We all know that the roof plays a crucial role in a building's construction. But it's not enough to just have any roof on top of your property. You also have to ensure you're choosing the right roofing system for your needs. That's why it's important to know the difference between commercial and residential flat roofs.
A commercial flat roof is a roof that covers a business, commercial, or multi-family building. Most commercial flat roofs are installed in regions where the weather is known to be severe or at an elevation exceeding 2,500 feet above sea level.
Commercial flat roof coatings are used in these areas because it's the most cost-effective option. In comparison to other roofing systems, a commercial flat roof is less expensive to install and maintain.
The main objective of a commercial flat roof is to protect the building and its contents. This is largely achieved through a high-quality roof coating that contains a high level of asphalt, which prevents water from penetrating the roof.
On the other hand, a residential flat roof is installed on a single-family home. Residential flat roofs are widely used throughout the U.S., as opposed to commercial flat roofs, which are mainly used in the northern areas.
Residential flat roofs are popular in states like Florida, for example, where the weather is generally warm and less severe. However, you may see residential flat roofs in other parts of the country as well.
A residential flat roof’s main objective is to protect the inhabitants, but it also provides an aesthetic value to the home. A residential flat roof’s lifespan depends on its quality and maintenance.
The answer to this question depends on where you live, the type of building you live in, and the amount of maintenance you’re willing to put into it.
For instance, if you live in a region where the weather is more severe, especially in the winter, commercial flat roofs are more practical. Residential flat roofs can still be installed in these areas, but they're more likely to experience problems with leaks.
Doing a commercial flat roof installation is also more practical for structures that are exposed to a high level of wind, especially for those built at an elevation exceeding 2,500 feet above sea level.
On the other hand, residential flat roofs provide an aesthetic value that isn’t always available in a commercial flat roof. Residential flat roofs also have a longer lifespan than commercial flat roofs. If you’re in an area with less severe weather and you’re willing to dedicate some time to maintaining the roof, a residential flat roof is a good choice.
To sum everything up, commercial flat roofs are typically made of asphalt-impregnated felt or synthetic materials. Residential flat roofs, on the other hand, are typically made of asphalt, with an additional protective layer of tar for aesthetic value. The main difference between the two is that commercial flat roofs are more durable and are more resistant to harsh weather conditions.
Install a flat roof for your property with the help of To Serve Contracting. We are Wilmington roofing contractors that serve locations throughout North Carolina, Minnesota, and California. Our success has allowed us to expand to the states we are currently certified in and will allow us to continue to expand even further in the future. Get in touch with us today!