Commercial Built-Up Roofing Systems
Built-Up Roofing for Commercial Buildings
Built-up roofing (BUR), often referred to as tar and gravel roofing, is a traditional flat roofing system that has been used on commercial buildings for decades due to its durability, redundancy, and proven long-term performance. Commonly installed on flat and low-slope roofs, built-up roofing systems are well suited for commercial and industrial buildings that require reliable waterproofing and resistance to ongoing exposure. At Commercial Flat Roof Company, we work with built-up roofing systems as part of our comprehensive commercial roofing solutions, helping property owners manage system performance throughout the roof lifecycle.
About Commercial Built-Up Roofing Systems
Built-up roofing systems consist of multiple layers of bitumen alternated with reinforcing materials, creating a thick, durable roofing assembly. These layers are finished with a protective surface—such as gravel or a cap sheet—to enhance weather resistance and protect the underlying membrane from UV exposure and mechanical wear.
BUR systems are valued for:
- Redundant waterproofing through layered construction
- Strong resistance to punctures and mechanical damage
- Proven performance over long service lives
- Suitability for large commercial roof areas
Benefits of Commercial Built-Up Roofing
When properly installed and maintained, built-up roofing systems offer dependable protection for commercial properties.
Key benefits include:
- Multiple layers for enhanced leak protection
- Durable construction that performs well under regular foot traffic
- Long-term performance on flat commercial roofs
- A proven track record across commercial and industrial applications
Built-up roofing is often selected for buildings that prioritize durability, redundancy, and time-tested system performance.
Built-Up Roof Installation, Repair & Replacement
Commercial Flat Roof Company provides full lifecycle support for built-up roofing systems on commercial and industrial buildings. Our team evaluates roof conditions, structural considerations, and long-term performance goals to determine the most effective approach at each stage of the roof’s service life.
Built-Up Roof Installation
Built-up roofing systems are installed by applying multiple layers of bitumen and reinforcing materials to create a durable, redundant membrane assembly. Proper installation is essential to achieving consistent waterproofing, layer adhesion, and long-term resistance to weather and foot traffic.
Built-Up Roof Repairs
Over time, built-up roofs may require repairs due to surface wear, flashing deterioration, gravel displacement, or localized membrane damage. Timely repairs help restore waterproofing performance and prevent moisture intrusion from affecting insulation or interior spaces.
Built-Up Roof Replacement
When a built-up roofing system reaches the end of its service life or experiences widespread deterioration, full replacement may be necessary. We evaluate existing conditions and alternative roofing options to help property owners plan replacement with durability, performance, and long-term value in mind.
Is Built-Up Roofing Right for Your Commercial Property?
Built-up roofing systems are commonly used on warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and other commercial buildings with flat roof designs. System suitability depends on building use, structural considerations, maintenance expectations, and long-term performance goals. Our team provides professional evaluations to help determine whether built-up roofing is the most appropriate system—or if another roofing solution may better serve the property.
Schedule a Built-Up Roofing Evaluation
If your commercial building has an existing built-up roof or you are considering this system for a new project, a professional evaluation is the first step. Commercial Flat Roof Company offers expert assessments to guide installation, repair, or replacement decisions.
Contact us today to schedule a built-up roofing evaluation and receive clear recommendations tailored to your building.
