Both residential and commercial roofs have the same purpose. They are designed to help keep outdoor elements, such as debris, rain and air, out of your dwelling or building. They also help to keep indoor air in, allowing you to control the temperature in your home or business. However, while they are designed to serve the same purpose, they are actually very different. Here are a few of the key differences between residential and commercial roofing.
The Materials Used to Construct the Roof
One of the major differences between commercial roofs and residential roofs is the type of roofing materials that are used on the roofs. Residential roofs are commonly made from asphalt shingles, clay tiles or wood shakes. Commercial roofs are often covered using materials such as EPDM or TPO coatings or modified bitumen or built-up roofing. Metal sheets are also commonly used on commercial roofs.
The Design of the Roof
One of the reasons why different roofing materials are used on residential versus commercial roofs is because of the design or shape of the roof. Most commercial roofs are flat or low-slope roofs, while most residential roofs are sloped roofs. Different materials need to be used for sloped or flat roofs to help keep water out.
The Obstacles on the Roof
Roofs do not simply consist of a roof. They often have items protruding from the roof or placed on the roof. Residential roofs commonly have chimneys and vents, while commercial roofs have smokestacks and heavy rooftop equipment. The obstacles on the roof can affect the roof itself and the roofing materials that need to be used on or around these obstacles.
The Size of the Roof
The size of the roof is another difference between commercial and residential roofs. Most commercial roofs are much larger than residential roofs. This affects not only the lifespan of the roof, but the materials that are used on the roof. Materials used on commercial roofs tend to be cheaper and faster to install, to help compensate for the large overall size of the roof.
The Maintenance the Roof
Needs The final difference between commercial and residential roofs is the type of maintenance that the roof needs. Commercial roofs should be inspected two times per year, while residential roofs only need to be inspected once a year. Commercial roofs also tend to need more maintenance and repairs than residential roofs, due to the type of materials that are used on the roof and their overall size.
Commercial and residential roofs may be very different, but they both need to be properly maintained and repaired as needed. Here at Rosie’s Roofing & Restoration, a professional roofing company in Atlanta can help you with the installation, inspection, maintenance and repair needs of both your residential and commercial roofs. Reach out to us today to learn more about how we can help you.
