Materials do matter when it comes to getting a new roofing system for your commercial property. You’ll want to pick one that can effectively withstand the harshest weather and provide decades of good performance. Take built up roofing (BUR), for example. It has been around for a hundred years, but remains a viable roofing option among property managers. If you’re interested to learn more about this excellent option, the premier storm damage repair company in the area, Your Professional Roofer has this quick guide.

What is Built-Up Roofing?

Also referred to as a ‘tar and gravel’ roof, built up roofing is made of alternating layers of bitumen and reinforcing fabrics, plus a top layer of aggregate, to create a finished membrane. It is the most common roofing material used on low-slope and flat roofing systems because it creates an unbroken sealed surface. Modern types of BUR may also include a rigid insulation layer to help improve the building’s energy efficiency. Built up roofing comes in two types, including:

• Heat-Applied, which involves heating the asphalt or coal tar in a kettle or tanker to liquefy it. Your industrial roofing company then applies it via a mop or mechanical spreader.
• Cold-Applied, which uses solvent-based asphalt that doesn’t require liquefaction. Instead of using a mop or spreader, this type of BUR is either sprayed or applied with a squeegee. Cold-applied BUR doesn’t rely on good weather for its application–plus it doesn’t emit toxic fumes during the process. It may also offer greater performance compared to heat-applied BUR.

Built up roofing can last up to 30 years with proper installation and maintenance–but you’ll need to take into account the quality of the materials used for it, along with your area’s specific weather patterns. If you decide to go for BUR, you’ll find that it can provide exceptional waterproofing and ultraviolet protection. Its top layer of aggregate helps keep the system resistant to fire, and because it’s low-maintenance, you won’t have to worry as much about its upkeep.

Aside from metal roofs, Your Professional Roofer also works with BUR roofing systems. We’ll keep your commercial property safe and intact from weather damage through our high-quality options. We proudly serve the areas in and around Saint Peters, MO. Call us today at (636) 866-5660 or fill out this contact form to schedule your roof evaluation.