Built-up roofing (BUR) systems have been around since the 1800s. They are among the most practical and cost-saving roofing solutions available to commercial property owners. The roofers at Valley Peak Roofing Co. reveal that BUR systems account for North America’s largest segment of roofing systems worth over $700 million.
The built-up roofing system has many advantages, which has led to its widespread adoption in commercial properties. As a commercial property owner, you too can enjoy these advantages. They include;
Low Maintenance
Most commercial facilities and businesses are unable to realize their target profit due to high overhead costs. A bad or high-maintenance commercial roof can also contribute to this. Commercial property owners and operators can save costs by choosing a built-up roofing system.
Built-up roofing systems require minimal upkeep and can be inspected one to two times a year to ensure they are up to standard. Businesses can save a lot of money from their minimal upkeep and low-cost requirements.
Long-Term Durability
Durability is an important consideration for most people when choosing a roofing material. The BUR system holds up to its promise by offering high resistance against harsh weather elements, including hailstorms and windstorms. The material is also a great installation for properties surrounded by tall trees with long branches. BUR systems can resist punctures and withstand heavy force from broken tree limbs, dropped tools, etc.
Multi-Layer Protection
Built-up roofing systems are made up of bitumen, ply sheets and surfacing materials. This material combination offers commercial buildings the needed multi-layer protection against weather elements and impact force.
The multi-layer protection is also an added advantage in the fight against moisture and its effect. Commercial properties with BUR systems in place hardly face mold and mildew problems arising from leaks and moisture.
Excellent Waterproofing
Moisture problems are among the biggest challenges most commercial buildings and facilities face. Most often than not, this problem may be detected late and may have wreaked havoc before it is fixed.
The built-up roofing system prevents leaks and water problems by offering several layers of protection to commercial properties. The installation process also creates strong, impervious asphalt glue that holds the roofing system in place.
Flame and Fire Retardant
There are three types of built-up roofing systems, all offering flame and fire retardant properties to commercial properties. The ballasted asphalt offers the most fire protection among the three options because it uses an attractive finish with fire-retardant properties. The additional protection offered by the extra finish layer makes it a perfect solution for commercial properties in fire-prone areas.
Commercial property owners concerned about environmental friendliness and reducing harmful fumes produced during the ballasted asphalt installation can choose the cold built-up roofing. This option offers a similar level of fire protection without the potentially harmful fumes released during installation.
Improves Energy Efficiency
The multiple layers involved in installing the built-up roofing make it an excellent insulation addition to commercial properties. In addition, the roofing system’s top layer also has high reflectivity properties. The reflective surface protects the roof and property from harmful UV rays while also shielding it from high temperatures. Commercial property owners can improve their property’s overall energy efficiency and save money on indoor comfort by using this roofing system.
Long Lifespan
Ballasted asphalt built-up roofing paired with high-quality ply offers long-lasting protection to properties. On average, built-up roofing systems can last up to 30 years, delivering year-on-year protection and cost saving.
For context, asphalt roll roofs offer at most 10 to 12 years of protection.
Cost and Space Saving
Commercial buildings with flat or low-slope roofing can enjoy the many benefits of built-up roofing for years. The roofing material is cost-effective, especially as it is relatively cheap and offers long-term protection of up to 30 years. The roofing material is also space-saving, as it can be laid over flat roofing surfaces without hassles.
Easy to Repair
Your built-up roofing can sometimes get damaged, especially when a proper maintenance plan is not in place. However, the repair process is easy. Common problems like ripples in the surface, blisters, and cracks in the material can easily be repaired by overlaying a new material or patching the roof.
The patching process is fast, affordable, and guarantees renewed protection for years to come.
As a commercial property owner, these advantages are essential for protecting your building, cutting overhead costs, and widening your profit margin. You can enjoy the many benefits of built-up roofing systems by contacting your commercial roofer for help.
