What is Built-Up Roofing (BUR), and how does it work?

Built-Up Roofing (BUR) is a traditional roofing system for commercial buildings. It consists of multiple layers of bitumen (asphalt or coal tar) alternating with reinforcing fabrics, such as fiberglass or organic mats. These layers are commonly referred to as "plies." The process involves hot or cold application of the bitumen and reinforcing fabric to create a robust and watertight roofing membrane.

What are the advantages of using Built-Up Roofing (BUR) for commercial buildings?

Built-Up Roofing offers several advantages for commercial buildings. It is known for its exceptional durability and longevity, with a proven track record of successful performance in various climates and weather conditions. The multiple layers provide excellent weather resistance, protecting against water infiltration and UV radiation. BUR is also fire-resistant, offering an added layer of safety. Additionally, it can be customized to meet specific performance requirements and is often considered cost-effective due to its long lifespan and lower installation costs compared to other roofing systems.

How long does Built-Up Roofing (BUR) typically last on commercial buildings?

When properly installed and maintained, Built-Up Roofing can last between 20 to 30 years or more. The exact lifespan may vary based on factors such as the quality of installation, the type of bitumen used, and the level of maintenance. Regular inspections and proactive maintenance by experienced roofing professionals, like Starkweather Roofing, can extend the roof's lifespan and ensure optimal performance.

Is Built-Up Roofing (BUR) suitable for all types of commercial buildings?

Built-Up Roofing is a versatile roofing system suitable for various commercial buildings, including those with flat or low-slope roofs. However, it is essential to consult with roofing experts to determine if the building's structure and design are compatible with BUR. Certain structures, such as those with complex roof designs or high-slope roofs, may require alternative roofing materials.

What maintenance is required for Built-Up Roofing (BUR) on commercial buildings?

Regular maintenance is crucial to ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of Built-Up Roofing. It is recommended to schedule professional inspections at least twice a year, typically during the spring and fall. Additionally, if severe weather events or storms occur, it's essential to have the roof inspected promptly for any damage that may have occurred. Starkweather Roofing offers comprehensive maintenance services to keep your BUR roofing system in excellent condition and address any issues before they escalate.

Can Built-Up Roofing (BUR) be installed on existing commercial roofs?

Yes, Built-Up Roofing can be installed as an overlay on existing commercial roofs, making it a cost-effective option for roof replacement projects. However, a thorough inspection by roofing professionals is essential to ensure the existing roof is suitable for the overlay and to address any underlying issues before installation. In some cases, a complete tear-off and replacement may be necessary for optimal performance.

Built Up Roofing (BUR) For Commercial Buildings

Time-Tested & Durable Roofing Solutions

Multi-Layer Protection

Fire & Wind Uplift Resistance

Thermal Insulating

Foot Traffic Approved

Built up roofing systems (BUR) provide multi-layer protection, insulating thermal value, fire and wind uplift resistance, durability, superb tensile strength, and resistance to extreme weather. They are suitable for all types of roof decks and have a successful 100+ year track record.

What Is A Built-Up Roofing System?

Built-up Roofing System (BUR), also known as tar and gravel roofing, is a flat or low-sloping roof constructed by alternating bitumen layers (asphalt or coal tar) and reinforcing fabrics, such as fiberglass or organic felts. These layers are then reinforced and topped with a layer of gravel or a mineral cap sheet to provide protection from weathering and physical damage.

BUR systems are very effective in many different geographic areas and climates, especially in extreme temperatures and weather conditions. They are known for their durability and longevity, with some BUR systems lasting up to 30 years or more.

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Components Of A Built-Up Roof System

A black, tar-like substance made from either asphalt or coal tar that is used to waterproof the roof.

Reinforcing layers of fabric that are used to provide structure and strength to the roof.

A layer of material that is used to provide thermal insulation and energy efficiency to the roof.

Strips of metal or other materials that are used to seal the edges and seams of the roof to prevent water from penetrating.

A layer of gravel or a mineral cap sheet that is used to protect the roof from weathering and physical damage.

Elevate Your BUR System

To elevate the performance of a BUR system, there are high-performance ply sheets made from fiberglass or organic felts that have been saturated and coated with asphalt for greater strength and durability. Another option may be reflective surfacing options that improve the energy efficiency of the roof by reflecting sunlight and reducing heat absorption.

Our knowledgeable Roofing Specialists will discuss and present the best options to fit your commercial roofing needs and budget.

Trust Starkweather Roofing For Your Built-Up Roofing Needs

At Starkweather Roofing, we take the time to understand our clients' needs and provide personalized roofing solutions that align with their budget and long-term goals. Our expertise in Built-Up Roofing ensures that your commercial property receives a durable and efficient roofing system that provides reliable protection for years to come.

