Wednesday, April 24, 2024
HomeNewsWhat Is A Modified Roof

What Is A Modified Roof

The Framework For Modified Bitumen Roofing Systems Is A Five

Modified Bitumen Roofing Systems
  • Insulation Used to provide R value, or thermal resistance, for temperature stability of the roof system
  • Modified Base Sheets or Plies
  • Modified Bitumen Membranes Factory fabricated sheet membrane composed of co-polymer reinforced with polyester or fiberglass
  • Adhesive Waterproofing material with a bonding agent applied either hot or cold
  • Surfacing Provides UV protection and weathering resistance

Sbs Modified Bitumen Vs App Modified Bitumen

SBS modified bitumen roofing and APP modified bitumen are two very similar roofing materials. Both roofing materials are bitumen membrane roofing sheets made out of asphalt. However, the difference lies in the way the materials are modified.

Manufacturers make APP modified bitumen by adding plastic. In order to make SBS modified bitumen, they use rubber. Both roofing materials possess greater flexibility than traditional BUR roofing systems, but SBS is the more flexible choice of the two. Regardless of which roofing option you go with, make sure you purchase your modified bitumen roofing material from a trustworthy manufacturer to ensure your sheets are consistent in quality and thickness.

The Most Common Application Methods Are Still Higher Risk Than Single

The most common modified bitumen adhesion method is torch down. This means using a propane-fueled, high BTU roofing torch to heat the back of the membrane and adhere it to the substrate. The industry has moved away from high-heat application methods over the past 3 decades. The old school tar kettle is a rare site these days. As a result of the inherent risks with high heat application, roofers should be CERTA trained and highly skilled in working with modified bitumen systems.

Don’t Miss: Proper Screw Placement Metal Roofing

What Is Epdm Roofing And How Long Does It Last

The average service life of an EPDM roof reaches 50 years. Impressive, right?

If this is the first time youve heard about EPDM, its a rubber membrane roof that stands for ethylene propylene diene monomer. As a common material in the commercial roofing industry, EPDM membrane roof lifespan reaches 50 years. It has existed for more than half a century.

Here are some more interesting facts about EPDM roofing:

  • This rubber roofing membrane comes in two colors black and white.
  • The automotive industry is known to be the largest market for EPDM aside from roofing.
  • Its proven to resist weathering and other effects of environmental agents.
  • In the past, asphalt was the preferred roofing material. EPDM replaced asphalt when it was introduced.
  • Because EPDM roofs are installed in one piece, they rarely leak.

Modified Bitumen Roofing & Aluminum Coating

Global Roofing Group

A modified bitumen roofing system is popularly used on roofs in Chicago because of its superior quality and ability to withstand the harsh climate. Modified bitumen is a roofing asphalt that is used for flat roofs it has many layered sheets of fiberglass or polyester that are combined with asphalt for a durable high-strength flat roof. Its one of the most common low-slope roofing systems. Not to be confused with similar materials like asphalt roll roofing, EPDM, or TPO, modified bitumen combines hot asphalt with plastic and rubber additives. It is the top choice due to its waterproofing feature. A bituminous roof is used to build water & vapor-proof. The flexibility and protection are why its so widely used. But in the city, you cant have modified bitumen membrane roofs without a coating.

DID YOU KNOW? The city of Chicago requires that modified bitumen membrane roofs be aluminum coated to be in compliance. The cost for this service runs between $1.00 $1.50 per square feet.

Roofing by Hernandez has many years of experience with this type of roof installation. We are also available to perform maintenance, patchwork caulking where its needed before coating the roofs.

These are a few typical aluminum coatings that are commonly used.

The Lucas brand is the one we use most often. They specialize in coatings and mastics for the roofing trade.

Please call Roofing by Hernandez today for your free consultation on a modified bitumen roofing system and/ or aluminum coating.

Don’t Miss: How Many Screws Per Sheet Of Metal Roofing

Highly Durable In High Traffic Areas

If your low slope roof gets a lot of traffic, modified bitumen should be on your short list of membranes. Because it is a more traditional roof membrane applied in multiple layers, it stands up to foot traffic very well. While no roof membrane should serve as a patio or a work platform, the reality is people often treat flat roofs like a deck. With a granulated cap sheet, modified has a better chance of standing up to foot traffic than other systems.

