Save With Modified Bitumen Roofing - Or Lose

Flat roofing is a very efficient use of construction materials and allows for efficient usage of the space underneath. However, it has always had a weakness, that of leakage and as membranes become more common to protect the flat roof, Modified bitumen evolved and become one of the more favored roofing membranes. The concern is to select from roofing systems that use a high quality long lasting bitumen and roofing materials.

At one time mopped asphalt covered with gravel was in use as a one of the most economical flat roofing systems however, this could have some drawbacks and require frequent maintenance in order to replace gravel blown away and washed away. Asphalt aged poorly becoming brittle and subject to leaks, so roofing systems have used modified asphalt materials with increased flexibility and durability as well as aging characteristics.

Roofing manufacturers are not all created equally and some overseas manufactured roofing may not meet standards for safety, durability and fire resistance used in the US.

Budgetary considerations often dominate renovations, additions and new construction and often when adding a flat roof, which is economical, the homeowner should be guided by the contractor as well as their budgetary needs in their choice of modified bitumen roofing material.

Not only must the appropriate roofing membrane be used for the purpose but also the appropriate coating used beneath and above it to extend the life of the roofing materials.

Repair of flat roofs will often include removal of the aged and leaking materials, drying of the surface beneath is since any moisture can remain and rot the wood or structure beneath the roof. Then the roofing membrane can be patched and sealed. At every step care must be taken not only to seamlessly repair the roofing membrane but check the base structure beneath it and thoroughly dry out any areas which have sustained leakage or water damage.

If not properly cared for, a flat roof can sustain substantial damage that will not show until possibly more serious issues occur such as water spots on interior walls and drywall damage.

Modified bitumen roofing materials were created for economy, longevity, and they do both jobs admirably but only if the appropriate grade is selected for the job to be done.