One of the most time-tested commercial roofing systems ever developed — and still one of the most reliable options available today.
Built-up roofing, commonly known as BUR, is one of the oldest and most established commercial roofing systems in existence. Consisting of multiple alternating layers of roofing felt and hot- or cold-applied bitumen, topped with a protective surface layer of gravel or mineral granules, BUR creates a thick, redundant membrane system that has demonstrated outstanding waterproofing performance across generations of commercial buildings. Its multi-layer construction provides a level of built-in redundancy that single-ply systems simply cannot replicate.
In an industry increasingly dominated by single-ply membranes, built-up roofing holds its ground for good reason. Its multi-layer construction means that no single point of failure can compromise the entire system — water must penetrate multiple layers before reaching the substrate. The gravel surface provides excellent UV protection, fire resistance, and resistance to foot traffic and minor punctures. BUR is also highly compatible with rooftop equipment, heavy foot traffic areas, and applications where long-term durability is the primary concern.
• Multi-layer construction provides built-in redundancy and superior waterproofing
• Proven 100+ year track record in commercial roofing applications
• Gravel surface provides excellent UV, fire, and impact protection
• Highly resistant to foot traffic and rooftop mechanical equipment loads
• Compatible with a wide range of insulation systems
• Can be restored and extended with coatings at the end of service life
At Advanced Roofing and Sons, Inc., built-up roofing is a system our team has extensive hands-on experience with. We understand the critical importance of proper felt alignment, bitumen application temperature, and surface aggregate embedment — the details that separate a high-performing BUR system from one that falls short.
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