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Experts In Built-Up Roofing For Commercial Buildings

As a family-owned company serving the local region and beyond since 1997, we understand the unique needs of area businesses. Companies choose our services time and time again due to the depth of our expertise and the one-on-one attention we offer each client.

You’ll be treated as more than just another job ticket when you trust us for your built-up roofing — we treat our clients like a part of the Starkweather family.

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The Benefits of Commercial Built-Up Roofing

With Starkweather Roofing's expertise and commitment to excellence, you can trust that your commercial property will be equipped with a durable and efficient roofing system built to withstand the test of time. Here are some of the key benefits of built-up roofing for commercial buildings with Starkweather Roofing:

Exceptional Durability

BUR roofing systems are known for their exceptional durability and longevity. The multiple layers of bitumen and reinforcing fabrics create a robust and resilient roofing membrane that can withstand the rigors of commercial use and weather challenges.

Proven Performance

BUR has a long history of successful performance in various climates and weather conditions. Its time-tested reliability has made it a preferred choice for many commercial property owners.

Weather Resistance

The multiple layers in the BUR system provide excellent resistance to water, UV radiation, and other environmental elements. This weatherproofing capability ensures protection against leaks and water damage.

Fire Resistance

BUR roofing systems can be constructed with fire-resistant materials, offering an added layer of safety for commercial buildings.

Affordable

BUR is often considered cost-effective due to its long lifespan and lower installation costs compared to some other commercial roofing options.

Customizable

BUR systems can be tailored to meet the specific needs of different commercial buildings. The number of plies and choice of materials can be adjusted to achieve the desired level of performance and longevity.

Commercial Built-Up BUR Roofing FAQs

Got a question? We’re here to help.

What is Built-Up Roofing (BUR), and how does it work?

Built-Up Roofing (BUR) is a traditional roofing system for commercial buildings. It consists of multiple layers of bitumen (asphalt or coal tar) alternating with reinforcing fabrics, such as fiberglass or organic mats. These layers are commonly referred to as "plies." The process involves hot or cold application of the bitumen and reinforcing fabric to create a robust and watertight roofing membrane.
What are the advantages of using Built-Up Roofing (BUR) for commercial buildings?

Built-Up Roofing offers several advantages for commercial buildings. It is known for its exceptional durability and longevity, with a proven track record of successful performance in various climates and weather conditions. The multiple layers provide excellent weather resistance, protecting against water infiltration and UV radiation. BUR is also fire-resistant, offering an added layer of safety. Additionally, it can be customized to meet specific performance requirements and is often considered cost-effective due to its long lifespan and lower installation costs compared to other roofing systems.
How long does Built-Up Roofing (BUR) typically last on commercial buildings?

When properly installed and maintained, Built-Up Roofing can last between 20 to 30 years or more. The exact lifespan may vary based on factors such as the quality of installation, the type of bitumen used, and the level of maintenance. Regular inspections and proactive maintenance by experienced roofing professionals, like Starkweather Roofing, can extend the roof's lifespan and ensure optimal performance.
Is Built-Up Roofing (BUR) suitable for all types of commercial buildings?

Built-Up Roofing is a versatile roofing system suitable for various commercial buildings, including those with flat or low-slope roofs. However, it is essential to consult with roofing experts to determine if the building's structure and design are compatible with BUR. Certain structures, such as those with complex roof designs or high-slope roofs, may require alternative roofing materials.
What maintenance is required for Built-Up Roofing (BUR) on commercial buildings?

Regular maintenance is crucial to ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of Built-Up Roofing. It is recommended to schedule professional inspections at least twice a year, typically during the spring and fall. Additionally, if severe weather events or storms occur, it's essential to have the roof inspected promptly for any damage that may have occurred. Starkweather Roofing offers comprehensive maintenance services to keep your BUR roofing system in excellent condition and address any issues before they escalate.
Can Built-Up Roofing (BUR) be installed on existing commercial roofs?

Yes, Built-Up Roofing can be installed as an overlay on existing commercial roofs, making it a cost-effective option for roof replacement projects. However, a thorough inspection by roofing professionals is essential to ensure the existing roof is suitable for the overlay and to address any underlying issues before installation. In some cases, a complete tear-off and replacement may be necessary for optimal performance.

Contact Us For Commercial Built-Up Systems

When you choose Starkweather Roofing as your roofing partner, you benefit from our decades of experience, commitment to quality, and personalized approach. Contact us today to explore the possibilities of Built-Up Roofing (BUR) for your commercial property and experience the Starkweather Roofing difference.

We Aren't Just Experts In Built-Up Roofing

Starkweather Roofing stands out as an unrivaled expert in a wide range of commercial roofing services, making us the premier choice for all commercial roofing needs. With over 27 years of experience in the industry, we've honed our skills and expertise, offering comprehensive solutions for various roofing materials, including TPO, SPF, metal, tile, and modified bitumen.