Commercial roofing and residential roofing have the same goal; protect the property. However, it is also like comparing apples and oranges. While commercial roof replacement and residential roof replacement are similar, it is not the same. Roof replacement makes up about 90% of the roofing industry's workload, according to Roofinginsights.com. Learn more about commercial roofing and why it is so different from residential roofing.

The Pitch (Slope)

Both commercial roofs and residential roofs have a pitch or slope. On residential roofs, the slope of the roof is much smaller. On commercial roofs, the slope is much higher, which means it requires a special skill set to manage. Navigation on a commercial roof for the roofer is a lot more challenging. It can be a much more dangerous endeavor to replace a commercial roof than a residential roof.

The Material Mass of the Roof

It takes a lot more material to manage a commercial roofing project. The sheer mass of the material can be tremendous. It requires a keen eye and strong engineering skills to plan for a commercial roof replacement. It takes years of skill development to manage this type of roofing job.

The materials are not the only difference either. Often, commercial roof projects require special permits that the commercial roof company can handle.

Flat Roofs, Coatings, and More

Most homes have pitched roofs and many commercial roofs have flat roofs. Flat roofs require a special kind of care to install, and they also need periodic coatings to help keep them in top condition. There are unique obstacles that a commercial roofer has to overcome to ensure a sturdy, safe, protective roof for the property.

In many cases, just working on the commercial roof is a challenge. There are typically other buildings nearby that need to be navigated, special safety precautions need to be taken, and other considerations need to be made. Commercial roofing is a different type of challenge than residential roofing is.

Commercial Roofers Are the Experts

Most commercial roofers can manage both residential roofing projects and commercial roofing projects because of their advanced skill set. However, most residential roofers cannot manage commercial roofs. They do not have the developed skill set or knowledge that is required. To work with qualified commercial roofers, reach out to Chicago Commercial Roofing.