What Is Built Up Roofing?

As a homeowner, understanding what built up roofing is and how it works is an essential part of maintaining the integrity of your home. Built up roofing (BUR) has been used for centuries as an affordable and reliable method of protecting buildings from the elements. In this article, we’ll explore BUR in greater depth by looking at its components, installation process, advantages, and disadvantages compared to other types of roofs. 

Built-up roofing systems are composed of several layers that work together to form a waterproof barrier against rain, snow, and wind. It usually consists of alternating layers of asphalt-saturated felt paper or fiberglass mats covered with gravel or mineral granules to protect against UV rays. You can reinforce the system with metal flashing around vents and drains to prevent water infiltration into the building’s interior walls. 

The installation process for BUR involves laying out each layer on top of one another until the desired number is achieved – typically four layers – then covering them with hot tar or hot asphalt combined with gravel or mineral granules to protect them from UV damage. This roofing offers many benefits over other types, such as being more fire-resistant than shingle roofs. Still, it also has some drawbacks, like needing to be more suitable for steeply pitched surfaces due to its heavy weight. 

By examining what built-up roofing is made from, how it’s installed, plus its pros and cons compared to other materials available today – readers will gain valuable insight into whether this type could be a good fit for their home improvement project needs!

What Is Built Up Roofing?

Built up roofing is a type of roof system that uses multiple layers of materials to create a robust and waterproof surface. It’s often referred to as “tar and gravel” or “hot tar” because it involves the application of hot bitumen between layers of fabric. The result is an incredibly durable roof that can withstand many different conditions.

The primary benefit of built-up roofing systems is their longevity; they typically last 20-30 years without needing major repairs or replacements. Additionally, these roofs are highly resistant to water damage and wind uplift due to the heavy felt paper and asphalt in their construction. Furthermore, since they don’t require complex installation processes, they tend to be less expensive than other types of commercial roofs.

However, there are some drawbacks associated with built-up roofs as well. For instance, they require regular maintenance – such as sweeping debris from gravel surfaces or replacing damaged felt paper – which can add high costs over time if not performed regularly enough. Additionally, these roofs can become extremely hot during summer due to the intense heat absorbed by black asphalt components, making them uncomfortable for people working underneath them in direct sunlight. Nevertheless, overall built-up roofing remains one of the most popular commercial rooftop options on the market today due to its affordability and durability when properly maintained. With this knowledge about what built up roofing entails, let’s look at its advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Built-Up Roofing

Built-up roofing, also known as BUR, is a roofing system composed of multiple layers of bitumen and reinforcing fabrics. It’s an attractive option for many commercial buildings due to its long lifespan, durability, and cost-effectiveness. But there are some pros and cons to consider before installing a built-up roof on your property.

  • One advantage of built-up roofs is their fire resistance; the multiple layers provide insulation from the heat generated by fires in surrounding areas. Additionally, you can customize these roofs with various colors or reflective coatings that help reduce energy costs during the hot summer months. On the other hand, one disadvantage is that BUR systems require frequent maintenance, such as periodic inspections for damage or leaks, since they’re prone to weather conditions like wind and hail storms. 
  • Another downside of this flat roofing system is its weight; it requires additional support structures, which can significantly increase construction costs if you’re building from scratch. Furthermore, installation time may be longer than other types because each layer needs time to dry before adding another layer on top – not ideal if you need quick repairs done after storm damage! 

Despite these drawbacks, built-up roofs remain popular among business owners due to their affordability compared with more expensive options like metal or tile roofs– making them worth considering when evaluating different kinds of flat roofing systems available today. Proper maintenance and upkeep can last decades without needing major repairs or replacements – giving you peace of mind knowing your investment will pay off in the long run! Now let’s look at some installation techniques for a built up roof.

Installation Techniques for A Built Up Roof

Installing a built-up roof is an important decision that requires careful consideration. Understanding the process and techniques involved is essential to ensure a successful outcome. In this article, we’ll explore some installation techniques for built-up roofing systems so you can make an informed decision.

First, properly preparing your roof surface is essential before installing new materials. It includes removing shingles or debris, checking for moisture damage, and making repairs or replacements. Once the surface is ready, install underlayment material such as felt paper or rubber membrane before laying shingle layers. Consider installing additional insulation for energy efficiency and noise reduction purposes. 

When you’re ready to lay down the asphalt-impregnated felt strips known as “roofing felts,” start at the bottom edge of your roof with one layer overlapping each successive layer slightly from side-to-side until you reach the ridge line at the peak of your roof structure. Secure these layers with nails every few feet along their length and seal them together using hot asphalt applied between each strip where they overlap one another according to top manufacturer instructions included in product packaging materials when purchased from suppliers like Lowes or Home Depot stores near you. 

Properly installed built up roofs are designed to last many decades provided they receive regular maintenance inspections and minor repairs when needed throughout their lifetime – something we’ll cover next in our section about tips on how best to maintain you’re newly installed built up roof system, so it lasts longer than expected!

To recap, built up roofing is an excellent choice for anyone looking to protect their structure from the elements. It offers superior protection, durability, and longevity compared to other materials. The installation process can be complex and time-consuming, but it will last many years with minimal maintenance. 

Overall, built up roofing can be an excellent option if you take the time to do your research and find a qualified contractor. If you keep up with regular maintenance and repairs, this roof should serve you well for decades! If you are considering installing a new roof on your home or business building, consider built-up roofs one of your top choices!