If you are looking for a roofing contractor in New Jersey, you may be wondering what the difference is between residential and commercial roofing contractors. While both types of roofing contractors can install, repair, and maintain roofs, there are some key differences that you should be aware of before hiring one for your project.
Key takeaways
- Residential and commercial roofing contractors are roofing professionals who specialize in installing, repairing, and maintaining roofs for different types of buildings.
- Residential roofing contractors typically work with steep-slope roofs and various roofing materials, such as asphalt, wood, metal, slate, tile, and rubber, for homes and other residential buildings.
- Commercial roofing contractors typically work with low-slope or flat roofs and various roofing materials, such as thermoplastic single-ply membranes, modified bitumen, built-up roofing, metal, and green roofs, for commercial and industrial buildings.
- The main differences between residential and commercial roofing contractors are the size and scope of the project, the skills and experience required, the equipment and tools used, the license and insurance required, and the warranty and guarantee offered.
- To choose the best roofing contractor for your project in New Jersey, you should consider the type and size of your roof, the quality and reputation of the roofing contractor, the cost and value of the roofing contractor, and the customer service and communication of the roofing contractor.
Comparison Table
Aspect | Residential Roofing Contractor | Commercial Roofing Contractor |
---|---|---|
Type of roof | Steep-slope | Low-slope or flat |
Roofing material | Asphalt, wood, metal, slate, tile, rubber | Thermoplastic single-ply membranes, modified bitumen, built-up roofing, metal, green roofs |
Project size and scope | Smaller and simpler | Larger and more complex |
Skills and experience | Working with steep-slope roofs and various roofing materials, matching the aesthetic and functional needs of the homeowners | Working with low-slope or flat roofs and various roofing materials, meeting the performance and durability requirements of the building owners and managers |
Equipment and tools | Basic equipment and tools, such as trucks, ladders, nail guns, compressors, and safety gear | Specialized equipment and tools, such as cranes, lifts, hot air welders, spray rigs, induction welders, and safety systems |
License and insurance | License and insurance from the state of New Jersey | License and insurance from the state of New Jersey, plus additional licenses and certifications, such as NRCA, BBB, and GAF |
Warranty and guarantee | Warranty and guarantee for their work and materials, usually for 10 to 20 years | Warranty and guarantee for their work and materials, usually for 20 to 35 years |
What is a residential roofing contractor?
A residential roofing contractor is a roofing professional who specializes in installing, repairing, and maintaining roofs for homes and other residential buildings. Residential roofing contractors typically work with steep-slope roofs, which have a slope of more than 3:12 (14 degrees). Residential roofing contractors use various roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles, wood shingles, metal, slate, tile, and rubber, depending on the style, design, and budget of the home. Residential roofing contractors also offer services such as roof inspections, roof cleaning, roof ventilation, and roof accessories, such as skylights, solar panels, and gutters.
What is a commercial roofing contractor?
A commercial roofing contractor is a roofing professional who specializes in installing, repairing, and maintaining roofs for commercial and industrial buildings, such as offices, warehouses, factories, schools, hospitals, and more. Commercial roofing contractors typically work with low-slope or flat roofs, which have a slope of less than 3:12 (14 degrees). Commercial roofing contractors use various roofing materials, such as thermoplastic single-ply membranes, modified bitumen, built-up roofing, metal, and green roofs, depending on the function, performance, and budget of the building. Commercial roofing contractors also offer services such as roof inspections, roof coatings, roof restoration, and roof maintenance.
What are the differences between residential and commercial roofing contractors?
Some of the main differences between residential and commercial roofing contractors are:
- The size and scope of the project. Residential roofing projects are usually smaller and simpler than commercial roofing projects, which can involve large and complex roofs with multiple sections, penetrations, and details. Residential roofing projects can take anywhere from one to five days, while commercial roofing projects can take anywhere from several days to months.
- The skills and experience required. Residential roofing contractors need to have the skills and experience to work with steep-slope roofs and various roofing materials, as well as to match the aesthetic and functional needs of the homeowners. Commercial roofing contractors need to have the skills and experience to work with low-slope or flat roofs and various roofing materials, as well as to meet the performance and durability requirements of the building owners and managers.
