A Star Decorators

Buyer comparison

TOR coating vs full roof replacement

A weathered commercial roof does not always need stripping back to the deck. A compatible coating system may retain a sound underlying roof, subject to survey and manufacturer specification.

Option 01

TOR coating overlay

A manufacturer-specified liquid coating system applied over a compatible existing roof. Primer and coating build follow the selected product data sheets.

Where it wins

  • Keeps a suitable existing roof build-up in place
  • Roof stays operational during application
  • No tear off cost or landfill
  • Avoids replacement work where the existing system remains suitable
  • Suitable for felt, single ply, asphalt, metal profile

Trade offs

  • Underlying membrane has to be sound. Failures get flagged at survey
  • Weather window required for application
  • Won't fix structural deck problems
Indicative cost
Survey-priced from substrate condition, preparation, access and system build-up
Service life
Depends on the selected manufacturer system and surveyed substrate

Option 02

Full roof replacement

Strip the existing roof to deck. New insulation, new membrane, new flashings. Full BBA certified system from scratch.

Where it wins

  • Brand new system specified for the full roof build-up
  • Opportunity to upgrade insulation, falls, drainage
  • New system carries its own manufacturer terms

Trade offs

  • Higher capital cost than a compatible coating overlay
  • Roof out of use during works. Significant disruption
  • Tear off generates landfill cost
  • Often requires scaffold and edge protection upgrades
  • Long programme on bigger roofs
Indicative cost
Specialist replacement quote required, including access, waste and insulation
Service life
Per the selected roof system's documented design and warranty terms

The honest answer

Which one is right for your scheme?

Pick a coating overlay if the underlying roof is structurally sound and a manufacturer supports a compatible system. Pick replacement if the system has failed, insulation is wet, or the falls and drainage need redesigning. The route is decided after a roof walk, moisture test and substrate condition record, not on price alone.

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We will review the service route, access, preparation, finish and likely next step before the job is priced properly.

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