For an Olympia roof, built-up roofing (BUR) creates a low-slope roof from multiple plies with asphalt between them; the surface may include protective gravel. It is a layered asphalt assembly, unlike a single-ply TPO, PVC or EPDM membrane.
A low-slope commercial roof where the selected built-up system is specified for the building and substrate. GAF publishes a built-up roofing system specification.
What changes the decision?
BUR uses several reinforcing plies with asphalt between layers rather than one membrane sheet.
A surfacing such as gravel may protect the finished assembly; the chosen specification defines the surface.
Compare assembly weight, existing substrate, drainage and project access with single-ply alternatives.
What is a built-up roof made of?
BUR uses multiple reinforcing plies with hot asphalt between them. A protective surface such as gravel may be added; the exact specification identifies the plies, insulation and surfacing.
How do I compare a built-up proposal with a membrane roof?
Compare complete assemblies, project requirements, attachment, insulation, drainage and written specifications. A system name alone does not reveal the scope.
Can built-up roofing be used as a recover?
Recover work depends on existing layers and the selected system specification. Document substrate condition and retained materials before approving the assembly.
Which built-up roofing options should the proposal identify?
Built-up system
A multi-ply asphalt roof with asphalt between reinforcing sheets; the specification identifies its surfacing and insulation.
Built-up recover
A recover requires an approved system for the existing roof and substrate. The scope should name the retained layers and conditions.
Hybrid built-up assembly
If the proposal combines systems, list each product and transition detail with the governing manufacturer documents.
More than the visible surface
A roof is a connected assembly.
The covering works with the layers beneath it and the details at every edge and opening.
Roof coveringThe selected material and its fastening or attachment system.
Water-shedding layersCompatible underlayment or membrane details, edges, valleys and flashings.
Roof deck & structureThe sound, prepared substrate that supports the selected system.
The building beneathVentilation, insulation and interior protection coordinated with the roof work.
Connect the roof and the home
Your project. One clear scope.
Bring roofing, adjoining exterior work and restoration into a project estimate that identifies the materials and the work around them.
