Everything You Need To Know About Built-Up Roofing

The Ultimate Guide to Built-Up Roofin g (BUR)

Built-up roofing (BUR) has stood the test of time as one of the most reliable roofing systems for low-slope or “flat” roofs. In this blog post, we’ll explore what BUR is, how it’s constructed, its advantages, and best practices for maintenance. Whether you’re a property owner, manager, or simply curious about roofing, this guide will help you understand if BUR is the right choice for your needs.

Built-up roofing (BUR) is a multi-layer roofing system typically used on commercial and industrial buildings. It combines layers of roofing fabrics or felts with bitumen (asphalt or coal tar), creating a durable, watertight roof membrane.

– Base Sheet: The foundational layer, often mechanically attached or adhered to the roof deck.

– Felts or Ply Sheets: Multiple layers of reinforced fabrics (often called plies) installed in between layers of hot asphalt or tar.

– Bitumen: The bonding agent (asphalt or coal tar) applied hot to fuse the layers together, creating a robust membrane.

– Top Surfacing: Typically gravel, mineral granules, or a specialized coating to protect against UV rays and foot traffic.

– Regular Inspections: Check for cracks, blisters, or areas of standing water.

– Keep It Clean: Remove debris regularly to prevent ponding water or roof membrane damage.

– Proper Drainage: Ensure drains, gutters, and scuppers aren’t blocked.

– Professional Assessments: Have roofing professionals conduct periodic inspections and make necessary repairs.

– Single-Ply Membranes (TPO, PVC, EPDM): These are typically thinner and faster to install than BUR but might offer less redundancy.