Asphaltic Low-Slope Roofing

For commercial buildings, asphaltic low-slope roofing provides the highest
level of quality, affordability and reliability on the market. Most commercial
facilities use low-slope roofing because it is cost-efficient, maximizes usable
space and can be designed to feature value-adding amenities such as HVAC
equipment or a roof garden.
Though a flat roof may appear
level, it actually must have a
slight slope so that water can
run off the surface. Asphaltic
low-slope roofing is the
strongest option for
waterproofing because its
redundancies and reliability
provide added support and
protection for a building
which water cannot
penetrate.
There are two types of asphaltic low slope roofing. Built-up Roofing (BUR) and Modified
Bitumen (MB).
BUR is “built-up” of alternating layers of heavy roofing felt and hot mopped or coldapplied asphalt. The surface is finished with a mineral or gravel covering and a special
coating, which safeguards it from the sun and adds fire resistance. Recent installation
advances have included peel-and-stick self-adhesive products and low-fuming asphalt
formulations.
The redundancy of
BUR systems make
them ideal for
hosting overburdens
such as solar panel
installations.
MB systems are referred to as being ‘modified’ because the asphalt has been blended with
polymers—usually either atactic polypropylene (APP) or styrene butadiene styrene
(SBS)—to improve the product’s strength, flexibility and resistance to solar radiation. MB
provides the features of a built-up roof with the added tensile strength and elongation of a
modified bitumen cap sheet, as well as the quality assurance of in-plant membrane
fabrication uniformity and control, and reduced labor requirements for installation.
MB systems
provide added
strength and are
affordable &
reliable to install.
Asphalt low-slope roofing has a number of beneficial attributes which make it
an asset to building owners and facility managers.
Performance:
• Multi-layer protection, redundancy reduces chance of leaks
• Thermal performance
• Fire and uplift performance
• Seals concrete decks
• Versatile; suited to all types of roof decks
• Today’s formulas resist weathering
• Adaptable to meet any penetration or flashing detail
• Most cost-effective choice for commercial structures
Maintenance:
• Withstands high-foot traffic
• Existing systems can be easily repaired by a roofing professional
Availability:
• Easy to find contractors to install
• Versatile systems and products
Price:
• Inexpensive over entire life cycle
• “Best bang for the buck”
• Versatile options – choose the right system for your budget
Enviro-Friendly:
• Existing systems can be modified to become “cool” and energy efficient
• Existing structures can be modified to accommodate “green” vegetative roofing
• New industry advances embracing sustainability of product
• Materials may be recycled
Attributes Continued…
Asphalt roofing is a system above the rest…
Low-slope roofs on industrial and institutional buildings share many common
challenges:
• The low-slope of the roof affects its ability to shed water
• High-foot traffic when servicing equipment can cause wear and tear
• Multiple penetrations could affect the waterproofing system
In all of these cases, asphalt roofing offers the solution!