Whether you’re a homeowner or an entrepreneur, your roof is arguably the most important part of your building’s structure, keeping your loved ones and investment safe from the whims of nature and the passage of time. Though primarily offering the same functions, commercial and residential roofing services do differ. From material selection to installation, skill requirements to price tags and more, this blog explores each aspect that sets commercial roofing apart from residential one.
Commercial Roofing Vs Residential Roofing: Contrasts & Comparisons
Northwestern Exteriors Inc. has worked on countless roofing projects over the years, making us experts in the matter. This is why we have compiled a comprehensive list of key differences that distinguish residential roofing from commercial roofing.
Sit back, relax, and read along as we help you gain a better understanding of the two.
The Size
One of the most obvious differences between the two types of roofs is their size. Residential roofs are smaller, with a cautious estimate putting the average roof around 26square feet.
On the other hand, commercial roofs are much larger, often spanning multiple stories. Their size depends on the kind of structure it is and its purpose.
The Roofing Material
Up next, residential roofs use a variety of materials that complement the structure’s aesthetics as well as the local weather conditions. Some common examples include asphalt shingles, slate, metal, wood shakes, or even tiles.
On the other hand, commercial roofing utilizes an entirely different set of materials that focus more on durability and strength. The most common types of commercial roofing materials include TPO, EPDM, BUR, metal, and even spray foam. According to some experts, commercial roofing material has more variety than residential roofing and often integrates with Gutter Services for effective water drainage and protection.
The Design
Residential roofing is usually pitched with the occasional flat roof. Even then, the pitch is higher than a commercial roof for easier drainage.
Conversely, commercial roofs are almost always flat, with a much lower pitch. This may be because commercial roofs are used to house heavy-duty equipment and accessories.
Roofing Accessories
Speaking of accessories. Residential roofs usually don’t have anything on top, save for the occasional solar panel that produces energy.
But commercial roofs are different. They support large HVAC units, solar systems, and even walkways for customers and maintenance. This means that the material and pitch have to be completely different.
Skills Needed
While both types of roofers start by attaining the same skills and knowledge, residential roofers reside on the lower end of the spectrum. This is because residential roofs are simpler and easier to install.
On the other hand, commercial roofers undergo rigorous training, honing their skills till they can handle large-scale roofing projects with unconventional shapes and features.
Installation Cost
The price tag for a residential roof is much smaller than a commercial roof. According to an estimate, the average cost of roof installation is about $7000-$14000 for a residential roof, depending on its design and roofing material.
However, a commercial roof can cost you anywhere from $20,000 to $1,00,000. The additional cost is due to its size, height, installation complexity, and the material used.
The Timeline
Due to the smaller size and ease of installation, most homes can have a new roof set up within a week or so, making residential roofing a quick and rewarding process.
On the opposite side of the spectrum, commercial roofing is much more complex. Roofing projects can often span over several weeks or even months due to the sheer size and complexity of the project.
Repairs & Maintenance
Whenever there’s a leak or crack, a roofer can easily fix it within a few hours for a residential roof. Homeowners may even patch up small leaks on their own till the experts arrive. This makes residential roof repairs fast, easy, and cost-effective.
But if it’s an office or restaurant roof that’s received damage, roofers may have to assess a larger portion of the roof to find the issue. This can take a few days and cost owners hundreds of dollars more in repair costs.
Conclusion
To conclude, while you may not consciously think about it, a commercial roof is vastly different from a residential one. It takes more time and money to build, uses a different set of materials, and requires labor that is more skilled. On the other hand, a residential roof is a quick project that usually complements the building’s aesthetics and doesn’t take too long to repair. We hope this blog helped you gain a clearer understanding of the two types of roofing systems. For more information, feel free to ask!
FAQs
1. How often should both roofs be inspected?
While commercial roofs should be inspected twice a year, you can get away with inspecting a residential roof once each year.
2. What is the most common commercial roofing material?
BUR is the most common due to its durability and weather-resistant features, with TPO following close behind.
3. What is the best roofing material to resist wind storms?
Metal roofing is the best roofing material against severe storms.
4. How long do commercial and residential roofs typically last?
A commercial roof can last between 20–40 years, depending on materials, while a residential roof generally lasts 15–30 years with proper maintenance.
5. What factors should I consider before choosing between commercial and residential roofing?
Consider your building structure, roof slope, energy efficiency goals, and maintenance needs. Consulting a professional roofer like Northwestern Exteriors Inc ensures you choose the best roofing type for long-term performance.