Modified Bitumen Roofs vs Tar and Gravel: A Comparison

Commercial properties need the best low-slope roofing materials to withstand the daily challenges of the elements. With so many products in the market, most property owners will choose one that can last the longest as an excellent investment. All roofing materials can offer this particular perk, but the most affordable ones are modified bitumen roofs and tar and gravel or built-up roofing (BUR).

According to experienced and knowledgeable Corpus Christi TX roofing contractors, modified bitumen is the successor to traditional tar and gravel roofs. In fact, it is better because of its asphalt components and welding requirements that guarantee a thorough seal on commercial roofs. However, tar and gravel still has some of its compelling features that make it a hit with many. To differentiate the two, Inspectapedia has a great description on each material.

The Differences Between Modified Bitumen Roofs and BUR

Modified bitumen is a membrane roof, often coated with mineral granules (tiny fragments less than 1/16" in size) that is put down cold and glued or put down by using a torch to heat overlapping seams; You will see a continuous and fairly smooth surface and the individual courses of material will be about 36-39" apart. Except for the overlap at seams, a modified bitumen roof is a single membrane in thickness over the roof surface.

You will never see actual gravel (chunks of rock say 3/16" to 1/4" in size) on a modified bitumen roof.

A plain "tar and gravel roof" also referred to as a "built-up roof" or BUR is quite different from modified bitumen.

The tar and gravel roof is built-up of (typically) three to five layers of roofing felt. As each layer is applied and mopped down using hot tar between layers, we end up with not a single membrane but a multiple-ply membrane (3-5 plies).

The more plies that are used the longer will be the roof life and the more reliable will be the roof's performance against leaks. And since we're working with roofing felt, sold in 36" wide rolls, the width between the seams will always be smaller than a modified bitumen roof.  (Continued)

Modified bitumen roofs are the easiest material for commercial roofers in Corpus Christi TX to work with. Tar and gravel, while laborious, offers its own perks such as progressive improvements per maintenance or roofing inspection by your trusted contractor. You can find the perks of using modified bitumen roofs here.

Below, you'll find the advantages and disadvantages of using tar and gravel roofs courtesy of Crest Roofing's excellent understanding of the roofing material.

Advantages of tar and gravel roofs

Quick Installation

We find that it’s quicker to install than other types of roof systems.

Proven to last

There are roofs from the 70’s are still around. Roofs don’t last forever, and it’s a testament to their durability that they can still offer protection after almost 50 years.

Protection from UV rays

The gravel coating protects your roof from harmful UV rays, making your roof last a long time. The many surfaces on gravel also scatter light instead of absorbing it, which can keep your roof cooler in the summer.

Usually one of the least expensive flat roofing materials

This is one of the biggest draws of tar and gravel roofs. You get the most bang for your buck. It’s a durable, long-lasting roof system that costs less than synthetic membranes.

Extremely rugged

SBS systems are delicate compared to tar and gravel roofs. Wearing the wrong footwear causes wear, and if you’re not careful, you could end up putting holes in it! Tar and gravel is tough. It has multiple layers of rocks and bitumen, so it can stand up to foot traffic. (Continued)

You'll definitely want to know which is cheaper, modified bitumen roofs or tar and gravel roofs? Every year, roof prices change per square meter. If you're finalizing your roofing budget, it pays to know which one will yield lower costs.

However, keep in mind that sometimes the lower-priced roofing material may be inferior in quality if you compare it to the other. In contrast, it doesn't mean you paid highly that you'll receive high quality perks too. Below, you'll find Roofing Calculator's excellent cost estimates for both modified bitumen roofs and tar and gravel or BUR roofs.

The Cost of Installing Modified Bitumen Roofs and BUR

Modified Bitumen

Modified bitumen is installed in multiple layers, each of which is torched to the surface below at every ¼ turn of the roll. This is a very labor intensive process that absolutely must be performed by a professional. This type of roof does have cold-rolled technologies available now as well, but it involves a lot of application of roofing tar. Estimated costs are $3.00 to $6.00 per square foot installed.

Built Up Roof

Installation includes applying multiple layers of ply sheets that are bonded together using hot asphalt. The top layer can be a reflective coating for energy efficiency or gravel for added durability. Costs range from $5.00 to $8.00 per square foot installed. (Continued)

Property owners must always remember that all good roofing requires excellent roofers to maximize the roofing material's capability and stability. Therefore, working with exceptional roofers from Galvan Builders gives you that guarantee. Learn more about what we can do for you by calling today!I

See Full Artcile Here: Modified Bitumen Roofs vs Tar and Gravel: A Comparison

Galvan Builders Construction Company
4938 Williams Drive,
Corpus Christi TX 78411
361-857-4341
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