What Roofing Accessories Do You Need for a Commercial Job?

In addition to the basic roofing tools listed in the previous chapter for residential use, a professional roofing company may use more advanced commercial tools on-the-job, like:

  • Caulk Gun: A commercial caulk gun is necessary to seal roofing materials with the use of an adhesive administered from the gun barrel. Sealant is most often used around skylights and flashings for weatherproofing.
  • Hydraulic Hoist: To build a roof on a multistory structure, an engine powered hoist can be used to transport up to 1000 pounds onto a roof deck at an average speed of 125 FPM.
  • Mini Saw: A lightweight handsaw can be used to cut roofing materials in hard-to-reach areas, such as around air conditioners, underneath vents, and for patch work.
  • Roofing Nailer: A commercial grade roofing nail gun will use pneumatic force to rapidly fire roofing nails into tile.
  • Power Broom: A roof deck can be cleared of snow and debris quickly and efficiently with an engine powered broom that sweeps with a poly or stainless steel brush.
  • Steel Roller: A heavy-duty steel roof roller is often used by contractors to roll a steel roof. Various attachments may be included to roll on irregular surfaces.

Depending upon the type of roofing materials that are used in a commercial structure, equipment needs will vary greatly.

For example, asphalt roof construction may call for specific commercial contractor tools to get the job done, like a hot asphalt steel mop, wall hot pipe or tubing, an infrared thermometer, a hot asphalt carrier, a roof saw, and an asphalt kettle.

For any type of commercial job, large-scale cleanup equipment is necessary to remove debris from multistory buildings. This commercial cleaning and maintenance equipment may include a trailer with a safety brake, an insulation cart, an upright insulation carrier, and trash chutes or dumpsters.

In order to comply with all on-the-job safety requirements, a commercial roofing company will also have to provide roofers with the necessary safety materials for skylight protection, perimeter protection, fall protection, and personal safety.

When installing or repairing roofing on a commercial structure, roofers will often wear full body harnesses and rely on the added security of a perimeter fall protection system to keep contractors from falling off a roof deck.

Although we touched upon the basics of residential and commercial roofing materials in the past two chapters, it’s time to dig a little deeper. In the next chapter, we’re going to dive right in and explore different types of residential and commercial roofing to help you make the best decision in the roofing materials you choose for your property.