While roofs may all look alike to the untrained eye, there are quite a lot of differences from one to another. This is especially true for residential and commercial roofs. Residential roofs are your standard home, while commercial refers to businesses or buildings designed for purposes other than living in. Residential roofs are much smaller than commercial roofs, and require different methods of roofing in Dearborn Michigan. We’ll take a look at these roofing types below and give you tips on how to best maintain your roofing for years of use.
Differences Between Commercial and Residential Roofing in Dearborn Michigan
For most homeowners in Dearborn Michigan the thought of getting a new roof installed can be a bit overwhelming. However, for most homes the project of getting a new roof installed only lasts a few days. For commercial roofing however the time frame needed for the project can be much longer depending on the size of the building and the materials that are being installed on the roof. In any case, getting a roof inspection before the roof is installed can give you a much better idea of the cost and time frame needed to replace the roof. Here are some of the key differences in residential and commercial roofing in Dearborn Michigan.
Time Frame of the Roofing Project
Because commercial roofs are typically much larger than residential roofs, they will take more time to complete. On average, residential roofs can be repaired or completely replaced in as little as a day. But commercial roofs can take as much as a month to fully complete.
Overall Design of the Roof
If you have looked at a commercial building, you have probably noticed that there are really only to options. You can opt for a flat roof, or one with a very slight slope. The options are very limited because of the need for easy access for maintenance and the greater size of the roof. Flat roofs are easier to work on and provides for extra storage space for things like water tanks, solar panels, or HVAC systems.
Residential roofs, because they are smaller and need less storage space, can be much more customizable. Flat, sloped, pyramid and everything in between will work for residential roofs and can work for your home.
Roofing Material Options and Availability
Once again, commercial roofs have much less options than the residential roof. Residential roofs can be shingled, have metal sheeting and tiles can all be used. These options also have more choices because you can choose from a wide range of colors and materials to make up the roof coverings.
Commercial roofs are much more restricted as far as what you can and can’t use because of the flat design. You will typically see asphalt or metal on these roofs to help prevent moisture damage. Buildings that work with chemicals will also need to consider how that will impact your roof. Certain chemicals can impact the covering of your roof and can make it difficult for the materials to stick and do their job.
In either case however there are roofing materials that may require special ordering or wait times. Attempting to match an already installed roof may also take time to acquire the materials that will be installed on the roof.
Maintenance and Repairs
Commercial roofs are much easier to work on because of the flat or slightly sloped design. This makes them easy to walk on and maneuver around as you work, compared to navigating a roof with a greater incline. However, because of the flat roof design, it is easier for snow, moisture and debris to stay on it. That can cause damage to your roof unless you regularly clean it off and remove anything sitting on it.
Residential roofs should be checked after storms and have at least one professional inspection a year. This will allow you to look for any signs of issues and prevent unnecessary damage. Trees should be trimmed away, snow should be removed, and gutters should be checked and regularly cleared to prevent obstructions. You should also check for any issues in your shingles if that is what you want for your home.
Be sure to call the experts at Roofing Dearborn if you need roofing service on your home or commercial business. They are fully licensed and provide free quotes on roofing projects. Call today at 313-209-6350
