoing expenses.

Easy Installation

Quick and easy installation is one of the most impressive benefits of foam roofing systems. You’ll get a durable new roof with extremely minimal disruptions to all your daily operations. With any luck, you won’t even notice that your team of roofers was hard at work!

Energy Saving Roof System with Environmental Benefits

Foam roofing helps you regulate your commercial building’s temperature throughout the year, keeping it cool in summer and warm in winter. While that translates to savings, it provides additional benefits to environmentally-conscious businesses, including those looking to improve ESG scores, as SPF roofing is also associated with a low carbon footprint.

Versatile Commercial Roofing

In terms of structural advantages, foam roofing systems are lightweight, great for a wide range of commercial roofs (including those with irregular shapes), durable (with a lifespan of 20 to 50 years), and able to provide seamless coverage around roof penetrations like HVAC systems.

The Drawbacks of Foam Roofing Systems for Commercial Buildings

No system is perfect, and business owners in the process of selecting a commercial roof deserve to be aware of the potential drawbacks, too. While foam roofing benefits ultimately outweigh the cons in many cases, you should know that:

Commercial foam roofing systems are easy to install, but the installation does require specialized training and equipment. Hiring a roofing contractor without extensive experience in installing SPF roofs can result in poor adhesion.
Foam commercial roofing degrades over time as a result of UV exposure. A reflective top coat can mitigate this concern.
Some business owners may consider the aesthetic that foam roofing systems offer unappealing, and although coatings can change the color, not everyone will be happy with the final look.

Look for the Best Contractors in Foam Commercial Roofing Today

Are you in search of commercial roofing contractors? Considering a foam roofing system as an affordable and energy saving solution?

White Roofing Systems has the Conklin-trained roofers you’re looking for! Our contractors have extensive experience in installing foam commercial roofing. They’re happy to answer any questions you may have about the pros and cons of foam roofing for your particular use case.