When it comes to commercial and industrial roofing, one name has stood the test of time—built-up roofs (BUR). These roofing systems are a traditional, reliable choice that have been used for over a century, protecting buildings from the elements while offering impressive durability.
If you’re a property manager or a commercial building owner exploring roofing options, and “built-up roof” has popped up on your radar, this guide is for you. We’ll walk you through:
- What a built-up roof is
- Its benefits
- Typical applications
- Maintenance needs
- Why it might be the perfect roofing solution for your property
What Is a Built-Up Roof?

A built-up roof, often referred to as a BUR, is a flat or low-slope roofing system designed with multiple layers of materials to create a protective, watertight barrier. These layers alternate between reinforcing fabrics and a binding material (typically asphalt or bitumen) to ensure strength and longevity. The top layer often features a protective surfacing material, such as gravel or a mineral cap sheet, to shield the roof against sunlight and weather.
How Is a Built-Up Roof Constructed?
The construction of a BUR typically involves three to four key layers:
- Base Layer: The base is installed directly onto the roof deck as the foundation. This layer ensures proper adhesion for the other materials and acts as a moisture barrier.
- Reinforcing Layers: These consist of roofing felt or fabric, which is often made of fiberglass or organic materials. These layers add tensile strength and help maintain the structural integrity of the roofing system.
- Bitumen Layers: Hot asphalt or cold-applied adhesive is applied between the reinforcing layers to hold everything together. This bitumen layer serves as a waterproofing material and ensures a tight seal between each layer.
- Top Surfacing: The roof is capped with gravel, a mineral surface, or a reflective coating to protect the system from UV rays, improve fire resistance, and add durability.
With this multi-layered system, BUR roofs deliver excellent performance under a wide range of weather conditions.
The 7 Benefits of Built-Up Roofs
Why choose a built-up roof for your commercial property? BUR systems offer multiple advantages that make them a popular choice across industries. Here’s a closer look at their benefits:
1. Exceptional Durability
The layered design of a built-up roof provides outstanding durability. By incorporating multiple water- and tear-resistant layers, BURs are highly effective at withstanding exposure to heavy rain, hail, and even foot traffic.
2. Proven Longevity
BUR systems, when installed and maintained correctly, can last for 15 to 30 years—or even longer. Their long lifespan offers commercial building owners an excellent return on investment.
3. Superior Waterproofing
Every layer of a BUR adds an extra line of defense against water penetration. If one layer is compromised, the others reinforce its capabilities, ensuring reliable waterproofing.
4. Strong Insulation and Energy Efficiency
BUR roofs are highly effective at insulating buildings, reducing heat loss during colder months and minimizing heat gain during the summer. Additionally, the reflective surfacing helps deflect sunlight, potentially lowering energy bills.
5. Fire Resistance
The materials used in BUR systems, such as gravel and mineral cap sheets, are non-combustible. This makes BURs an optimal choice for buildings in high-risk fire zones or those requiring high safety standards.
6. Low Maintenance
The robust construction of a built-up roof minimizes the risk of damage, which translates to fewer repair needs over its lifespan.
7. Aesthetic Versatility
If the roof is visible from above—or if aesthetics matter to your building design—BURs offer a clean and professional finish, especially with a gravel top or protective coating.
Common Applications of Built-Up Roofs
Built-up roofs are best suited for flat or low-slope commercial and industrial buildings. They are commonly seen on:
- Warehouses
- Retail Centers
- Office Buildings
- Apartment Complexes
- Municipal and Government Buildings
- Educational Facilities
One of the primary reasons for BURs’ popularity in these settings is their ability to cover large roof areas cost-effectively while delivering excellent weatherproofing and insulation.
Maintaining Your Built-Up Roof

While built-up roofs are known for their durability, regular maintenance is essential for maximizing their lifespan. Here are a few tips to keep your BUR in top condition:
🔎 Inspect Your Roof Regularly
Schedule comprehensive inspections twice a year—particularly in spring and fall. Look for signs of wear and tear, including cracks, blisters, pooling water, or damaged surface layers.
