Commercial vs. Residential Roofs, Who Ya Gonna Call?
Not all roofing contractors do the same type of work. There are commercial roofing contractors and those that do residential roofing. Even with those two separate categories you’ll find specialists that focus on one specific type of material such as rolled roofing for flat roofs or metal roofing for sloped roofs.
So, who should you call?
How Residential and Commercial Roofing are Different
It really comes down to the type of material you want on your roof. There are overlaps. Asphalt shingles work just as well on the roof of the local bank as they do on your home. The same goes for metal roofs and clay roofs or concrete tiles.
The major difference comes when you’re talking about flat roofs versus sloped roofs. On the flat roofs atop the local strip mall or office building, special roofing materials and roofing systems have to be installed to deal with rainwater. To install those materials and systems requires training, skills and experience that are beyond the abilities of most residential roofers.
Roofing contractors that specialize in commercial roofing systems likewise don’t have the skills, tools or expertise to handle residential roofing. The roofing contractor and crew that you want handling your residential roof installation is one that does it every day, year in and year out. That’s how they gain the skills to do the best job possible.
Choosing a Roofing Contractor for your Job
The key is to find a roofing contractor that specializes in the type of roof you want installed. For residential roofs, the process of installing a metal roof is very different than installation of an asphalt shingle roof. The same is true for concrete, slate roofing, wood shingles or shakes, or steel shingles.
All professions have their specialties. In the course of a year, you might take your car to a body shop for dent repair and paint, a transmission shop to replace a clutch and a mechanic for a new starter.
Roofing contractors specialize in the same way. If you know what type of roof you want, then get a quote for roofing prices from several contractors that specialize in that type of roof.
If you’re undecided between two or more types of roofing material, then getting roofing price quotes from contractors specializing in each type you are considering. Ask questions about the durability of the roof and how much maintenance it will require. Ask about energy-efficiency and what warranties come with the roof.
When getting a roofing quote from any contractor, there are many questions you should ask before you sign a contract. Ask about the experience of the crew that will be installing the roof. If the owner has been in business for 30 years but the crew is inexperienced, you might not get the installation quality you desire.
Following these simple tips will help you find the right contractor for the job. The results will look great, and the roof will provide the long-term protection you want for your home or building.