What is a Modified Bitumen Roof?

What is modified bitumen roofing?

Modified bitumen roofing is manufactured with a combination of asphalt and polymerized rubber. Then fiberglass is added for reinforcement, resulting in a durable, flexible, rugged, waterproof roofing membrane. 

 Modified bitumen roofing is often referred to as BUR roofing’s cousin! With over 100 years of existence, BUR (built-up roofing) has a strong reputation as the ideal roofing for commercial structures. 

What is the life expectancy of a modified bitumen roof?

Modified bitumen roofs have many benefits that attract the attention of commercial and residential structure owners. One of the biggest benefits is a lifespan of up to 20 years. With this in mind, you may wonder what contributes to this lifespan. The other many benefits that modified bitumen roofing offers include: 

• Durability: A modified bitumen roof withstands the environment and weather, it stands up to foot traffic and debris and is tear-resistant. The tensile strength of this roofing material is part of what contributes to a lifespan of 20 years or longer.
• Waterproof: Modified bitumen roofing is top of the line when it comes to being waterproof, thanks to the multiple layers during installation.  This is another factor that contributes to the long lifespan.
• Energy Efficient: Modified bitumen roofing has options that can increase UV protection, ideal for areas where the sun is out more year-round than it isn’t, allowing strong UV rays to weaken most roofing materials. Modified bitumen roofs will maintain a lower temperature inside your commercial structure which helps keep the energy bills lower and extends the lifespan of the HVAC system. 
• Minimal Maintenance: A modified bitumen roof doesn’t tear easily, but when it does, the repairs are easy, leaks are easily repaired, and there are minimal maintenance requirements. 

What type of maintenance does a modified bitumen roof need? 

Modified bitumen roofing is ideal for a flat or low-slope roof. Monthly inspections are recommended to check for any loose flashing or deteriorated sealant. These can be easily repaired by the maintenance crew or by calling a professional commercial roofing contractor. 

The only other maintenance is an annual cleaning to remove any debris, dirt, or other materials that have accumulated on the roof. This can be done using a soft-bristled brush and a mild detergent. A power washer should never be used to clean a modified bitumen roof.

What are the disadvantages and problems with a modified bitumen roof?

Yes, modified bitumen roofing has gained popularity and keeps becoming a commonly requested material. But some disadvantages should be considered before signing a contract: 

• Absorbs heat from the UV rays. This contributes to heat island concerns by keeping the roof surface warm. This is not the roofing needed in areas that have more summer weather than winter.
• Tends to allow water to pool which becomes stagnant as it stands. That standing causes it to degrade leading to deterioration of the roof, shortening the lifespan by half. 

How is modified bitumen roofing repaired?

Because modified bitumen roofing is a layered roofing, repairs can be easy, or they can be a nightmare. It all depends on the level of damage needing repair. Because it is originally installed in layers, if the damage is down to the original roof surface, new layers can be added and blended in with the existing. The key to having a modified bitumen roof repair done properly is to have it done by a professional commercial roofing contractor. 

How is a modified bitumen roof installed?

There are four methods for installing a modified bitumen roof. Those 4 methods are: 

1. Hot tar
2. Cold tar
3. Torched
4. Self-adhered

Each of these methods requires expertise and proper equipment for a modified bitumen roof installation. While the owner can choose how many layers are installed, the minimum is two layers to have any guarantee of weather protection. 

Is there another name for modified bitumen roofing?

Modified bitumen roofing is sometimes referred to as “mod-bit”.  for short. How can you tell the difference between rolled roofing and modified bitumen? Simply look for seams!  An asphalt rolled roofing material will have the seams coated with plastic roof cement, some of which will squeeze out. 

Staying On Top

As we mentioned earlier, no matter what type of roofing material you have on your commercial structure, monthly inspections should be done by your maintenance team. And annual inspections by a professional roofing contractor. This will allow the opportunity to find any problems with your modified bitumen roof and other types of roofing materials.  Then repairs can be done before the small issues become expensive, larger problems. Would you like to discuss a modified bitumen roof in Jasper, GA? If so, call us now at 706-301-8630.