Whether commercial or residential, the main purpose of a roof is the same – it keeps everyone inside safe and dry!
However, there are some notable differences between commercial and residential roofing styles. A commercial property has different needs than a home designed for everyday living and neighborhood appeal.
Learn about how appearance, functionality, and construction affect the choice of materials and processes for roofers in Indianapolis with our guide!
Differences in Appearance
First, let’s cover the differences in appearance between a residential building and a commercial building. Residences tend to have more sloped, colorful roofs. The roof is made from materials such as tile, shingles, or standing seam metal roofing.
Commercial properties, however, are made with a much more functional intention in mind. They are flatter and made in the industrial style. Commercial roofing in Indianapolis typically requires cheaper materials that are quicker to install and repair than residential materials.
Roof Construction Differences
The flat build of commercial roofs allows companies to easily apply solar panels and generate more eco-friendly solar panels. The flat design of solar panels is also more effective than tilted solar panels, as they can absorb energy all day, rather than only part of the day.
Commercial roofing in Indianapolis is usually built to have a larger surface area and hold more weight than residential structures, as homes will usually not need to have much (or any) heavy machinery on top of it in the way that a business might.
Residential and commercial roofs do share many structural and functional similarities that allow them to achieve the main goal of keeping the inhabitants safe from harm. These include gutters, downspouts, and reliable supports to keep the roof intact and standing.
Maintenance of Commercial Roofs vs Residential Roofs
Taking care of a roof takes a lot of time and investment, regardless of the type and location. Good maintenance practices include regular checks and inspections by professionals to catch any issues before they become more serious.
These inspections are especially important for both businesses and homes in areas where there are large trees and regular strong winds.
Both residential and commercial roofing in Indianapolis should be subject to extra attention during storm season. This helps keep gutters and downspouts clear of leaves, branches, and other debris that could cause damage.
Another maintenance difference between the two types of structures is the checks: residential roofs can be surveyed easily and regularly from the ground by a homeowner or resident.
By walking around the building, it is easy to see if there are damaged or missing shingles, if a gutter is leaking, or if there are large pieces of debris that need to be changed. Commercial roofing requires a hands-on inspection from a qualified professional.
Final Thoughts
Construction, design, and inspection requirements vary dramatically for residential and commercial properties. However, it’s in every property owner’s best interest to schedule regular inspections from a well-reviewed local roofer.
Has it been a while since your last inspection? Perhaps it’s time to contact reliable roofing companies in Indianapolis!