What Is A Built Up Roof? (Materials, Installation, and More)

When it comes to protecting your property, your roof plays a crucial role in durability and insulation. A popular option among property owners is the built up roof—a reliable roofing system that balances strength, weather resistance, and longevity. But what exactly is a built up roof, and why should you consider it for your property?

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about built up roofs, including:

• The materials that make up a built up roof
• The benefits of choosing a built up roof 
• A simple, step-by-step overview of the installation process

🤔 What Is A Built Up Roof?

A built up roof (BUR) is a layered roofing system made by alternating materials like bitumen and reinforcing fabrics. It’s designed to create a durable, weather-resistant surface. BURs are most commonly found on low-slope or flat roofs.

The hallmark of this roofing style is its layered approach, often referred to as “ply sheets.” By alternating these layers with adhesives or asphalt, the finished product forms a seamless and robust barrier against harsh weather elements, abrasions, and heat.

Key Materials Used in Built Up Roofs

Built up roofs combine several essential materials to deliver their strength and performance. Here are the primary components you need to know:

• Bitumen: The waterproofing agent in BUR systems, acting as an adhesive between layers. Options include hot asphalt for a strong bond or cold-applied bitumen for a safer, adhesive-like application.
• Ply Sheets: Reinforcing layers made from glass fiber or organic materials, providing the roof’s core strength.
• Surfacing Material: The top layer protects against UV rays, water, and wear, with options like gravel for impact resistance or reflective coatings for energy efficiency.

👉 5 Top Benefits of a Built Up Roof

Wondering if a built up roof is worth the investment? Here are the standout advantages of BURs for property owners:

1. Proven Durability

Built-up roofs (BURs) are renowned for their longevity and resilience. When properly installed and maintained, these roofs can last anywhere from 20 to 30 years, offering homeowners peace of mind and a solid return on investment. They are designed to withstand the harshest elements, including heavy rain, strong winds, and even damaging hailstorms. Unlike other roofing systems that may degrade quickly under pressure, BURs provide a strong, long-lasting defense against nature’s challenges, making them a top choice for durability.

2. Excellent Waterproofing

One of the standout benefits of built-up roofs is their exceptional waterproofing capabilities. The seamless design of a BUR ensures a water-tight seal that effectively prevents leaks and resists standing water. This is particularly advantageous for flat or low-slope roofs, where water tends to pool and cause damage over time. By eliminating weak points where water might seep through, BURs provide robust protection against moisture intrusion, helping to preserve the structural integrity of your home.

3. Energy Efficiency

Built-up roofs can contribute significantly to energy efficiency, especially in warmer climates. With reflective surfacing options such as gravel or reflective coatings, BURs help reduce heat absorption, keeping indoor temperatures cooler during hot summer months. This means your air conditioning system doesn’t have to work as hard, leading to lower energy consumption and reduced utility bills. Additionally, the insulating properties of BURs also contribute to maintaining a stable indoor environment, further enhancing energy savings.

4. Minimal Maintenance

Another advantage of built-up roofs is their low maintenance requirements. Unlike more complicated roofing systems that demand frequent repairs or upkeep, BURs are relatively easy to maintain. Regular inspections to check for debris, minor wear, or potential damage are usually sufficient to keep your roof in excellent condition. For homeowners who want a hassle-free roofing option, this minimal upkeep makes BURs a practical and cost-effective choice.

5. Reliable Insulation

Built-up roofs are constructed with multiple layers of bitumen and reinforcing ply sheets, which not only strengthen the roof but also provide impressive insulation. These layers act as a thermal barrier, helping to regulate temperatures inside your home, whether it’s hot or cold outside. This reliable insulation enhances year-round comfort, reduces energy demand, and can even help dampen outside noise, creating a quieter and more comfortable living environment.

✅ How To Install A Built Up Roof (Step-by-Step)

While installing a built up roof is best done by experts, it helps to understand the general process. Here’s a simplified, step-by-step look at how professionals like Greentek Roofing handle the process:

1. Inspect the Roof

Start by thoroughly inspecting the roof deck to ensure it’s in good condition before beginning the installation process. Look for any signs of damage, such as cracks, holes, or rotting wood, as these can compromise the integrity of the roof. Remove all debris, dirt, or old roofing materials to prepare a clean surface. Any areas of weakness or damage must be repaired or reinforced to create a stable foundation for the new roofing system.

2. Apply Insulation

Once the roof deck is clean and repaired, install an insulation layer to improve energy efficiency and regulate indoor temperature. Insulation also helps create a smooth, even surface for the roofing materials and reduces heat transfer, making the building more energy-efficient. Choose the appropriate type of insulation for your roofing needs, whether it’s rigid foam boards or another material, and ensure it is securely fastened to prevent shifting over time.

3. Add Base Sheets

Next, lay down the base sheets, which act as the first layer of protection for the roof. These lightweight, reinforced sheets provide additional strength to the roofing system and safeguard the roof deck from moisture and environmental exposure. Carefully align and attach the base sheets, ensuring there are no wrinkles or gaps that could compromise the roof’s performance. Proper installation at this stage is critical to creating a strong and durable foundation.

4. Layer the Asphalt and Ply Sheets

This step involves alternating layers of hot asphalt or cold-applied bitumen with ply sheets. The asphalt layers act as an adhesive and waterproofing agent, bonding the ply sheets together and creating a robust, watertight membrane. The ply sheets add strength and stability to the roofing system. This combination of materials forms the core of the roof’s durability, ensuring it can withstand harsh weather conditions. Make sure each layer is evenly applied and properly aligned to prevent leaks or weak points.

5. Add Final Surfacing

For the final layer, apply a protective surfacing material such as gravel, mineral cap sheets, or reflective coatings. This top layer shields the roofing system from UV rays, weather damage, and general wear and tear. Reflective coatings can also help reduce heat absorption, keeping the building cooler in warmer climates. Choose a surfacing material that suits your building’s needs and enhance its longevity and durability. Proper application at this stage ensures your roof remains protected for years to come.

6. Conduct Final Inspections

Once all layers are in place, conduct a thorough inspection to ensure the roof has been installed correctly. This final check should be performed by professionals who can identify any issues such as improper layering, gaps, or misalignments that could compromise the roof’s performance. A successful inspection confirms that the roof is seamless, durable, and ready to provide long-term protection against the elements. This step is vital to ensuring the quality and reliability of the entire roofing system.

🏡 Built Up Roof

In conclusion, a built up roof offers unmatched durability, energy efficiency, and protection for your property, making it a smart investment for any homeowner. At Greentek Roofing, we take pride in delivering expert craftsmanship, customized solutions, and top-quality materials to ensure your roofing project is a success.

With our commitment to transparency and exceptional service, you can trust our team to handle your roofing needs with care and professionalism. Ready to upgrade to a reliable, high-performing roof? Contact Greentek Roofing today for a free consultation and let us help you protect your property for years to come!