Built-up Roofing Systems for Commercial Roofing

For over 100 years, built-up roofing systems have satisfied U.S. customers. Built-up roofing, often referred to as BUR for short, is among one of the most commonly installed commercial roofing systems used in America, due to its wide variety of protection purposes and classically acclaimed durability.

Built-up Roofing: The Basics

Built-up roofing systems are made up of two central ingredients, both serving a specific and important purpose. Bitumen, which you may identify as asphalt or coal tars, provides the roof with waterproofing and strong adhesion, while ply sheets, or “felts”, prevent the roof from tears, punctures, and other damage. Usually, these BUR surfacing elements are coated to fend against UV radiation, early aging, and even to minimize indoor heating and cooling expenses.

Built-up roofing systems are sometimes called “tar and gravel” roofs, as they are normally comprised of the bitumen materials asphalt, coal tar, or cold-applied adhesive. However, the coating and materials used on the roof solely depends on your desired results and your budget.

The two most common built-up roofs are flat Asphalt built-up, either hot or cold, and Ballasted Asphalt built-up. Asphalt built-up was at one time more popular in comparison to Ballasted, but recently, the demand for Ballasted asphalt has spiked due to its superb finish surface and its ability to deter fire.

Is Built-Up Roofing Right for You?

Built-up roofing is the most desired system for many customers, especially those who have low-sloped roofs. This roofing system stands out among others of the like because it is so finely finished with a surfacing or coating material that each individual has the opportunity to choose. These coating materials have earned Built-up roofing its status as one of the most adequate, stable roofing systems on the market.

Built-up roofing systems are designed to withstand extreme and wavering weather conditions, whether it be excessive rainfall, or dangerously hot temperatures. Its coating helps protect the roof’s membrane from UV ray vulnerability, as well as potential wind damage that may occur in susceptible atmospheres. Many people trust their built-up roofing system to defend against and resist fire damage and other threatening occurrences, like large chunks of sleet and hail.

Aside from its exceptional strengths in weather and fire resistance, the built-up roofing system also has many perks in terms of practicalities. For one thing, built-up roofing provides its consumers with easy and low roof maintenance, which saves users from having to spend additional time and money on frequent and persistent repairs. Built-up roofing also has a long life expectancy, lasting anywhere from 20-30 years.

After spending more than 100 years of providing consumers with remarkable protection, it’s safe to say built-up roofing systems are quite reliable. However, as with any system, it’s important to note the hazards and downfalls associated with built-up roofing. One thing consumers should be aware of is the amount of time it takes to properly install built-up roofing systems. If your project is time-sensitive, you should know that installing a built-up roof system is an extensive process that may take more time than other roofing options. Additionally, working with and being exposed to some of the materials needed to install this type of roofing system may produce hazardous fumes and vapors.