- The equipment and tools used. Residential roofing contractors use basic equipment and tools, such as trucks, ladders, nail guns, compressors, and safety gear, to install and repair roofs. Commercial roofing contractors use specialized equipment and tools, such as cranes, lifts, hot air welders, spray rigs, induction welders, and safety systems, to install and repair roofs.
- The license and insurance required. Both residential and commercial roofing contractors need to have a valid license and insurance from the state of New Jersey. However, commercial roofing contractors may need to have additional licenses and certifications, such as the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and the GAF Master Elite Contractor Program, to demonstrate their quality and professionalism in the industry.
- The warranty and guarantee offered. Both residential and commercial roofing contractors offer warranties and guarantees for their work and materials. However, commercial roofing contractors may offer longer and more comprehensive warranties and guarantees, such as the GAF Diamond Pledge ™ Guarantee, which covers both material defects and workmanship errors for up to 35 years1.
How to choose the best roofing contractor for your project in New Jersey?
To choose the best roofing contractor for your project in New Jersey, you should consider the following factors:
- The type and size of your roof. You should choose a roofing contractor who specializes in the type and size of your roof, whether it is a steep-slope or a low-slope roof, and whether it is a small or a large roof. You should also choose a roofing contractor who has experience and expertise in working with the roofing material that you prefer, whether it is asphalt, metal, slate, tile, rubber, or any other material.
- The quality and reputation of the roofing contractor. You should choose a roofing contractor who has a good reputation and a proven track record of delivering high-quality and durable roofs. You should check their website, portfolio, credentials, and reviews. You should also verify their license, insurance, and warranty information. You can use the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs website2 to check the license status and complaint history of any roofing contractor in New Jersey. You can also use the GAF website3 to find certified roofing contractors in New Jersey who have met the highest standards of quality and professionalism in the industry.
- The cost and value of the roofing contractor. You should choose a roofing contractor who offers a fair and competitive price for your project, without compromising on the quality and performance of your roof. You should get at least three written estimates from different roofing contractors and compare them. You should look for any discrepancies or red flags, such as lowball offers, hidden fees, or vague terms. You should also ask for references and testimonials from previous customers and contact them to verify the quality and satisfaction of the work.
- The customer service and communication of the roofing contractor. You should choose a roofing contractor who provides excellent customer service and communication. A roofing contractor who provides excellent customer service and communication is responsive, courteous, honest, and respectful. They listen to your needs and expectations and answer your questions and concerns. They keep you informed and updated throughout the project and address any issues or problems that may arise. They also provide you with a clear and detailed contract and invoice and follow up with you after the project is completed.
Why choose RGB Construction for your roofing project in New Jersey?
If you are looking for a residential or commercial roofing contractor in New Jersey, you should choose RGB Construction. RGB Construction is a family-owned and operated roofing company that has been serving the New Jersey community since 2007. We have the experience, expertise, and equipment to handle any roofing project, no matter how big or small. We are certified by the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and the GAF Master Elite Contractor Program. We offer the following benefits to our customers:
- Free estimates and consultations
- High-quality materials and workmanship
- Lifetime warranties and guarantees
- Flexible financing options
- Fast and efficient service
- Friendly and professional staff
- Customer satisfaction and referrals
If you need a residential or commercial roofing contractor in New Jersey, don’t hesitate to call us at 856-264-9093 or visit our website4 to book your free estimate and consultation. We are ready to help you with your roofing needs and exceed your expectations.
FAQs
- Q: What are the advantages of hiring a residential roofing contractor for your home in New Jersey?
- A: The advantages of hiring a residential roofing contractor for your home in New Jersey are:
- They have the skills and experience to work with steep-slope roofs and various roofing materials, such as asphalt, wood, metal, slate, tile, and rubber, depending on the style, design, and budget of your home.
- They can provide you with a wide range of roofing options and solutions that can match the aesthetic and functional needs of your home.
- They can offer you a warranty and guarantee for their work and materials, which can cover both material defects and workmanship errors for up to 20 years.
- They can provide you with excellent customer service and communication, which can make the process easier and more enjoyable for you.
