What Are The Differences Between A Commercial And Residential Roof?

What Are The Differences Between A Commercial And Residential Roof?
What are the differences between commercial and residential roofing in the Georgetown, Texas area? From the ground, many roofs may look similar, and objectively, they serve the same purpose. However, several differences exist between commercial and residential roofs, including roofing material types, installation processes, and design.
This article compares commercial roofing vs. residential roofing differences and examines why professional installation is essential for both.
Residential roofing pertains to single-family homes, duplexes, or townhomes. Commercial roofs vary from multipurpose complexes to retail shopping centers, restaurants, and office buildings. Quality installation and long-term durability are necessary for all roofs. But the needs of commercial and residential buildings often vary.
Understanding these differences helps property owners determine the best roofing system for their projects.

How Do They Differ in Installation?

There are several commercial roofing vs. residential roofing differences, but perhaps the most prominent is the difficulty and cost of installation. Commercial roofing is more extensive and covers more square footage, requiring more labor and materials. Additionally, it requires different protective equipment and safety requirements, especially if the roof sits on top of a tall building.
In addition, roofers can often finish roofing most residential homes within a few hours to a couple of days. A typical commercial roof installation may take over a month to complete.
Several factors may extend the project timeline significantly, including the building size, roofing materials used, and building codes.

How Do They Differ in Materials?

Another significant difference between residential and commercial roofing is the materials used. The materials used to build roofs depend on the type of roofing, size, and weather patterns in the area. 
Texas Traditions Roofing works with different types of roofing materials as follows:

  • Commercial Roofing: We install, repair, and work with thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO), metal, architectural shingles, and metal copings and flashings. These commercial roofing products are available for installation:
    • GAF
    • Mule-Hide low slope materials
    • Asphalt and steep slope
    • Metal Roofing
  • Residential Roofing: We install asphalt shingles and find most homeowners prefer architectural shingle roofing for its distinctive look and advanced features, including resistance (algae, impact, and wind), class “A” fire rating, and cool roofing and color blending technology. Additionally, we install tile and metal roofing. We are certified by the top brands, including GAF, Owens Corning, CertainTeed, and DaVinci.

How Do They Differ in Maintenance?

The amount of maintenance required is another significant difference between these two roof types. Residential properties are smaller than commercial ones and are easier to maintain. Apart from quality installation, the age of residential roofing often determines its maintenance. Newly installed roofs require only an annual checkups, while roofs nearing their end of life may require more regular maintenance and repair.
On the other hand, commercial roofing requires more consistent maintenance since it covers a large area. For example, cleaning gutters is a simple DIY job in residential properties but takes more time and labor for commercial properties. Many commercial property owners opt to hire a roofing service to handle roof maintenance as a way to prevent costly and extensive repairs.
It is easier for residential homeowners to scan for roofing damages from the ground. It is best for commercial property owners to have their roofer be on the roof to assess it for damages.

How Do They Differ in Design?

Both commercial and residential roofs come in various styles and designs. Commercial roofs have a relatively flat roof with a slight slope to prevent water pooling, while most residential roofs have steeper slopes.
Because commercial properties are larger than residential properties, the roof must be structured differently to protect the interior of the building. Additionally, commercial roofs may accommodate recreational space, HVAC equipment, or even a rooftop restaurant.

Why Hire a Roofing Contractor?

Now you know the different aspects of commercial roofing vs. residential. It’s essential to add that both roofing systems require a professional roofing contractor to install and maintain.
Texas Traditions Roofing is a GAF MasterElite and Master Select roofer and has earned the President’s Award and Triple Excellence award by offering premier roofing services in Georgetown, Texas. We have experience installing and repairing all roof systems, including metal, asphalt shingles, single-ply and more. We are also licensed and fully insured, offer all manufacturer warranties, and hire highly trained technicians. Contact us today and get a free inspection and recommendation for your next project, be it a new roof installation, replacement, or repair and maintenance.