Built-Up Roofing (BUR) Systems in PA, NJ, DE, & MD

Built-Up Roofing by GSM Roofing: Time-Tested and Durable

When Fred Gooding started his roofing business in 1946, there was only one choice for low-slope roofs: the built-up roofing (BUR) system. Today, BURs can be cold-applied or hot-mopped, smooth-coated or gravel-surfaced, modified or traditional bitumen.

Our commercial roofing experts are ready to partner with you to install this durable and time-tested roofing system.

What to Expect When You Choose Built-Up Roofing for Your Commercial Structure

Built-up commercial roofing in Eastern PA, NJ, DE, & MD

Once called asphalt roofs, the construction of built-up roofs involves a layering process using bitumen (made from asphalt, coal tar, or cold adhesive) and reinforced fabric. Roofers have used these versatile membrane systems for decades on low-slope and flat roofs.

The first applied layer is the bitumen. It’s then topped with fabric, felt, or fiberglass from a roll. These layers are repeated based on the project. The completed roof often has a surface aggregate (for aesthetics and longevity) and an optional reflective coating (for energy savings).

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The Built-Up Roof System’s Best Features, and a Few Challenges

The best feature of a built-up roofing system is redundancy. This roof type is “built up” with several layers—each one offering protection if the layer above it becomes damaged. Although built-up roof membranes aren’t as popular today as they once were, they still provide a viable option for new construction and roof replacements.

As we mentioned earlier, this system for flat roofs was more popular in the 1970s, but it’s still around today because it’s rugged, dependable, and long-lasting. This commercial roof is water-resistant, protectant against UV rays, fire-resistant, resilient against wind and rain, and low-maintenance (requiring only one to two annual inspections).

A built-up roof might be the best option if your operation cannot tolerate a roof leak. That includes food manufacturers, museums, and buildings containing high-value items.

At GSM Roofing, we’re here to help you weigh the pros and cons of built-up roof membranes. Get in touch with us today so we can talk about cost, longevity, maintenance, installation, repairs, and more!

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Built-up roof systems for commercial flat roofs

Let’s See if Built-Up Roofing is the Right Choice for Your Commercial Building

Built-up roofing for commercial low-slope roof

If you’re looking for a proven, low-maintenance option for your commercial low-slope roof, you might want to consider built-up roofing. Our commercial roofing experts are ready to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this type of roofing, your needs and expectations, and other options that may work even better than a built-up roof system.

Not only will we install or repair your built-up roof the right way, but we will also use our eight decades of experience with roofing membranes to prescribe the best, most economical commercial roofing solutions for your commercial structure.

Reach out to our roofing specialists today!

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