Residential homes are often pitched and have shingles, while commercial roofs are more likely to be flat. Flat roofs usually do not use shingles. Instead, the roof has a slope and the water travels to the drain through the power of gravity. The roof is made out of a material that is meant to be resistant to moisture, such as bitumen. There are several reasons why shingles are uncommon.
Shingles Are Difficult to Install On Flat Roofs
It's more difficult to install shingles on a flat roof than to install shingles on a pitched roof. This is because you might be required by building codes to reconstruct your roof so that it has a greater pitch before you can add shingles. This should only be done by a commercial roofing contractor. The methods that contractors use to install shingles on roofs also tend to be more dangerous with a flat roof.
Water Might Become Trapped Under the Shingles
Shingles can actually protect your roof less effectively than a properly installed flat commercial roof because water can become trapped under the shingles and eventually cause holes to form in the roof. This can lead to problems with dripping water, and your roof and the rest of the building can become damaged by the water infiltration. Shingles only make sense on a pitched residential roof because the moisture will run off the roof.
However, every roof is different, and it might make sense to speak with your commercial roofing contractor about what type of roof makes the most sense for your commercial building. Hiring a commercial roofing contractor is important because they will be able to install your roof right the first time and your roof will last much longer before it needs repairs.
Always Consult with a Commercial Roofing Contractor
A commercial roofing contractor will also be able to help you construct a roof that follows building codes so that you will not be forced to make changes to your roof and will not be fined for failing to follow the building codes.
After your roof has been constructed, you will need to have the roof maintained on a regular basis so that your roof will not wear out. Then, when your roof has reached the end of its life, your commercial roofing contractor will replace it with a new one. Therefore, it's always a great idea to have a good relationship with a commercial roofing contractor.
Contact a commercial roofing contractor for more information.
