While a typical residential roof is typically made from asphalt shingles or concrete tiles, a commercial roof is a completely different beast. Oftentimes, it’s covered with modified bitumen, single-ply tar, or tar and gravel. Unlike a residential roof, a commercial roof is built up of multiple layers of roofing material, including insulation, decking, protective coating, and reflective coating. Here are some of the key differences between residential and commercial roofing.

In general, a commercial roof needs replacement every 15 to 50 years. It also needs to be repaired and replaced when a storm damages it. Additionally, it should be replaced if a leak occurs and compromises the underlying structure of the building. Whether you need a new roof for a small building or a large property, Roofing will assist you throughout the entire process. This is especially beneficial for commercial buildings that experience a lot of foot traffic.
Depending on the needs of your building, commercial roofing can include virtually any type of material. The best choice for your roof will depend on the slope and design of the building. For example, flat roofs cannot use shingles or other types of material. These types of roofs require specialized flat roofing materials. Fortunately, many commercial roofing companies offer warranties and other benefits. In addition to the fact that commercial roofing is generally a better investment than residential roofing, it’s more cost-effective to hire a professional than to repair or replace an entire roof.
Residential roofs are steeper than those on commercial buildings. Commercial roofs are flat or sloping. A flat roof requires more maintenance and repair work because of its larger area. Unlike residential homes, commercial roofs are more difficult to maintain and repair. Luckily, there are several options available to homeowners to protect their investments. They can also have a flat roof, and the latter is usually the most cost-effective option for a commercial building.
Among the most popular options for commercial roofing are single-ply membranes. These involve a single layer of rubber or synthetic material that is ballasted to the roof. The ballasting process connects the membrane to the insulation underneath. Several materials are thermoplastics and thermosets. These include Ethylene Diene Monomer. These roofing materials are resistant to both heat and cold. This is a great option for industrial properties with large ventilation systems and a high number of fans.
Unlike residential roofing, commercial roofing projects require more extensive materials and labor than residential roofs. Commercial roofing projects can take several days to weeks to complete. Also, commercial roofs require more manpower and require more complex installation methods than residential roofs. These commercial roofs are more complicated than their residential counterparts and are often much larger. Therefore, they require the expertise of a commercial roof installation company. However, this doesn’t mean that the quality of commercial roofing is compromised.
Another option for commercial roofing is metal. Metal is durable and more environmentally friendly than many other commercial roofing materials. It’s also attractive, especially on sloped roofs. A professionally installed metal roof is a striking alternative to thermoplastics. It requires a skilled contractor and can last up to 50 years. Metal roofing is also lightweight and easy to install. A metal roof is also durable and easy to maintain and is an excellent choice for commercial roofing.
EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) is a petroleum product. Its special properties are designed to resist UV rays, making it an ideal choice for commercial roofs in hot climates. Additionally, it can be applied with a reflective material to keep the building cool. EPDM is more expensive than modified bitumen, and it doesn’t hold up to high-traffic conditions. If you’re looking for a more durable material, consider thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO).
EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) roofing is made of synthetic rubber. Thermoplastic membranes can resist ultraviolet light and are durable. EPDM roofing is a popular choice for low-slope commercial buildings and can be very flexible. It’s also relatively affordable and hassle-free. You’ll have a roof that is both stylish and energy-efficient. You can even install EPDM if your roof is flat!