BUR membrane roofing from Johns Manville (JM) is our focus today as we move through our commercial roofing systems series (previous posts covered their EPDM , TPO , PVC , SBS and APP membrane roofing). We’ll wrap up our JM spotlight with their liquid applied membrane roofing and then move onto commercial roofing from Firestone. In looking at the history of BUR roofing, Building Enclosure reports built-up roof (BUR) systems emerged in U.S. commercial roofing space in the late 1800s, although “the documented use of bituminous products such as coal tar and asphalt as waterproofing products dates back thousands of years.” BUR roofing solutions at Johns Manville have a track record of 160+ years. What’s more, JM reports that nearly one billion feet of their BUR are fully guaranteed today. Keep reading as we explore more about what BUR membrane roofing offers.
Basics and Benefits
What is built-up roofing (BUR)? The Single Ply Roofing Industry states BUR systems are “composed of alternating layers of oxidized bitumen and bitumen-coated membranes, often called felts or ply sheets.” These sheets are then typically “reinforced with a dimensionally stable, high tensile strength fiber glass mat.” An aggregate or roof coating surface enhances the weathering capabilities of the roof, and the “redundant, multi-ply approach ensures the system provides dependable waterproofing for many years.” Ideal for low-slope roofs, JM describes their BUR membranes as “field-fabricated with layers of bitumen, alternating with plies of reinforcing felts.” Benefits of this BUR membrane roofing include:
- JM describes BUR as a “highly reliable waterproof membrane”
- BUR roofs are water-resistant and weather-resistant thanks to their redundant layers
- Systems are “long-lasting, durable and worry-free”
- The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association lists thermal performance as another BUR feature, noting their “exceptional resistance to the conduction of heat between the exterior and interior of a building, resulting in noticeable reductions in heating and cooling costs.”
Installation and Options
Building Enclosure stresses the importance of selecting the right roof design for your project, calling it “the most important decision in the roofing process.” Our full-service commercial roofing department at Bone Dry Roofing Company is here to handle an array of roofing projects (any size and complexity). Browse our project gallery and bios to review our qualifications and experience.
Application Methods
- Cold applied
- Hot applied
- Adhered
Products and Accessories
Allow the professionals at Bone Dry to review your project specifics before customizing a roofing solution with the best products and accessories for your needs. JM BUR products include GlasBase Plus, GlasKap, GlasKap CR G, GlasKap Plus, GlasPly IV, GlasPly Premier, GlasTite Flexible, PermaPly 28 and more (complete list on the JM website). Accessories include CR Roofing Granules for high reflectivity and durability and Granules to boost long-term adhesion.
Make sure you partner with the best roofing company in your area. Bone Dry Roofing, locally owned and operated in Charleston, SC, Bone Dry Roofing, locally owned and operated in St. Simons, Bone Dry Roofing, locally owned and operated in Athens, GA. You can contact us today to discuss your BUR membrane roofing needs at 1-855-BONEDRY.
