Modified Bitumen

Designed for flat or low-sloped applications, the modified bitumen roofing system has a long, proven track record. It is asphalt-based and has multiple layers of composite materials to increase flexibility and durability. Modified Bitumen roof systems typically consist of one, two, or three ply systems. The type of substrate will often determine the type of system being installed.

Modified membranes can also be installed in conjunction with built-up roof (BUR) materials (such as multiple plies of fiberglass felt) to form a "hybrid" roof system. It comes in factory-manufactured rolls and surfacing for these rolled materials consist of a smooth surface, or mineral granules, aluminum, copper, or an aggregate such as gravel or slag that is set it hot asphalt.

It may be installed by the torch-application method, or "hot-mopped" like Built-up roofing (BUR), or applied with "cold-process" adhesives. The latest innovation with Modified Bitumen is the self-adhering sheet. This method eliminates the risks associated with the use of torches, hot asphalt, and is completely free of VOC (volatile organic chemicals) fumes during and after application. Modified Bitumen is a viable option when considering a low-sloped roof replacement.

Modified bitumen or MB roofing systems are one of the more modern styles of commercial roofing systems, with a lifespan of 20 years and up. As bitumen seams are mechanically attached together, it is nearly impossible for the elements of nature to break through, proving to be highly wind, fire, rain, and hail resistant. Modified bitumen membranes are also one of the highest rated fire resistant forms of roofing as well. The steepest drawback to bitumen roofing systems is the black color that tends to lead to heat retention, and also has a high risk of standing water build up.The drawbacks being said, if built correctly, most if not all of these issues can be avoided.

Modified bitumen has high tensile strength, a long lasting lifespan, and is one of the most flame resistant roofing materials on the market. Modified bitumen membranes can be used solely on their own for roofing purposes, or can be found in built-up commercial roofing systems. A roofing contractor can lay modified bitumen in almost any climate, be it hot or cold, as it is an incredibly versatile substance.

Though layers of modified bitumen can be applied as the primary roofing substance, there are still a handful of other materials that can go into the flat roofing system. Some of the most commonly found materials used in a bitumen roofing system include hot asphalt, cap sheets, granule, sealant, base sheets, cement, primer, and other binding agents to create a fully adhered roofing system, guaranteeing a high level of protection. Whether you are looking to use modified bitumen for a flat roof, or low sloping roof, you can rest assured knowing that you have a durable roofing system.

By using either hot asphalt or a cool roof system depending on your location, you can expect anywhere from a 15 to 20 year life expectancy from this commercial roofing system. Built-up roofing systems, also referred to as BUR systems, have a 100 year life span, and use layers bitumen in their design due to its high tensile strength.

One of the major benefits of modified bitumen is that it is easy to self adhere to your roofing subsystem, though professional help is heavily recommended for the application method. The first step is to prepare the roofing surface, followed by applying roofing material such as felt. Applying primer to prepare the surface for the bitumen comes third in line, at which point a roofing contractor will then heat the laid out bitumen and sealant with a torch in order to fully adhere the roofing material to the building.

As modified bitumen roofing systems offer varying degrees of customization, the cost can fluctuate depending on the exact materials used. For an exact cost of bitumen roofing in regards to your building, please give our roofing contractors a call for a free estimate today.

Modified bitumen roofing, as mentioned, comes with so many advantages over many other forms of commercial roofing systems. As it has so many varying levels of customization and materials, the roofing system can be used in both hot and cold climates, has a long lifespan, and offers strong protection against rain, wind, snow, and the like. Most impressively, modified bitumen roofing systems have one of the highest ratings in term of fire resistance, protecting a building's inhabitants from some of the harshest of natural disasters.

There are only two types of modified bitumen roofing systems, named SBS and APP. The difference between the two lies primarily in the way the roofing types are applied. SBS modified bitumen is typically self adhered with an adhesive backing on hot asphalt, while APP modified bitumen is applied using a torch or heat welded. In addition to the key application differences, APP bitumen adds more of a plastic like quality to asphalt while SBS adds a more rubber like quality.

Modified bitumen roofing systems typically last 15 to 20 years, however as with anything, circumstances may make maintenance and repairs a necessity. Hiring a reputable commercial roofing company to carry out the repairs is a necessity in protecting the modified bitumen roofing system, in order to mitigate the risk of having to completely replace the commercial roofing system. When you have experienced damage to your modified bitumen membranes, a roof inspection is necessary to determine the cause and location of the damage. In many occasions, it is not always visible, and requires an in depth investigation to pinpoint, and subsequently devise a solution to the damage. Our roofing contractors will be more than happy to offer you a free estimate on the most economical and long term commercial roofing repair for commercial roof.

As mentioned above, modified bitumen roofs are typically built and designed to withstand the harshest of conditions, occasionally maintenance, repair, or re-roofing will be required. The easiest way to repair damage to modified bitumen roofing is to have a roofing contractor removed the damaged components of the roof and replace with new layers of modified bitumen. Thankfully, this can be done exclusively to the damaged areas, providing significant savings over other roofing systems that can require the entire roof to be replaced.

There are numerous advantages to modified bitumen roofing systems for building owners. Modified bitumen roofs are by far one of the strongest systems of modern times. This system offers a wide variety in terms of materials and applications, making them a versatile choice no matter the elements or conditions your building will face. With modified bitumen roofing systems, you can rest assured knowing that your building is well protected, and will stand the test of time. For a completely free, no obligation estimate to lay modified bitumen membrane roofing on your building, call our roofing contractors today.