Everything You Need to Know About Built-Up Roofs

Built-up roofs, also known as BURs, have been used for decades as a popular choice for commercial roof materials. These types of roofs are made up of layers of asphalt and bitumen, which provide a durable and waterproof barrier for buildings. They are commonly used on low-slope or flat roofs, making them a practical option for many commercial properties. In this article, we will dive deep into the world of built-up roofs and cover everything you need to know about them.

From their composition and installation process to their benefits and maintenance, we will leave no stone unturned. So if you're in the market for a new commercial roof or simply looking to learn more about roofing materials, keep reading to discover all there is to know about built-up roofs. Built-up roofs, also known as BURs, have been a popular choice for commercial buildings for many years. These roofs are composed of multiple layers of bitumen, which is a type of asphalt or coal tar, and reinforced with various materials such as gravel, fiberglass, or fabric. This layering process creates a strong and waterproof barrier that protects the building from the elements. Now that we have the basics down, let's dive into the different types of built-up roofs available.

There are three main types of BURs: hot applied, cold applied, and ballasted. Hot applied BURs involve heating the bitumen and applying it with a mop or mechanical spreader. This type of BUR is typically used for low-slope roofs and can provide excellent protection against water and weather damage. Cold applied BURs, on the other hand, use a solvent-based adhesive to apply the layers of bitumen. This method is often preferred for its ease of installation and lack of fumes.

However, it may not be as durable as hot applied BURs. The third type of BUR, ballasted, involves using large rocks or gravel to hold down the layers of bitumen. This type of roof is typically used on flat or low-slope roofs and can provide excellent insulation and UV protection. Now that you know the different types of built-up roofs, let's discuss some of their benefits. Built-up roofs are known for their durability and longevity. With proper maintenance, they can last up to 30 years or more.

They are also fire-resistant and can help reduce energy costs by providing insulation. Additionally, built-up roofs are versatile and can be customized to fit the specific needs and requirements of a building. They are also relatively low-cost compared to other roofing options, making them a cost-effective choice for commercial buildings. In conclusion, built-up roofs are a popular and reliable choice for commercial buildings. They offer excellent protection against the elements, are long-lasting, and can be customized to fit the specific needs of a building. If you are in need of roofing repairs, installations, replacements, or inspections for your commercial building, consider choosing built-up roofs for their many benefits.

Modified Bitumen Built-Up Roofs

Modified bitumen built-up roofs are a popular choice for commercial buildings, offering versatility and durability.

Similar to conventional built-up roofs, modified bitumen roofs consist of multiple layers of bitumen and insulation. However, what sets them apart is the addition of rubber or plastic polymers to the bitumen, providing enhanced strength and longevity.

Conventional Built-Up Roofs

Built-up roofs, also known as BUR, are a popular choice for commercial buildings due to their versatility and durability. These roofs consist of three or more layers of bitumen, a type of asphalt, that are sandwiched between layers of insulation. This creates a strong and sturdy roofing system that is able to withstand harsh weather conditions and heavy foot traffic.

Built-up roofs are commonly used on flat or low-sloped roofs, making them a practical option for many commercial properties. The multiple layers provide added protection and insulation, making them a cost-effective and reliable choice for roofing projects. If you are in need of roofing repairs, installations, replacements, or inspections, consider using built-up roofs for your next project. Their proven track record and numerous benefits make them a top choice for many businesses.

So why wait? Contact a professional roofing contractor today and see how built-up roofs can benefit your commercial property.

Types of Built-Up Roofs

Built-up roofs come in a variety of types, each with their own unique features and benefits. The three main types of built-up roofs are conventional, modified bitumen, and ballasted. Conventional built-up roofs consist of several layers of asphalt and felt, which are then topped with a layer of gravel or mineral granules. This type of built-up roof is the most common and offers excellent durability and protection against the elements.

Modified bitumen built-up roofs use a mix of asphalt and rubber or plastic polymers to create a more flexible and durable roof. This type of built-up roof is ideal for areas with extreme weather conditions, as it can withstand temperature changes and heavy foot traffic. Ballasted built-up roofs are similar to conventional built-up roofs, but instead of using gravel or mineral granules, they are topped with a layer of rocks or pavers. This type of built-up roof is known for its energy efficiency and can help reduce cooling costs for commercial buildings.

No matter which type of built-up roof you choose, you can trust that it will provide long-lasting protection for your commercial building. Consider consulting with a roofing professional to determine the best type of built-up roof for your specific needs.

Ballasted Built-Up Roofs

Built-up roofs are a popular choice for commercial buildings, and one type of built-up roof is the ballasted built-up roof. This type of roof uses a layer of rock or gravel as ballast to hold down the roof and protect it from wind damage. The ballast also helps to distribute weight evenly across the roof and provides additional insulation.

This makes ballasted built-up roofs a durable and cost-effective option for commercial properties. When installing a ballasted built-up roof, the layers typically include a base sheet, multiple layers of roofing felt, and a final layer of gravel or rock as the ballast. This combination creates a strong and resilient roofing system that can withstand harsh weather conditions. The gravel or rock used as ballast is typically placed in a layer that is at least 2 inches thick, providing adequate protection for the underlying roofing materials.

One of the main benefits of ballasted built-up roofs is their ability to resist wind uplift. The weight of the ballast helps to keep the roof in place, even during strong winds. This can save commercial property owners money in potential repairs or replacements due to wind damage. Additionally, the ballast also acts as a natural drainage system, allowing water to flow off the roof easily and preventing water from pooling or causing damage.

Overall, ballasted built-up roofs offer a strong and durable option for commercial buildings. With their ability to resist wind uplift and provide efficient drainage, they are a reliable choice for any roofing project. If you are considering a built-up roof for your commercial property, be sure to explore the benefits of a ballasted built-up roof and see if it is the right fit for your needs. No matter which type of built-up roof you choose, you can expect a long-lasting and reliable roofing solution for your commercial building. But what materials are used in the construction of these roofs? Let's find out!.