Materials
What is Built-Up Roof?
Roofing Glossary · Materials
Definition
A traditional flat or low-slope roofing system (BUR) consisting of multiple alternating layers of bitumen and reinforcing fabrics, capped with a mineral-surfaced cap sheet or gravel. Often called a "tar and gravel" roof, BUR systems are among the most proven in commercial roofing with documented lifespans of 15-30 years. They provide redundant waterproofing but have largely been replaced by single-ply membranes for new construction.
Related Roofing Terms
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Modified BitumenA factory-reinforced asphalt roofing membrane modified with APP (atactic polypropylene) or SBS (styr...
→TPOThermoplastic Polyolefin — a single-ply white or light-colored roofing membrane widely used on low-s...
→EPDMEthylene Propylene Diene Monomer — a synthetic rubber roofing membrane available in black or white, ...
→PondingThe accumulation of standing water on a flat or low-slope roof surface that remains for more than 48...
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