Built-up roofs are highly popular commercial roofs installed on large buildings today due to their cost-effective durability and longevity.

While built up roofing may require occasional repairs throughout the years, it makes tough and durable protection for buildings with flat roofs.

When properly installed and maintained by experienced commercial roofers, built up roofing is a top choice by owners of large buildings needing an economical roofing solution.

What Is Built Up Roofing?

Built up roofing, also known as BUR for short or tar-and-grave roofing, is a system designed for larger buildings with flat tops.

It is an asphalt-based system made of felting material, asphalt, and finely crushed stone or gravel that are applied in layers to create a built-up coating over the top of the building.

The different layers installed by commercial roofers provide waterproofing to the roof, create insulation, and protect it from the elements with its final layer of durable crushed stone.

What Are The Advantages of Built Up Commercial Roofs?

Built up commercial roofs offer many important advantages, making them one of the most commonly installed roofs on larger buildings:

• Durability and Longevity - BUR roofs are tough, with a top layer of crushed gravel that can last 20 to 30 years with proper care. They are one of the longer-lasting commercial installations for large flat roofing installations.
• Low Maintenance - When properly installed by an experienced commercial roofer, BUR requires relatively little maintenance other than frequent inspections and prompt attention to minor repairs should they become necessary.
• Watertight - This layered, asphalt-based roofing system adheres to the top of the building to create a watertight protective coating when there is adequate roof drainage to prevent water from collecting.
• Fire-Resistant - With its covering of crushed rock, BUR is more fire-resistant than other systems used on flat roofs.
• Energy-Efficient - Light-colored crushed stone coating on top of a BUR reflects UV energy reducing its passage into the building, while the insulative properties of this layered system help to maintain the interior temperature of the building.

What Are The Main Disadvantages of Built Up Roofing?

Although built up roofing provides building owners with advantages, there are a few disadvantages worth noting to ensure making an informed decision when deciding on a commercial roof replacement:

• Weight - Built up commercial roofing is considerably heavier than many other types and should only be used on a building structurally designed to bear this weight on its top.
• Complicated Installation - With many layers of different materials to apply, installing BUR can be time-consuming and somewhat more complex than other systems.
• Leaking and Blistering - When not properly installed or maintained, BUR can develop small leaks that can be challenging to detect for making repairs. Similarly, a poor installation that results in moisture between the layers can cause blistering, producing bubbles that can eventually crack, causing leaks.

Hire An Expert Commercial Roofer To Install A Durable Built Up Roof

Built up roofing is a preferred and cost-effective roofing choice for commercial buildings with large flat rooftops.

With proper maintenance and routine inspections done by an experienced commercial roofer, building owners can benefit from decades of protection against climate conditions of all kinds.

When the time comes for a new commercial roof replacement, talk to a professional commercial contractor about a tough, long-lasting BUR installation!

Need A Commercial Roof in Tallahassee Florida?

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