What Is A Sbs Roofing System

May 28, 2021

When it comes to commercial and industrial roofing, the industry is continually changing. Roofing materials are more diverse than ever, still, bituminous roofing membranes remain a popular choice. There is one among the market that has proven to be especially popular: SBS roofing systems.

In this article, we have outlined some general information about a roofing system commonly used in commercial and industrial roofing. Using the information provided, we hope to help you find out how an SBS roof can benefit your property. Heres what you need to know about SBS roofing systems.

Read Also: How Many Screws Per Square For Metal Roofing

What Makes Bitumen Roofing Special

Modified bitumen roofs co-polymer roofing membranes help it withstand high and low temperatures, making it a robust commercial roofing system. Besides, it is a low-maintenance roofing system, so basic care and maintenance are sufficient to keep the roof in its best working condition. A modified bitumen roofing system is also versatile, as more polymer sheets can be added to enhance their elemental and physical durability.

Enhancing Longevity And Performance

The True Total Value of a Modified Bitumen Roof System

One way to enhance the performance and longevity of a low slope roofing system is by applying a modified bitumen roofing membrane. Modified bitumen is asphalt treated to become safer in application and more pliable in use.

A high-performance solution for commercial applications, low slope modified bitumen roofing membranes improve ease of application, increase safety and often promote a cleaner work environment.

Such membranes, developed in Europe in the 1960s and put to use in the U.S. since the 1970s, are influenced by one of two additive types: the APP and the SBS .

Read Also: How Much Weight Can An Old Mobile Home Roof Hold

How Modified Bitumen Is Made

Mod bit is produced by blending raw asphalt with polymeric additives which increase the durability, strength, and flexibility of the asphalt.

Modified bitumen maintains a more uniform strength and flexibility over a wider range of temperatures compared to the unmodified asphalt used in built-up roofs.

Modified bitumen roofing is manufactured in sheets, with layers of modified asphalt over a reinforcement fabric. The reinforcement fabric is made from either fiberglass or polyester, or a combination of the two.

The finished mod bit sheets are typically 39 inches wide and sold in rolls. The rolls are typically between 25 feet and 33 feet long.

Modified Bitumen Roof With Gravel

Many customers ask why gravel is used on roofs. The answer is simple but nuanced. The first thing that gravel does for a roof is it protects the underlying layer of roofing materials. The second thing that gravel does for a roof is it weighs down or secures the roofing material. Particularly with single-ply roofs, making sure the roofing material is secure, it important.

You May Like: Skylight On Metal Roof

Factors To Consider Before Installing Modified Bitumen Roof Systems

Tools Required

Certain tools are required to install self-adhered modified bitumen roofing systems, such as:

  • A caulk gun to apply adhesives
  • A weighted roller to press the membrane in place
  • A seam probing tool to inspect gaps
  • Appropriate trowel to apply adhesive to flashing details instead of a hot air welder

Also, when priming a long-handled roller in cold weather, use a hot air welder instead of a trowel, unless instructed otherwise by the manufacturers guidelines.

What Is Modified Bitumen

Roofing Systems

Modified Bitumen was developed in Europe during the 1960s, and it is a rendition of the old built-up roofing system. Modified Bitumen flat roofing is a single-ply system made of asphalt bitumen, modified with polymers, and reinforced with fiberglass and/or polyester.

It is assembled in a unique permutation of layers that compound to increase the roofs effectiveness. Its this permutation of materials that gives Modified Bitumen competitive advantages that few other roofing systems can match.

You May Like: Skylight Installation Metal Roof

What Is Modified Bitumen’s Framework

The Modified Bitumen membrane has five layers of construction to give it the same durability and resistance as a BUR multi-ply roof. This system consists of asphalt bitumen, modified polymers, and polyester or fiberglass reinforcements permeated together to create a waterproof barrier that can resist harsh weather, fire, debris, and foot traffic.

The layers of a single-ply Modified Bitumen roofing system start with the structural deck covered with a vapor barrier layer that adds waterproofing.

