So what is the cost per square foot? Or what is the range of the cost per square foot for a bay area foam roof (high end, low end)? Reply
The foam roof should be cheaper since it takes little labor. The roof can be done in 2 days by 2 persons. The materials cost is about $3,thus the profit is very large. Such roof should not cost more than $10,000 for 2,000 sq ft house. Reply
For 1,500 square foot roof area the cost should not be higher than $10,000. Materials are cheap and this is a spraying job. Overall less labor and material costs than for any other roof like tar and gravel or membrane. Reply
The US costs are shown starting at $2.50 per square foot. Probably in Alabama. In the Bay Area it should be about $5 per square foot. Contractors artificially increase the price to match the pricing of labor intensive roofs. E.g. not what our cost plus profit but what the market can bear. Reply
Ben: There’s no artificial increase. This is economics 101; in the Wealth of Nations, Adam Smith tells us that in a free market economy (which is what the USA is, for all practical purposes) price is determined by “rent of land”, “cost of [employee] wages” and “profit of stock” (compensates the capitalist for risking his resources). The Bay Area is also a free market economy, so the price you see matches the cost. Scott: that’s too big of a generalization. Square foot is only one factor in the cost of a roof. Does the roof need to be torn off? Are there many pipes, and skylights or other roof penetrations? Is this just a 1 story building or is a 4 story building where additional precautions (costs) must be taken to keep the workers safe? Also, tar & gravel & membrane are very cheap materials. Foam roofing is a more expensive, more durable, higher quality material. I’ve never seen a membrane or tar and gravel roof last 30+ years. However, it’s not uncommon for a foam roof to last 30+ years. Additionaly, how much foam is being applied to the roof? 1″? 1.5″? 2″? This will also effect the cost. Finally, the quality of the coating (e.g. thickness, fire rating, & other factors) will effect the cost too. Reply
I would like to know how a foam roof fares during fire? Is it easily flammable? I want to apply this type of roof to a home that is surrounded by an area where grass fires can occur, and the roof could be subject to burning embers during a fire. How does it compare to behavior of a roof that is a shake roof, a roof with fiberglass shingles, and of course a BUF of membrane, tar and gravel. Thanks! Reply
This article provides an interesting insight in to foam roofing. Concerned people can use this article for attaining useful information. Reply
Assuming a flat roof has a foam roof over the old asphalt roof, could one readily lay a wooden platform over it and walk on it? Reply
Yes, laying wood planks directly over the roof surface is possible. However, you may find dirt to collect over time and result in obstructed drainage. Integrating stainless steel supports for a slightly elevated deck structure is one of the best long-term solutions I’ve seen. Reply
A recoat should not be considered a new roof, but rather, a maintenance procedure to prolong the life of an existing foam roof. Reply
This is absolutely great foam roofing cost comparison. Thanks for sharing great info. Keep up the great work. Reply