Is There a Difference between Residential and Commercial Roofing?
A roof is a roof, right? As it turns out, that’s not necessarily the case. Specifically, several differences exist between residential and commercial roofing. In this post, Di Pasqua Construction Inc. describes the differences. Keep reading to learn more, and use the information to hire the right roofing contractor.
Roof Slope and Design
The most apparent difference between residential and commercial roofing is the slope and design. Residential properties contain a variety of elevations that include different roof slopes, pitches, and designs. Additionally, residential roofs take up less space. Finally, residential roofs may contain chimneys, skylights, solar panels, or vent stacks, but they’re far less cluttered than commercial roofs.
Consider the commercial properties you pass daily, including warehouses, skyscrapers, and retail stores. Commercial roofs are often flat or include a low slope. Some commercial properties have sloped roofs, but they are the exception and not the rule. Further, commercial roofs often contain additional elements, such as HVAC blowers or industrial materials.
Roofing Materials
Residential property owners who newly construct or re-roof the homes make choices based on design, cost, and practical needs. Similarly, commercial property owners experience the same decision-making process. However, commercial properties involve more extensive considerations. Therefore, it’s essential to work with the right contractor experienced in commercial roof construction and re-roofing.
Residential roofs often use asphalt shingles, tile, metal, slate, and wood shake. Roofers attach the materials to a protective sheet attached to the underlying plywood attached to the rafters. While the process must be done skillfully by professionals, it is more straightforward than commercial roofing.
Commercial roofs require different materials due to their slope, structure, and function. For instance, installers generally cover them with commercial systems, such as sprayed polyurethane foam or tar. Additionally, they often include multiple layers, such as insulation, decking, and other coatings. The types and number of layers depend on the building. As you can see, commercial roofing requires more materials and expertise, which is why it’s important to use a qualified company, such as Di Pasqua.
Roof Installation
The difference between residential and commercial roof installation is the time it takes to install. We just covered how commercial roofs use different materials and require multiple layers. In addition to these factors, they’re also often quite expansive. Thus, the sheer size, along with the number of materials and coatings, means that installation takes much longer. In other words, installers often complete residential roofs in a day or two, whereas commercial roofs can take weeks.
Roofing Repairs and Maintenance
Both residential and commercial roof repairs can be extensive. However, commercial roof repairs often require more time, skilled labor, and cost for the same reasons just reviewed. Residential roof repairs can be quick if limited to isolated spots. Commercial properties, however, often require more effort.
Di Pasqua Knows Roofs
Whether you need a new roof installation, re-roofing, repairs, or maintenance in West Palm Beach, Di Pasqua can help. We perform all these services and more for residential and commercial customers. Call (561) 275-2406 to schedule or request a free quote online.
