The Ultimate Guide to Spray Foam Roofing (Costs, Problems, and Alternatives)

Here's what's covered:


  1. How much does a spray foam roof cost per square foot?
  2. What common problems do spray foam roofs have?
  3. SPF vs TPO - which system is better?
  4. How is a spray foam roof installed?
  5. How does maintenance work after a spray foam roof is installed?
  6. What warranty options are available?
  7. How long will a spray foam roof last?


spray foam roofing being installed over an exiting commercial roof in Elyria, Ohio

1. How much does a spray foam roof cost per square foot?

A spray foam roof usually costs $5-$10 per square foot. There are many variables that influence cost, such as warranty length, spray foam thickness, and roof preparation.


This article explains all the variables that can influence the cost of a spray foam roofing system.




2. What common problems do spray foam roofs have?


Common problems are that very few know how to install a spray foam roof properly, and there's overspray risk.


This article explains all the problems with spray foam roofing systems.




3. SPF vs TPO - which system is better?


For a flat roof with no ponding water and very few penetrations, TPO is likely more cost-effective on the install. For everything else, spray foam is more cost-effective.


This article explains the scenarios in which spray foam or TPO is the better option.




Completed commercial roofing section of a spray foam roof install in Berea, Ohio

4. How is a spray foam roof installed?


Two 55-gallon drums (an A-side and a B-side) are pumped, heated, and transferred through a hose to a spray gun, where the spray foam comes out as a liquid.


This article explains how a spray foam roof is installed.


If you want to see video, it's below:




5. How does maintenance work after a spray foam roof is installed?


A contractor shows up at least once per year to inspect for any punctures in the roof, thin coating, and drainage issues.


This article explains in more detail how to maintain a spray foam roof.




6. What warranty options are available after a spray foam roof is installed?


10, 15, or 20-years are the current options. The thickness of the protective coating installed over the spray foam determines the warranty length.


  • 10 years = 20 total mils of coating
  • 15 years = 25 total mils of coating
  • 20 years = 30 total mils of coating


This article explains in more detail how the warranty is granted after a spray foam roofing installation.



Completed spray foam roof in Elyria Ohio

7. How long will a spray foam roof last?


A spray foam roof should last as long as the building is up. The reason is renewability. A spray foam roof can be recoated over and over again without losing performance.


This article explains in more detail how renewability (and sustainability) works on a spray foam roof.


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