What Elements Make Commercial Roofing Unique?

Whether we’re at home, at our workplace or just out and about, we don’t usually think too much about the roof over our heads. That is, of course, until we need to get roofing work done. That’s when it becomes apparent that there is a difference between commercial and residential roofing.

While both commercial roofing systems and residential roofs do the same thing (protect us from the elements), they have different requirements and standards.

Here is some more information about the differences between commercial and residential roofing.

Design

The largest difference in commercial vs residential roofing starts with design. Before even one beam, tile or shingle is laid, the design of a roof must be right for the function of the building.

For example, commercial roofs tend to be flat and very low. This is evident when you look at restaurants, warehouses, retail shops and even industrial buildings like factories. These roofs are often large and can play host to large machines like HVAC systems. They may also have spaces for exhaust or ventilation pipes.

On the contrary, residential roofs are usually pitched and smaller than commercial roofs. The only thing you will likely see on a residential roof is solar panels, skylights or maybe a chimney or vent stack.

Materials

Another major difference between commercial and residential roofing is the type and quantity of material that each uses.

Shingles made of asphalt are the most common topper for residential roofs, due in part to their cost-effective design and installation. There are other options as well, including ceramic, tile, slate, metal panels and wood shakes. The construction of residential roofs involves nailing plywood to wooden rafters to create a deck and then installing an underlayer before topping it with shingles or another type of roofing material.

Commercial roofing systems are quite different, however. They usually have multiple layers, and there are many more options for commercial roofing to consider. Top layer options can include tar, gravel, sprayed polyurethane foam and more. This type of work is more specialized than residential roofing, and it’s important to choose a roofing contractor with experience in commercial roofing for this type of work.

Installation and repair

Finally, the installation and repair of commercial roofing systems is quite different than that of residential roofs. Take timing, for example. A residential roof may be installed in just a matter of days, while a commercial roofing system, depending on its size, may take upwards of a month to install.

Repairs on commercial roofs are also generally more involved than those of a residential roof. Because there is more to consider with the multiple layers and roofing options, it’s important to hire a roofing contractor with experience in commercial roofing to handle this type of work.

Roofing work is best done by a professional contractor with the right experience for the job. Whether you need commercial, industrial or residential roofing services, contact the professional team at R & H Roofing, LLP today. We have the right experience and certifications to handle any job, big or small.

Categorised in: Commercial Roofing

This post was written by Writer