Commercial and residential roofing systems essentially serve the same function – protecting properties. However, residential, and commercial roofing systems have significant differences in some areas, particularly with the materials used to build and install them. This article will walk you through the differences between the two and why commercial roofs require more skilled installers and frequent check-ups than residential roofs.
The Importance of Commercial Roofing
Commercial roofing typically refers to roofs for business offices, warehouses, and other large operational buildings or structures. A commercial roof protects a building from natural elements like rain, hail, and melting snow and ensures its occupants are safely protected and can comfortably function to do their jobs while in the building. Since the most minor leaks can lead to costly repairs and disturbances to the day-to-day business operations, well-maintained commercial roofing systems are critical to a business function.
Commercial and Residential Roofing Differences
The most evident difference between commercial and residential roofing is the structure’s size and the roof’s area. A commercial roof will generally be much larger than a residential roof.
Regarding roofing installation requirements, the most favored materials for commercial roofing are singly-ply Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) or Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) ), modified bitumen, concrete, built-up roofing system (BUR), tar, gravel, and more. Some commercial buildings utilize wood decking, while others are durably constructed on sturdy sheet metal decking. On the other hand, residential roofs are commonly made of asphalt shingles, slate, clay tiles, concrete, or metal roofing materials.
Since the price, life expectancy, and application for roofing materials vary considerably for each roofing system, there is no one-size-fits-all solution regarding the most common materials used for commercial and residential roofing systems.
In terms of appearance, commercial roofing systems are generally flat or nearly flat metals or membrane structures. On the other hand, residential roofs are typically steeper and come in many aesthetic options.
Despite their flat appearance, commercial roofs also tend to have more complex slopes, curves, penetrations, and other obstacles making them more complicated to install and maintain. Additionally, they are often made from heavier and more resilient materials to withstand more wear and tear.
Commercial Roofers Vs. Residential Roofers Skills Set
Commercial and residential roofers may share similar basic carpentry or mechanical techniques. But generally, the installers may possess different skill sets.
Residential roofers are trained to re-roof homes quickly. A single crew can efficiently perform a tear-off procedure of the old roof and install a new roof on two houses in one day.
Commercial roof projects are more complex, and depending on the size and type of building and roofing material, the installation process can take days or weeks to complete. Commercial roof installers are more experienced in working with large-scale roofs, which are more complicated than residential ones. They also have more experience with unique roof shapes and materials, which can be important for businesses that want a specialized roof.
While most residential roofing is only done in the warmer months, commercial roofing work can happen any season or even during extreme weather conditions, such as in the middle of scorching summers or freezing winters. For this reason, commercial roofers are verified to be more resilient and service-ready at any time of the year. Commercial roofers also have more experience working with high-rise buildings, which require special equipment to heave materials and gear to the roof.
Work With Highly Skilled Commercial Roofers At DDP Roofing
Due to the more technical nature of commercial roofs and the complexity of the installation procedures, many businesses consult and work with commercial roofing companies with outstanding reputations that employ highly skilled installers like DDP Roofing Services Inc.
Our roofing experts here at DDP Roofing can offer the best advice on your commercial roofing system needs. Whether you’re considering a new roof for your commercial building, thinking of having a routine roof check-up, or just looking to learn more about professional commercial roofing services, DDP would be glad to help you!
Contact us today, and let us ensure your roof is in tip-top condition all year round!