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Are you wondering what the difference is between commercial roofing and residential roofing? Not sure what you should consider when getting a roof installation or repair?
If you need to get a roof installation, it’s important to know the differences between commercial and residential roofs. There are some key distinctions to keep in mind if you want to make finding contractors and getting a roof installation easier.
Here are the big differences between residential and commercial roofing that you need to know about.
Roof Design
One of the most significant differences between residential and commercial roofs is the design itself. Commercial roofs and residential roofs tend to vary quite a bit in how they’re built and what specific design they have.
It’s important to note that commercial roofs are generally much larger than residential roofs are. A commercial roof needs to be built with strength and durability in mind and should be appropriate for the building that it will be for. Commercial building roofs are often flat, or if there is a slope, it will be low. On the surface of a commercial roof, there will often be important features such as large HVAC units and industrial pipes. There may also be skylights, smokestacks, and other items that serve various functions.
A residential roof will typically be pitched and will have a much higher slope. There usually won’t be as many features and equipment on top of it like with a commercial roof. However, there may sometimes be chimneys, skylights, or solar panels.
The design of a roof will be different for commercial and residential needs. There will be many other differences to consider as well.
Materials Used
Another difference between commercial and residential roofs is the materials that will be used. There are many material options to choose from for both residential and commercial roof installations. Many factors will help determine which will be used.
For residential roofs, asphalt shingles are very common. Asphalt shingles are very cost-effective and easy to install, making them a good choice for residential purposes. Other roofing materials such as slate, tile, metal panels, and ceramic are also commonly used as well. Residential roofs will typically have plywood that has been nailed to wooden rafters. This will be underneath the shingles or another top layer.
Commercial roofs don’t typically use the above residential materials. They’re often covered with other types of materials such as tar, gravel, sprayed polyurethane foam, or modified bitumen. There will be many layers on a commercial roof including insulation and decking. There will also be protective and reflective coatings. Great commercial roofing contractors can help you decide on which roofing materials to use for your commercial roof.
For both roofing options, it will be essential to use durable materials that will stand the test of time and will have great longevity. It’s also essential for owners to ensure that the roof installation company offers a great warranty for the roof.
Maintenance and Care
One of the biggest differences between commercial and residential roof installations is the amount of maintenance that will be needed. Different levels of care will be needed to keep a roof in great shape.
Commercial roofs will require much more maintenance. This is because commercial roofs are much larger than residential roofs are. This means that they’ll need much more care and attention to keep in great shape. If there is water leakage in a commercial roof, it will be important to check the entire roof and it may need some major repairs.
Residential roofs are much simpler and they’re much smaller, making them easier to maintain. They’re also much easier to check for damage and if there are any problems, they’ll usually be much easier to repair. If there are any leaks in a residential roof, it will often only require a small fix. The problem could be due to some loose shingles or flashing and could be a small problem instead of a larger issue.
Installation Challenges and Costs
Installation costs and work time for commercial roofs will often be higher than with residential roofs. You’ll want to keep these costs and challenges in mind when planning your roof installation or repair.
Commercial roofs are large and often have more layers and more intricate details that need to be worked out. An installation by a commercial roofing company may take a month or more. This is because the roof will be so large.
A residential roof installation is a much simpler project. Fewer materials and less labor will be needed with the installation of a residential roof, so the price will be lower as well.
When checking the price for either type of roof, you’ll want to make sure that you get quotes from different roofing companies. Check your options carefully to ensure that you’re spending the right amount. Be sure to look for a good combination of price and quality when looking for a professional commercial roofing company or a residential roofing company.
Understanding the Big Differences Between Commercial Roofing and Residential Roofing
If you want to get a residential or commercial roofing installation, make sure that you know what some of the key differences between these types of roofs are. Knowing the basics will help you have a better time when speaking with contractors and getting an installation or repair.
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