- Q: What are the advantages of hiring a commercial roofing contractor for your building in New Jersey?
- A: The advantages of hiring a commercial roofing contractor for your building in New Jersey are:
- They have the skills and experience to work with low-slope or flat roofs and various roofing materials, such as thermoplastic single-ply membranes, modified bitumen, built-up roofing, metal, and green roofs, depending on the function, performance, and budget of your building.
- They can provide you with a wide range of roofing options and solutions that can meet the performance and durability requirements of your building, such as energy efficiency, fire resistance, and hail resistance.
- They can offer you a warranty and guarantee for their work and materials, which can cover both material defects and workmanship errors for up to 35 years.
- They can provide you with fast and efficient service, which can minimize the disruption and downtime of your business.
- Q: How can I tell if I need a residential or a commercial roofing contractor for my project in New Jersey?
- A: You can tell if you need a residential or a commercial roofing contractor for your project in New Jersey by looking at the type and size of your roof, the type and quality of your roofing material, and the purpose and function of your building. If you have a steep-slope roof, a small or medium-sized roof, a roofing material that is suitable for residential use, and a building that is used for residential purposes, you need a residential roofing contractor. If you have a low-slope or flat roof, a large or complex roof, a roofing material that is suitable for commercial use, and a building that is used for commercial or industrial purposes, you need a commercial roofing contractor.
- Q: How much does it cost to hire a residential or a commercial roofing contractor in New Jersey?
- A: The cost to hire a residential or a commercial roofing contractor in New Jersey depends on several factors, such as the size, slope, and complexity of your roof, the type and quality of your roofing material, the labor and materials required, the location and accessibility of your property, and the availability and demand of roofing contractors. The average cost to hire a residential roofing contractor in New Jersey ranges from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on these factors. The average cost to hire a commercial roofing contractor in New Jersey ranges from $10,000 to $30,000, depending on these factors.
- Q: How long does it take to complete a residential or a commercial roofing project in New Jersey?
- A: The time it takes to complete a residential or a commercial roofing project in New Jersey depends on several factors, such as the size, slope, and complexity of your roof, the type and quality of your roofing material, the weather and climate conditions, and the availability and skill of the roofing crew. The average time it takes to complete a residential roofing project in New Jersey ranges from one to five days, depending on these factors. The average time it takes to complete a commercial roofing project in New Jersey ranges from several days to months, depending on these factors.
- Q: How can I find the best residential or commercial roofing contractor in New Jersey?
- A: You can find the best residential or commercial roofing contractor in New Jersey by asking for referrals, checking online reviews and ratings, verifying their license, insurance, and certification, getting multiple estimates, and avoiding storm chasers. You can also contact us at RGB Construction, a family-owned and operated roofing company in New Jersey that specializes in both residential and commercial roofing. We have the experience, expertise, and equipment to handle any roofing project, no matter how big or small. We are certified by the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and the GAF Master Elite Contractor Program. We offer free estimates and consultations, high-quality materials and workmanship, lifetime warranties and guarantees, flexible financing options, fast and efficient service, friendly and professional staff, customer satisfaction and referrals.
Facts and Statistics
- According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there were 9,900 roofing contractors in New Jersey in 2019, which accounted for 2.4% of the total roofing contractors in the U.S. The annual mean wage of roofing contractors in New Jersey was $64,140, which was 9.8% higher than the national average of $58,410.
- According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median value of owner-occupied homes in New Jersey was $348,800 in 2019, which was the 6th highest in the nation. The median monthly housing costs for owner-occupied homes with a mortgage in New Jersey was $2,455, which was the 4th highest in the nation.
- According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), the average annual electricity consumption for residential buildings in New Jersey was 7,287 kilowatt-hours (kWh) in 2019, which was 31.5% lower than the national average of 10,649 kWh. The average annual electricity consumption for commercial buildings in New Jersey was 14,211 kWh in 2019, which was 10.9% lower than the national average of 15,945 kWh.
- According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), the average homeowners insurance premium in New Jersey was $1,209 in 2018, which was the 14th highest in the nation. The average commercial property insurance premium in New Jersey was $1,451 in 2019, which was the 12th highest in the nation.