A layer of insulation goes next to provide R-value , topped with a layer of adhesive. The top layer is the modified bitumen membrane with a pressure-sensitive SecurTape strip for additional hold.

Additional layers stacked on top of each other made of asphalt and Modified Bitumen membranes can make the roof thicker and more durable.

Modified Bitumen By Roof Effex Inc

Modified bitumen is a stellar choice for a flat roofing system. It offers strength, resilience, and exceptional value for the money. To make the most of it, be sure to choose Roof Effex Inc. as your contractor.

We boast years of experience as modified bitumen specialists. That experience never leaves our sight. It informs our practices as a business and our work process as roofers. Its what lets us work fast, work smart, and work efficiently, driving down costs while ensuring consistently high results.

When you choose us to install your MB roof, you can feel confident youve chosen right. You can feel confident knowing you have a team of experienced professionals working on your behalf. You can feel confident that youve hired the best in the business.

Don’t Miss: Roofing Costs In California

What Is A Flat Roof The Proper Terminology Is Low

A Flat Roof is actually called a low sloped roof. That is a roof with a pitch that is a minimum 1/4 inch per ft and commonly used on structures with low sloped roof designs or porches and patios. For roof slopes that are truly flat or dont meet the minimum 1/4 inch per ft pitch, a tapered system design would be required to create the 1/4 inch per ft minimum to ensure properly water drainage off the roof.

What Types Of Installations Are Available For Modified Bitumen

Top 3 Rubber Flat Roofs: TPO, EPDM Rubber, and Modified Bitumen. Which is the best?

There are 3 types of installations, a torch applied product, a self-adhered product and a liquid-style adhesive . In both cases a base sheet is mechanically attached to the roof deck with nails. With the torch applied product a propane fired torch is then used to melt the membrane to the base sheet. With the self-adhered product there is a factory applied adhesive with a slip sheet attached, which is removed, and the membrane is adhered to the base sheet.

You May Like: How To Tell If Your Roof Is Leaking

App Vs Sbs Modified Bitumen

Compared to SBS-modified bitumen , the APP-modified bitumen membrane has a much higher melting point. APP also is much more UV-resistant, making it much less likely to crack or damage than SBS. Because of this, APP is the best option for flat roofs in dry and hot climates, such as Southern California.

What Is A Five

The framework for a Modified Bitumen Roof is a five-layer combination of roofing components that make up the roof membrane.

  • Insulation – Used to provide “R” value, or thermal resistance, for temperature stability of the roof system.

  • Modified Base Sheets or Plies

  • Modified Bitumen Membranes – Factory fabricated sheet membrane composed of co-polymer reinforced with polyester or fiberglass

  • Adhesive – Waterproofing material with a bonding agent applied either hot or cold

  • Surfacing – Provides UV protection and weathering resistance

Read Also: Best Placement For Screws In Metal Roofing

Modified Bitumen By Leader Construction & Roofing Co

Modified bitumen is a stellar choice for a flat roofing system. It offers strength, resilience, and exceptional value for the money. To make the most of it, be sure to choose Leader Construction & Roofing Co as your contractor.

We boast years of experience as modified bitumen specialists. That experience never leaves our sight. It informs our practices as a business and our work process as roofers. Its what lets us work fast, work smart, and work efficiently, driving down costs while ensuring consistently high results.

When you choose us to install your MB roof, you can feel confident youve chosen right. You can feel confident knowing you have a team of experienced professionals working on your behalf. You can feel confident that youve hired the best in the business.

Surfacing For Modified Bitumen Roofing

Modified Bitumen Roof Life FAQs on defects &  life of ...

Unprotected asphalt is highly vulnerable to the suns UV rays. The UV radiation breaks down the long-chain hydrocarbon molecules that give asphalt its strength and durability. This is an issue common to all asphalt-based roofing materials.

In order for asphalt-based roofing to perform for an acceptable length of time, they have to be protected from the sun. This is why asphalt shingles are covered with ceramic-coated mineral granules, and its the main reason why built-up roofs have gravel surfacing.

