Everything You Need To Know About Commercial Roofing

Commercial roofing and residential roofing are very different industries

The roofing systems available to commercial building owners are much different than residential systems, and as such are installed using different applications. As a result of these different applications and systems, commercial building owners often have to deal with different problems than the average homeowner when it comes to roofing. Although there are distinct differences in commercial and residential roofing systems, many people are not aware of the differences. It is important to understand the differences between the two and how to handle problems when they arise.

Residential Roofing vs. Commercial Roofing

The biggest difference between residential roofing and commercial roofing is usually the roofing systems that are available. When it comes to residential roofs, homeowners often choose asphalt shingle or concrete tile systems. Asphalt is definitely the most popular though.

However, when it comes to commercial roofing options, there are many more options to choose from—sprayed polyurethane foam, TPO, PVC, EPDM, concrete, tar & gravel systems, and many more. Since there are so many options when it comes to commercial roofing systems, business owners must do thorough research to ensure they make the best decisions regarding roof installations and repairs.

Installing a Commercial Roof

Installing a commercial roofing system is very different than a residential roofing installation. Most notably is the amount of time it takes to install the roof. Most residential roofing jobs can be completed in a day or two, while it can take a month or more to install a commercial roof. Since commercial buildings are usually larger than homes, this sheer size of the roof plays into this additional installation time. Not only that, but commercial roofing systems are often more difficult to install because they involve complex installation procedures. A lot of this time is spent waiting for the materials to cure, settled, dry, etc.

Repair and Maintenance of Commercial Roofing Systems

When it comes to fixing common roofing problems, commercial repairs are much different than residential repairs. Typically, all it takes is a patch to repair a residential roof leak. But with a commercial roof, a leak could mean the entire roof needs to be repaired, such as adding a coating. Sometimes, a patch or new flashings will fix the problem, but there are often times the leak indicates a bigger problem that may require the roof to be replaced.

Always keep in mind that commercial roofing repairs are different than residential roofing repairs. With a commercial roof, you will typically have different problems than you would with a residential roof. And when you do have similar problems, the repair is often much different.

Bottom line: throw away all you have learned about residential roofing systems when you are researching commercial roofing systems and solutions. Most of the things you have learned about residential roofing are different than commercial roofing. The maintenance, service, and repairs of commercial roofs are different than residential roofs. The available systems and installation process is much different in commercial roofs.

Let us know if you have any questions about your commercial roof.