Why You Should Have a Built-Up Roof

Class A roofing systems are the most fire-resistant, followed by Class B, and lastly, Class C. Roofing materials determine a roof's fire resistance. Built-up roofing, specifically with gravel or ballasted membrane, achieves a Class A rating.

The rating doesn't mean that the roof is indestructible if exposed to fire. However, the roof is likely to survive long enough to give you the chance to put out the fire.

All roofs eventually wear out and require replacement, but extreme weather elements increase the wear and tear. Fortunately, built-up roofs resist weather damage better than other roofing systems. Built-up roofing resists weather damage because:

• Its top surface reflects considerable heat, especially if you paint it with a light or reflective surface
• Its multiple layers reduce the risk of leaks
• Its strength reduces the risk of impact damage, for example, from hail

The high-weather resistance is necessary for areas that experience extreme weather.

A built-up comprises multiple layers, and the layers contribute to the roof's strength. Some of the layers include:

• A deck surface
• A base sheet, for example, fiberglass
• Felt
• Bitumen
• A surface material, such as gravel

The strength means a built-up roof can survive foot-traffic better than other roofing systems.

The roof is part of your house's envelope, which affects its energy efficiency. A good building envelope should resist heat loss during the winter and heat gain during the summer. Built-up roofing achieves good energy efficiency since:

• You can make the surface reflective to reduce the amount of heat that penetrates into the house
• The multiple layers of the roof improve insulation and prevent heat transfer
• The natural rocks are resistant to UV (ultraviolet) rays
• The low risk of leakage means you don't have to worry about energy loss through holes in the roof

With high-energy efficiency, you will enjoy reduced energy bills, as well as comfortable temperatures all year round.

A built-up roof is relatively easy to maintain – you won't spend much time or resources maintaining it. The ease of maintenance is possible because a built-up roof:

• Is strong
• Doesn't suffer damage easily
• Has a few individual parts (that reduces the number of parts that can suffer damage)
• Doesn't leak easily

Since these roofs don't suffer much damage in their lifetime, they also last a long time. You can expect 30 years of service or more from your built-up roof.

If your built-up roof does suffer damage, it will be relatively easy to repair. For one, built-up roofs are flat, which makes them safe and easy to operate on. Secondly, common problems with built-up roofing involve simple issues, such as blisters and ripples. Their repairs typically involve patching or replacing the damaged sections.

Lastly, you can also make your built-up roof beautiful and improve your curb appeal. For one, multiple finishes are possible on these roofs. You can make the top surface shiny or rough. You also get to choose from multiple colors. Talk to your roofing contractor about the specific aesthetics you expect since it's a subjective quality.

An experienced roofing contractor will take you through the different roofing designs suitable for your house's design. Take your time and consider the various options to make an informed choice. Alpha Roofing Services has decades of experience with commercial and residential roofs. Contact us so that we can discuss your roofing needs and offer you a professional solution.