There are three main types of surfacing for the cap sheet of mod bit roof systems:

Recommended Reading: How Much Shingle Roof Cost

Bitumen Roof Advantages And Disadvantages

One of the longer lasting roofing options for flat roofs is bitumen roofing or a modified bitumen roof. Modified bitumen is a type of asphalt product that can be applied in a number of ways to the roof in both hot and cold temperatures. Modified bitumen roofs have a lot of advantages over other types of membrane roofing, and are often seen as the modern alternative to the built up roof.

Residential & Commercial Roofing, Siding, Gutters, Windows and Doors.

Pros Of Modified Bitumen

A few different benefits make people want to choose a modified bitumen roof over other suitable low-slope or flat roof materials.

Perhaps the most significant benefit is the low maintenance. Once you install an Modified Bitumen roof, there’s little upkeep besides annual inspections to check for damages. Repairs for this type of roof are also easy and inexpensive when addressed early enough to prevent significant problems.

Another benefit is that modified bitumen can withstand extreme weather temperatures, whether high or low, without cracking or breaking.

And bitumen is a waterproof material, making it perfect for roofs in climates with a lot of rain, given that your roofing contractor installs proper drainage. Flat and low pitched roofs need special consideration to ensure water doesn’t pool up on the surface, causing additional weight strain.

Don’t Miss: How Often Should You Get Your Roof Replaced

Identification Of Modified Bitumen

Just because a roof is classified as a flat roof, that is, a roof with a slope of less the 2:12, does not mean it is a modified bitumen roof. .

To properly identify a modified bitumen roof, you can look at the featured image of this post or the pictures below. But, in further detail, a modified bitumen roof is an asphalt material that is rolled on. Typically, the sheets are about two to three feet in width.

The membrane roofing material typically seals using special adhesives or a hot mop which is basically a tar and flame.

Modified Bitumen Roofings 5 Layer System

Converting a Flat Modified Roof System into a Tapered ISO-Board System and Seamless Metal Roof

Modified bitumen roof systems framework features a five-layer combination of roofing components. These are:

  • Insulation Provides an R value for stabilizing the roofs temperature
  • Adhesive This can be hot or cold adhesive made of a bonding agent and waterproofing material
  • Modified Bitumen Membranes Made of co-polymer with fiberglass or polyester reinforcements
  • Surfacing Protects against weather-related damages and UV rays
  • Modified Base Sheets or Piles Waterproof layers that make up the foundation for flat roofs
  • Read Also: Roof Replacement Cost In California

    What Are Common Uses Of Modified Bitumen

    While these membrane can be applied to higher sloped roofs, these are typically installed on low sloped roofs. That is a roof with a pitch that is a minimum 1/4 inch per ft. This type of roof is common for all types of houses and buildings and are often integrated into even tile and shingle roof systems for at least part of the building.

    What Is Modified Bitumen Roof

    Modified bitumen roof is one of the many materials for roofing using widely in the USA and Canada. This material stands much better under certain climate conditions. But what is it, and why should we know about this material?

    In this article, we will discuss this specific roofing material and other things related to the material you need to know.

    Read Also: Metal Roofing Screw Pattern

    Benefits Of Modified Bitumen Roofing:

    • Polymer modification to asphalts result in greater elongation and the ability to accommodate building movement
    • Ability to manufacture rolls in plants, providing better quality control and quality assurance
    • Versatile application options: hot asphalts, cold adhesives or hot air
    • A variety of modified type and millage are available to better provide resistance against foot traffic and common rooftop abuse when needed
    • Modified Bitumen Roofing Warranties are available in 25-, 20-, 15-, 12-, and 10-year options
    • Low installation costs
    • Modified bitumen roofing can also assist in lowering your buildings use of energy a major concern during the summer heat of South Florida
    • A good choice if you want a material that can be installed without disrupting the day-to-day activities of your business
    • Used on low slope and flat roofs
    • Lightweight, roofing material weighs approximately 2 lbs. per square foot
    • Durable, high tensile strength, resists splits and tears
    • High resistance to roof-top traffic
    • Easily maintained, can be coated with elastomeric or aluminum paint to reflect UV rays and South Floridas hot weather conditions

    RELATED ARTICLES

    Most Popular