Commercial Roofing vs. Residential Roofing

May 5, 2018

One of the useful things a property owner must know in order to keep track of the budgeting requirements for the maintenance and repair of his property is to identify the difference between commercial and residential roofs. Although both types of roofing basically serve the same purpose which is to provide shelter to the building, there are key differences to note.

Materials

The type of materials used for commercial and residential roofing can be varied. This is mainly because of the difference in the structure between the two. Commercial buildings are usually taller than residential buildings.  Due to this, commercial buildings require more protection against weather thus, tougher types of materials.

Some of the commonly used materials on commercial roofs are tile roofing, metal roofing and ethylene propylene diene monomer roofing. On the other hand, residential roofs have a wider range of selection of materials like asphalt shingles, wood shingles, metal roofing and roof tiles. Most modern homes have flat roof features that use materials similar to commercial roofing.

Design

Residential roofs are more visible than commercial roofs thus, the style and design of residential buildings are highly important. Commercial roofs are usually flat, low-sloped, and larger compared to residential roofs.

Cost

In general, it is more expensive to roof a commercial building than a residential building. One factor is that the commercial roofs are larger than residential roofs. Also, the tools and materials used in roofing a commercial building can be costly.

Installation

Residential roofing is easier to install. Unlike residential roofing, commercial roofs require skilled roofing services because commercial buildings have smokestacks, ventilation systems and pipes making them complicated to install.

Maintenance Requirements

Most commercial roofs are flat which makes them easier to inspect and maintain. Residential roofs, on the other hand, usually are highly sloped making it dangerous for roofers to inspect, repair and maintain these roofs.