Commercial Flat Roof vs. Residential Flat Roof: What’s the Difference?

Although flat roofs may look the same, no two are alike. In fact, not only is there a difference between flat roofing systems and materials, there’s also a difference between flat roofing types. For example, a residential flat roof and a commercial flat roof are different in many ways. And while both roofs require installation from experienced professionals, they have many differences.

Commercial Flat Roof & Residential Flat Roof: Differentiating the Two

If you own property, chances are you’ll require roof repair or replacement at some point. To understand your property’s needs and roofing requirements, you’ll have to identify what sets it apart from other buildings and structures. Understanding what roof your property needs is important, otherwise you might think that whatever works for one property will also work for your property (and vice versa).

If you own commercial property in Toronto, Ontario, for example, you’ll need to know the roofing requirements for your specific property, as they will differ from that of a residential property. The first step to take is by identifying the key differences of commercial flat roofs vs. residential flat roofs.

So, what’s the difference between a resident flat roof and a commercial flat roof? We’ve listed some below:

(1) Design. Commercial flat roofs are among the most straightforward when it comes to design. Commercial roofs are either entirely flat with rainwater roll-off systems, or have slight pitches for drainage. Flat roofs are practical for commercial buildings because the flat surface allows for easy routine inspections and seasonal maintenance.

Residential flat roofing, on the other hand, can have more complex designs, while still remaining flat. When it comes to the design of a residential flat roof, there are no rules, so as long as the house can carry its structural weight.

(2) Size. Commercial roofing is known to have a wider space than most residential properties. Flat roofing for commercial or industrial use in Toronto should be highly functional given the extra surface space there is. More convertible roof space can be a huge advantage for commercial property owners. For one, there’s more room for routine inspections and maintenance. And, more surface area allows for more energy efficient equipment (i.e. solar panels) to be installed onto the roof’s surface.

With residential roofing, the size of the roof is usually decided by the owner. A residential roof doesn’t house heavy equipment or require seasonal inspections, so the size should be based on the owner's preference, and proportional to the area of the house.

(3) Material. All flat roofs vary. This includes the materials that are used to install them. Flat roofing materials will be largely based on a few factors: (1) Preference. (2) Budget requirements. (3) Structural capabilities. (4) Climate.

The differences of commercial flat roofs and residential flat roofs can be largely identified through the materials used and the purpose it will serve.

Professional Flat Roofing Installation in Toronto

Above are just a few of the many differences between commercial flat roofs and residential flat roofs. The most important factor when installing your flat roof is to ensure that you’ve installed the proper roof for your property. Installing a roofing system incorrectly will result in premature damages and a shortened lifespan altogether.

If getting a flat roof installed on your commercial or industrial property in Toronto is your next priority, don’t hesitate to call the commercial roofing experts at Crown Industrial Roofing. We have over thirty years of experience in commercial roofing in the Greater Toronto Area, which make us among the most trusted commercial roofing contractors in Toronto, Ontario.

 Call us for more information, or to receive a free roofing inspection.