When you think of roofing in Ypsilanti Michigan, you may think that it is all the same. But residential roofing and commercial roofing are very different and require a different way of approaching things. This is important to remember because hiring someone for your home’s roof may not be able to adequately handle a commercial roof, or have little to no experience in the area. To better understand why there is such a difference, you need to understand commercial roofing.

What You Should Know About Your Commercial Roofing in Ypsilanti Michigan

Commercial roofing is usually much larger than a residential dwelling. This added roof space presents several challenges that may not be present on a residential home. Since the roof is much larger it likely won’t be able to have a pitched roof like a home would have. That means that the materials used are likely different. Having a roofing contractor that can service many different types of materials used on the roof is always better.

So what should you do if you suspect your roofing may have problems? It’s always best to call a qualified roofing contractor such as Ypsilanti Roofing Company when you think there may be a problem on your roof. We can inspect the roof and determine if it needs repairs or even replacing. Here are some tips to help you better understand the differences in commercial and residential roofing in Ypsilanti Michigan.

What Is Commercial Roofing

Rather than the residential roofs of your home, commercial roofs handle your businesses. These roofs are typically designed to be larger than residential roofs, as well as having a much smaller slope. Most commercial roofs are flat, or nearly flat, and often incorporate HVAC systems, parking, walkways, or further ways of utilizing the space.

Commercial roofs are seen as much easier to install and repair, but because of their lack of slope, can be prone to more problems than the residential roof. On average, you can expect your commercial roof to last between 20 and 45 years, depending on your climate, regular maintenance, and what type of materials you go with.

Commercial Roof Parts

There are some key parts to a commercial roof.

Reinforcement

Much like the covering of a residential roof, the reinforcement layer is the material that prevents punctures and provides greater strength to the overall roof. Unlike residential coverings, this is not the top layer, but instead the layer that provides dimensional stability to the membrane.

Weatherproofing Layer

The membrane of your commercial roof acts to weatherproof the area, preventing moisture from getting in.

Surfacing

Coatings are the very top layer, going over the reinforcement and the weatherproofing, to protect them both from damage. The surfacing coating prevents damaging UV rays, heat and the elements, as well as increase the security of your roof for fire resistance, solar reflectivity to lower your energy bills, and improve your ability to use the roof for travel

Gutters

Gutters are a valuable part of any roof, no matter what the slope. Gutters not only aid to remove water from your roof, but keep it away from your foundation, making it important to always have them installed properly and maintained to remain unobstructed.

Why You Can’t Use Residential Materials on A Commercial Roof

There are two main reasons why materials for one type of roofing cannot be used for the other. The first is the slope. Residential roofs are designed to have a slope that is 15 degrees or higher in incline. While a commercial roof has a slope of 14 degrees or lower until flat. That means that the materials made for one of these roof types cannot fit with the other. The other reason they cannot be used interchangeably is the composition and design. Commercial roofs must be able to better withstand moisture as it is more difficult for the water to flow off. That means the materials used need to be better suited for water resting on your roof, including incorporating waterproof membranes.

Talk with a Professional About Your Roof

If you have concerns about your roofing it’s best to call a roofing contractor to do an inspection. At Ypsilanti Roofing Company we offer roofing inspections on commercial and residential buildings. Call us today to schedule your appointment and get a free quote on any repairs or replacement that may be needed.