Built-up roofing is a tar-and-gravel roof. Roofers alternate layers of bitumen with reinforced fabric to create the membrane of the roofing system. They finish the top off with fine gravel or small stones. Built-up roofs are heavy, so they're primarily used only for commercial buildings. Property owners do have other options, but keep reading to discover what these systems have to offer.
Accessibility
Built-up roofing is primarily for flat roofs. The top layer of gravel offers superior tread. The roofs themselves are sturdy. So, access to the rooftop is easy and safe. This quality is ideal for property owners who need to conduct repairs on the top of the building. It also allows for easy access to rooftop items such as HVAC systems.
Fire Protection
Roofers typically use asphalt, coal tar, or a cold-applied adhesive for the roofing membrane. Those materials themselves don't necessarily offer fire protection. However, the top layer of gravel does make the roofs fire-safe. What's more, you can have the roofers add a ballasted asphalt, which makes them even more fire-safe.
Energy Efficiency
Another add-on you can specify is cool roof technology. This add-on consists of a heavy-duty white paint that reflects light and heat back out. As a result, the area under your roof doesn't get hot, so you can cut down on cooling costs. Those costs can be significant in a commercial property.
Durability
Flat roofs tend to show good durability anyway because they don't face as much wind pressure. However, the construction of a built-up roofing membrane results in a system that seals down onto the roof decking. As a result, such systems are very resistant to the physical pressure of wind and other weather exposure.
Low Maintenance
A big part of the budget for property owners is often building maintenance. Built-up roofs' durability translates into little maintenance. Occasionally you may have to have another layer of gravel applied to the top. Yet you have far fewer parts than a shingle roof. As The Balance points out, this low maintenance profile means you have fewer maintenance costs.
Multi-Layer Protection
The roofers have some leeway in what materials they can use in your built-up roofing system. As noted, they have the different binder options as well as the various top coats. They can also choose between glass-fiber or organic mats for the reinforced fabric. As a result, you can tailor your roof to specific needs. For instance, you could specify an underlayment for moisture control.
To learn more about built-up roofing systems, contact professionals in your area.