⏰ Address Repairs Quickly
If any issues, such as tears in the membrane or accumulating debris, are identified during an inspection, address them promptly to prevent further commercial roof damage.
🧹 Clear Debris
Ensure your roof stays free of debris like leaves, branches, and dirt. Build-up of debris can block drainage systems or lead to pooling water, which can damage the BUR layers.
💧 Monitor Ponding Water
Flat or low-slope roofs may experience ponding water. If left unchecked, this can lead to structural issues. Consult a professional roofing contractor to address drainage or roof slope concerns.
🛡️ Apply Periodic Coatings
To enhance weather resistance, consider applying protective coatings to the BUR’s surface. These coatings reflect UV rays and add another barrier against moisture.
By following these practices, you can enjoy decades of efficient and dependable protection from this roofing system.
Built-Up Roofs vs. Other Roofing Systems
How does a built-up roof compare to other flat roofing options? Here’s a quick comparison:
BUR vs. Single-Ply Roofing
Single-ply systems, like TPO and EPDM, are lighter and easier to install but may not offer the same level of durability as BURs. BURs typically resist elements like punctures and UV exposure better, thanks to their multi-layered construction.
BUR vs. Modified Bitumen
Modified bitumen is often seen as a modern cousin to BUR systems. It uses similar asphalt layers but incorporates polymer-modified materials. While BUR is more reliable for large-scale commercial applications, modified bitumen might be a better fit for smaller, simpler projects.
BUR vs. Metal Roofing
Metal roofs deliver durability and longevity, much like BURs, but are more expensive upfront. BURs remain a cost-effective, practical choice for flat or low-slope roof needs.
Each roofing system has its strengths and weaknesses, but for property managers prioritizing durability, waterproofing, and insulation, BUR shines as a versatile and economical option.
Installation and Cost Considerations
If you’re considering a BUR for your building, here are some key aspects to keep in mind:
Cost Factors:
- Size of Your Roof: Larger roofs typically have a lower per-square-foot cost due to economy of scale.
- Surface Preparation: If your existing roof requires significant preparation, including old material removal or deck repairs, costs may increase.
- Material Choices: Premium materials, such as certain reinforcements or top-surfacing options, will drive costs higher.
BURs often cost between $3 and $12 per square foot, depending on these various factors. While this may seem like an investment, their long lifespan and minimal repair needs make them highly cost-effective over time.
Is a Built-Up Roof Right for Your Building?
Deciding whether a BUR is the right choice for your property ultimately depends on several factors, including your specific roof’s needs, budget, and climate. A professional roofing assessment can identify whether a built-up roof offers the best solution or if another option would better serve your building.
Why Choose Northface Construction for Your Built-Up Roof?
At Northface Construction, we understand that a roofing project is an investment in the future of your property—and we’re here to make sure you make the right decision. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Expertise: With extensive experience in commercial roofing, our team knows BUR systems inside and out.
- Personalized Solutions: Every property is different. We’ll assess your unique needs to recommend the best roofing solution.
- Transparency: From upfront pricing to clear communication every step of the way, our commitment to honesty ensures a stress-free experience.
- Premium Materials: We only use top-grade materials to ensure your built-up roof stands the test of time.
Curious about whether a built-up roof suits your property? Contact Northface Construction today for an expert consultation, and let’s explore the perfect roofing solution for your building.
Learn More About Built Up Roofing Systems
When it comes to protecting your commercial property, choosing the right roofing is crucial. Built-up roofs offer a time-tested balance of durability, waterproofing, insulation, and cost-effectiveness. Their multi-layered design ensures excellent protection and performance, making them a smart choice for property managers and commercial building owners.
If you’re ready to explore how a built-up roof can serve your property’s needs, contact Northface Construction today. Trust us to deliver the quality and reliability your property deserves.