Built up Roof (BUR)
Hot tar roofing, also known as Built-Up Roofing (BUR), is a durable and low-maintenance roofing solution with over a century of history. The first BUR systems, developed around the early 1900s, utilized wood-burning kettles to heat tar, which adhered multiple layers of felt together. Typically consisting of four layers of felt combined with hot asphalt or tar, BUR creates a robust, weather-resistant surface, often topped with gravel or crushed stone for added protection and durability. Initially popular for commercial buildings due to its strength and longevity, BUR systems evolved from earlier flat roofing methods. Their reliability and ability to withstand harsh weather conditions contributed to their widespread adoption. Modern advancements have shifted from wood-burning kettles to more energy-efficient techniques, such as modified bitumen and reflective coatings, but the core principles of BUR remain unchanged. Key benefits of BUR systems include: Durability: Can withstand extreme weather when properly maintained. Puncture Resistance: Strong against punctures, ideal for areas with foot traffic or mechanical stresses. Heavy Foot Traffic: Their layered structure provides stability, suitable for commercial or industrial use. Energy Efficiency: Reflective coatings or white gravel can reduce heat absorption, lowering cooling costs. Overall, BUR continues to be a reliable choice for roofing solutions.
Modified Bitumen
Modified bitumen membranes originated in the late 1960s as a solution to the limitations of traditional built-up roofing systems, focusing on creating durable and weather-resistant flat roofing options. Components and Characteristics: These roofs consist of asphalt-based materials modified with polymers, such as atactic polypropylene (APP) or styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS). This modification enhances the membrane's elasticity, flexibility, and UV resistance. Benefits: 1.Durability: Survives extreme weather conditions, including high temperatures and heavy precipitation, with a longer lifespan than traditional asphalt roofing. 2.Flexibility: Polymers allow the membrane to expand and contract with temperature changes, minimizing crack risks. 3.Ease of Installation: Can be installed using various methods (torch-applied, cold adhesive, or self-adhering sheets), making it adaptable to different conditions. 4.Waterproofing: The layered structure provides a strong barrier against water infiltration, essential for flat roofs. 5.Low Maintenance: Requires less maintenance over time while maintaining integrity. 6.Energy Efficiency: Some products feature reflective coatings that help lower energy costs by keeping buildings cooler in warm weather. In conclusion, modified bitumen roofing systems merge traditional bitumen benefits with enhanced polymer properties, offering a reliable and long-lasting solution for flat and low-slope roofs, widely used in commercial applications for effective building protection.
EPDM (Rubber)
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) is a synthetic rubber roofing material favored for flat and low-slope roofs due to its durability and weather resistance. Initially developed in the 1960s for industrial applications, it gained popularity in commercial roofing throughout the 1970s and has since evolved with innovations in quality and efficiency. Key advantages include high durability, a lifespan of 20 to 30 years, ease of installation, low maintenance requirements, and cost-effectiveness.
TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin)
TPO roofing is a single-ply roofing membrane widely used for commercial roofing systems. It originated in the 1980s as an alternative to traditional roofing materials and quickly gained popularity due to its energy efficiency and ease of installation. TPO roofing is a viable option for many commercial roofing projects, but careful consideration of the specific materials and installation practices is critical to ensure the best performance and longevity.
Liquid Roofing
Liquid roof coatings are revolutionizing the way we protect and insulate our buildings. They represent the future of roofing technology. These innovative systems are applied in a liquid form, creating a seamless, durable, and waterproof barrier that adapts perfectly to the surfaces they cover. They're used on everything from flat rooftops to balconies and walkways, and have proven themselves on high-profile projects like airport terminals and museums. Their ease of application reduces installation time and disruption and they have energy-efficient and environmentally friendly attributes. Made from advanced materials like PMMA, silicone, and acrylic, these coatings are highly resistant to UV rays, chemicals, and the elements, and remain flexible even in low temperatures. However, they do require proper surface preparation and craftsmanship to maximize lifespan. Overall, liquid roof coatings offer a cost-effective, environmentally-conscious, and high-performance alternative to traditional roofing materials. As technology advances they will play an increasingly important role in sustainable building practices worldwide.
Insulation/Tapered
•Polyisocyanurate insulation, often called polyiso, is a type of rigid foam insulation used mainly on flat roofs, especially with tapered designs to ensure proper water drainage. It was developed in the mid-20th century to improve energy efficiency by providing an R-value (thermal resistance) in a compact thickness. Polyiso is a lightweight, rigid foam board made from a polyurethane-based foam core sandwiched between aluminum foil facers. It acts as a thermal barrier, reducing heat transfer through walls or roofs. Can be glued or mechanically fastened to roof decks and durable when dry. When it gets wet, polyiso can disintegrate and lose its insulating properties. Polyiso Needs a proper protective membrane or cap sheet to prevent water infiltration. Tapered polyiso is used to create a slope (pitch) on flat roofs. This slope directs rainwater toward drains, preventing water pooling. Water that doesn’t drain properly can cause leaks, damage, or structural problems.