The Difference Between Commercial and Residential Roofer?

A roofer is a professional who installs and repairs roofs.A Commercial Roofer is different from residential ones in the type of work they do, but both specialize in providing durable, long-lasting roofs that will stand up to inclement weather for years or decades at a time. In this blog post, we’ll explore the difference between commercial versus residential roofing, so you know what’s best for your home.

Commercial roofers are usually hired for large-scale projects. They have a larger and heavier inventory of material and tools and often use cranes to access the peak of the building. On the other hand, residential roofers typically serve residential clients with smaller jobs such as fixing or replacing shingles or flashing around chimneys. 

Commercial Roofing: Commercial Roofing Inspection requires special considerations like wind resistance and ice loads, so they’re best left to commercial professionals. 

Types of commercial roofing materials:

  • Asphalt Shingles: These are the most popular commercial roofing material because they are inexpensive and easy to install
  • Metal Roofs: It offers a sleek, modern look that is perfect for high-end buildings
  • Copper Roofs: They have an attractive green patina that makes them great for historic homes.
  • Slate Roofs: It requires regular maintenance but will last longer than other materials 
  • Wood Shake or Wood Shingle Roofs: It can be found in many rural areas of the United States

There are also metal vent covers, chimneys, gutters, downspouts, and flashing to consider when installing a new roof on your building!

Commercial roofers should always research before deciding which type of roofing material would work best for their project! 

Residential Roofing: Residential roofing is a safer bet for the average homeowner because they don’t have to worry about increased weight from snowfall or ice dams.

The most common type of residential roofing materials:

  • Wood Shakes- These are also a popular choice for roofs, but they require more upkeep and maintenance than asphalt shingles
  • Tile- Another option that homeowners may want to consider because it’s durable and can last up to 50 years with proper installation
  • Slate- It is typically used in areas where there is heavy snowfall during the winter because it has excellent insulation properties
  • Metal Roofs- These are made from aluminum or steel, which makes them very durable and low-maintenance

Commercial and residential roofs are both significant for protecting your home. Essentially, residential roofing has fewer restrictions than commercial roofing regarding materials that can be used. Residential roofs are not subject to building code regulations since each property owner selects the type of material that meets their needs best.

On the other hand, building codes require commercial roofs to use only materials approved by a previous authority on roofing projects to meet safety standards. For instance, many localities require smoke detectors on metal roofs because they started fires before.

There is a big difference between commercial and residential projects when it comes to roofing, and commercial roofers have to follow regulations for the type of materials used. In contrast, residential roofers can choose from a variety of materials. 

Additionally, commercial roofs are often required to include features not necessary on residential roofs, such as rain gutters and downspouts. These features help divert water runoff away from the building and protect the investment in the property.

So, when choosing between a commercial or residential roofer, be sure to consider the different factors that come into play with each type of project. A qualified and experienced roofer will be able to help you make the best decision for your needs.