CASE STUDY · INSTITUTIONAL & MUNICIPAL
How Integrity Pro Roofing Helped the Denver Zoo Save 60–70% on Roofing Costs While Extending Roof Life
60–70%
Cost Savings vs. Full Roof Replacement
10–20 Year
Warranty on Restored Roof Systems
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Restoring Roofs Instead of Replacing Them
The Denver Zoo faced a growing challenge common to large institutions: multiple aging commercial roofs requiring attention, paired with a limited annual maintenance budget. Full roof replacements across several buildings would have consumed significant capital and reduced funding available for other critical needs.
Integrity Pro Roofing proposed a high-performance commercial roof coating solution using Gaco 542, allowing the zoo to restore existing roof systems instead of replacing them. The result was immediate leak mitigation, extended roof lifespan, and 60–70% savings compared to replacement, all while supporting the zoo’s sustainability goals.
ABOUT THE CLIENT
Denver Zoo
The Denver Zoo is one of Colorado’s most well-known cultural and educational institutions, operating a large campus with diverse facilities that require ongoing infrastructure maintenance. With a strong focus on conservation, education, and responsible resource management, the zoo prioritizes solutions that balance performance, longevity, and environmental impact.
THE CHALLENGES
Aging Roofs, Limited Budget
As the zoo’s facilities aged, several commercial roofs began showing signs of wear, including surface deterioration and minor leaks. While the roofs were no longer performing optimally, they were not structurally failed.
The facilities team faced several challenges:
Multiple roofs needing attention at the same time A limited annual budget for capital improvements Full roof replacement costs that would strain resources A desire to avoid unnecessary waste and disruption The need for a long-term, reliable solutionThe zoo needed a roofing partner who could provide honest guidance and help determine whether replacement was truly necessary, or if a more cost-effective alternative existed.
The solution
Restoration Over Replacement
Integrity Pro Roofing began with a comprehensive roof inspection and evaluation, focusing on membrane condition, seam integrity, drainage performance, and overall structural soundness.
The assessment revealed that the existing roofs were strong candidates for restoration rather than replacement. Based on these findings, Integrity Pro Roofing recommended a commercial silicone roof coating system using Gaco 542.
Why This Solution Was Chosen
Seamless waterproofing to immediately stop leaks High resistance to UV exposure, snow, and standing water Flexibility to handle Colorado’s freeze-thaw cycles Minimal disruption during installation Significantly lower cost than full replacementThis approach allowed the zoo to address roof performance issues while preserving existing systems and staying within budget.
PROJECT EXECUTION
Careful Coordination, Minimal Disruption
Integrity Pro Roofing completed the project with careful coordination to minimize disruption to zoo operations. Surface preparation and coating application were performed methodically to ensure long-term performance.
Key elements of the project included:
Thorough cleaning and preparation of existing roof surfaces Professional application of Gaco 542 across multiple roof areas Reinforcement of seams, penetrations, and vulnerable areas Clear communication with facilities staff throughout the processThe finished roofing systems now feature a seamless, protective coating designed to perform reliably in Colorado’s extreme weather conditions.
Results
Measurable, Long-Lasting Outcomes
The roof coating solution delivered measurable and long-lasting results for the Denver Zoo:
60–70% savings compared to full roof replacement
Immediate sealing of active leaks
Extended roof lifespan without structural tear-off
10–20 year warranty depending on application thickness
Reduced long-term maintenance demands
Preserved budget flexibility for other operational priorities
By restoring instead of replacing, the zoo avoided unnecessary waste and gained predictable roof performance for years to come.
ADDITIONAL BENEFITS
SUSTAINABILITY & LONG-TERM VALUE
Beyond cost savings, the project aligned with the Denver Zoo’s commitment to environmental responsibility. Restoring existing roofs reduced landfill waste, minimized material consumption, and lowered the overall environmental impact of the project.
The coating system also supports long-term planning by providing warranty-backed protection and reducing the likelihood of emergency repairs.
HOW INTEGRITY PRO ROOFING DELIVERED
An Evaluation-First Approach
This project demonstrates how a strategic, solution-focused roofing approach can deliver superior results without defaulting to costly replacements. Integrity Pro Roofing’s evaluation-first mindset allowed the Denver Zoo to make an informed decision that balanced performance, cost, and sustainability.
For large commercial properties, institutions, and facilities facing similar challenges, roof restoration and coating systems can offer substantial value when implemented by an experienced contractor.
Facing Similar Roofing Challenges?
Whether you manage one building or an entire campus, our evaluation-first approach helps you understand whether restoration or replacement makes the most sense — before you spend a dollar.