Project Overview:
Located in Cleveland, Ohio, University Studios is a multi-roof apartment building that was experiencing leaks and energy inefficiencies. The property management team turned to West Roofing Systems for a long-term solution that would seal the existing roof, eliminate future water intrusion, and improve insulation performance without a costly tear-off.
Project Details
- Building Name: University Studios
- Location: Cleveland, OH
- Roof Size: Approximately 12,000 square feet (three roofs)
- Roof Type Before: Gravel-built-up roof
- Roof Type After: Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) roofing system
- Warranty: 20-Year Full System, NDL Warranty
Challenges
University Studios’ roofs had reached the end of their service life. Years of patching and repairs weren’t holding up, and continued leaks were disrupting tenants. The owners needed a solution that minimized downtime and avoided the cost and mess of a complete tear-off.
Our Solution
After evaluating the existing conditions, West Roofing Systems recommended installing a Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) roofing system. This system allowed the team to restore the roof rather than replace it — applying spray foam directly over the cleaned and prepped substrate.
The application process included:
- Cleaning and preparing the existing roof surface
- Spraying an average of 1.5 inches of closed-cell SPF for seamless waterproofing and added insulation
- Applying 30 mils of silicone roof coating (15 mils base coat + 15 mils top coat) for UV protection and durability
- Broadcasting granules into the top coat for enhanced traction and weather resistance
NOTE: Some areas needed 4″ of spray foam. This is because the roof section was considered new construction, which must hit a minimum R-value of 25.
Results
- No More Leaks: The monolithic SPF roof sealed all penetrations and joints.
- Energy Savings: Added R-value reduces HVAC load and stabilizes interior temperatures.
- Minimal Disruption: No tear-off meant no debris, noise, or tenant inconvenience.
- Longevity: The 20-year warranty provides peace of mind and the option for renewal at the end of the term.
Why Spray Foam Was the Right Choice
Spray foam roofing was ideal for University Studios because it:
- Gives the ability to manipulate the slope
- Avoids the complete tear-off
- Conforms to complex roof shapes and penetrations
- Bonds directly to most existing substrates, reducing tear-off waste
- Provides a continuous, seamless barrier against water
- Offers one of the best life-cycle costs in commercial roofing
Final Outcome
The restored spray foam system gave University Studios a watertight, energy-efficient roof with long-term protection. The property owner avoided a costly replacement and received a warranty-backed solution that will last decades with simple maintenance.
Project Snapshot
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Building Type | Multi-unit residential (apartments) |
| Roof Area | 12,000 sq ft – 3 total roofs |
| System Installed | Spray Polyurethane Foam + Silicone Coating |
| Warranty | 20 Years, Full System NDL |
| Location | Cleveland, OH |
Interested in a Spray Foam Roof Restoration?
If your commercial or multi-unit property is facing leaks or rising energy costs, spray foam roofing can be a cost-effective, renewable alternative to a full tear-off.
Request a free roof evaluation from West Roofing Systems today to learn how spray foam can restore your roof.
Want to learn more?
Here’s the PDF of the project profile that contains more information.
