How Long Does a Commercial Roof Installation Take?

Any type of construction project sounds daunting, especially if you’re a commercial property owner or facility manager. While cost is always a roof installation concern, business continuity is the one we hear the most about.

You need a new roof, but you also need to know: how long will my operations be disrupted?

The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. A commercial roof installation timeline varies widely, from a few days to several weeks, and even a month or more for very large or complex projects. And that’s without taking Chicagoland’s weather into account.

But if you work with a trusted commercial roofing company, they’ll help you plan effectively and minimize any potential impact on your business.

A General Timeline for a Commercial Roof Installation

For a small to medium-sized commercial building with a relatively straightforward flat or low-slope roof, the installation process should take between one and three weeks. 

This is a typical timeframe for projects that don’t encounter unexpected issues.

But understand that there are a lot of different factors at play that can easily turn a one-week project into something longer.

A reputable commercial roofing contractor performs a comprehensive assessment to give you a personalized and accurate estimate before any work begins.

5 Factors that Impact the Commercial Roof Installation Timeline

What factors cause a project to take a few days versus several weeks? 

Here are the most significant variables we consider during our initial assessment.

1. Size and Complexity of the Roof

This is the most obvious one.

A larger roof surface naturally requires more time and labor to cover with new materials. 

In addition to the sheer size, a roof’s complexity plays a considerable role. 

Features such as multiple levels, varied slopes, numerous angles, and a high number of rooftop penetrations (like skylights, vents, HVAC units, or exhaust fans) all add to the timeline. 

2. Type of Roofing System

The material you choose for your new roof is a significant determinant of the installation timeline. 

Different roofing systems have distinct application methods and require different levels of labor intensity.

Single-Ply Membranes (TPO, EPDM, PVC) are some of the most popular commercial roofing options today. 

Because they come in large, flexible rolls, they can be installed relatively quickly. 

This efficiency is a primary reason why many single-ply projects are completed on the shorter end of the timeline.

Built-Up Roofing (BUR) and Modified Bitumen are multi-layered systems, often requiring hot asphalt to be applied between layers. 

This process is inherently more labor-intensive and time-consuming than single-ply installation, as each layer must be carefully placed and bonded.

Known for its durability and longevity, metal roofing is a popular choice, but its installation is also one of the most intricate. 

The process involves precise measurement, cutting, and fastening of each panel, which can significantly extend the project timeline.

3. Condition of the Existing Roof

Before we can install a new roof, we have to deal with the old one. 

This is where a major decision comes into play: a “tear-off” or a “recovery” (also known as a roof-over).

If the existing roof is in good structural shape and only has one layer, we can sometimes install a new membrane directly over it. This method saves significant time and disposal costs.

If the existing roof is damaged, leaking, or already has multiple layers, a complete tear-off is the only option. 

This demolition phase adds to the project’s length, as our crews must safely remove and dispose of all old materials. 

Furthermore, a tear-off often reveals hidden damage to the underlying roof deck, such as rot or mold. 

Finding and repairing these issues is a crucial step that can add several days to the schedule.

4. Weather Conditions

In the Chicagoland area, weather is the wild card that can affect even the best-laid plans. Roofing is a job that simply cannot be done in certain conditions. 

Rain, snow, and extreme temperatures can make it unsafe for crews and compromise the quality of the installation. 

For example, some adhesives and coatings require specific temperatures to cure properly. 

While Ridgeworth Roofing meticulously plans for these contingencies, we always prioritize the safety of our team and the integrity of your new roof, which means a weather-related delay may be unavoidable.

5. Permits and Inspections

Finally, a legitimate commercial roofing project requires navigating local regulations. 

The process involves securing the necessary permits from the city or municipality and scheduling inspections at various stages of the project. 

This is a non-negotiable step that ensures your new roof is up to code and meets all safety standards. 

An experienced contractor like Ridgeworth will handle all the paperwork and logistics. However, the timeline can still be influenced by the speed at which permits are issued and inspections are scheduled.

Why Choose Ridgeworth Roofing for Your Commercial Roof Installation?

At Ridgeworth Roofing, providing a transparent and realistic timeline is just as important as delivering a high-quality finished product. 

Our process is designed to minimize disruptions to your business from start to finish.

We begin with a thorough inspection to assess all the factors mentioned above. 

This allows us to provide you with a highly accurate timeline and a detailed, custom plan tailored to your building’s specific needs. 

Our project managers work closely with you to coordinate schedules, ensuring we are on-site and working efficiently. 

We also take great pride in our commitment to safety, adhering to all state and local regulations to create a secure work environment for everyone.

Call Ridgeworth Roofing to Get Your Accurate Timeline Today

The best way to get a clear answer to “how long does a commercial roof installation take?” is to talk to a professional. 

Every building is unique, and a quick, cookie-cutter estimate simply won’t cut it. 

Contact Ridgeworth Roofing today to schedule your complimentary inspection. 

We’ll provide you with a comprehensive plan and a timeline you can count on, so you can focus on running your business with peace of mind.