By Polyglass. 

Contemplating a brand new roof? Right here is why modified bitumen roofing is the selection for tens of millions of contractors.  

Modified bitumen roofing has grow to be one of the vital frequent industrial roofing programs within the trade all through the years. What began as an experiment within the trade, is now thought-about a superior choice to different roofing sorts. However what makes this materials distinctive? On this information, we’ll breakdown what modified bitumen is made from and what the different sorts are, along with its many advantages like its sturdiness, flexibility and ease of set up.  

What’s modified bitumen roofing? 

Modified bitumen is considered the evolutionary cousin of the built-up roofing programs (BUR) which were used on low-slope roofs for greater than 100 years. It’s made from asphalt mixed with polymerized rubber or plastic, then bolstered with fiberglass to create a rugged-yet-flexible waterproof membrane. 

Modified bitumen roofing is primarily used on flat or low-slope industrial roofs. Relying on the sort and materials, these membranes could also be put in as a part of a two-layer system or as a part of a multi-ply system. 

Historical past of modified bitumen 

Modified bitumen first appeared in industrial roofing within the mid-Nineteen Sixties in Europe. Earlier than that point, the traditional roofing system used on most industrial constructions was built-up roofing (BUR), a sophisticated system of alternating layers of asphalt and material with a high layer of gravel. 

Whereas BUR was a tried-and-true methodology, it was heavy, pricey to put in, troublesome to restore, and infrequently had bother holding up towards excessive temperatures. By integrating the bitumen with polymers and fiberglass right into a easy membrane, the builders of modified bitumen hoped to simplify the roofing course of whereas resolving among the most typical points with BUR. 

General, the efforts have been profitable. Modified bitumen proved to be simpler to put in whereas offering enhanced safety in comparison with BUR programs, even in very chilly temperatures. By 1975, modified bitumen was in vast use right here in america, and right now, it has all however changed BUR as one of the vital dependable roofing supplies in the marketplace. 

Software strategies for modified bitumen 

Modified bitumen sometimes is available in membrane type, in rolls which might be put in straight onto the substrate by way of an adhesive. The fabric could also be warmth welded, cold-adhered, or in some circumstances, self-adhered (as with a lot of Polyglass’ high merchandise that characteristic ADESO® self-adhering know-how). 

Some modified bitumen membranes may additionally be mechanically connected. Most purposes name for not less than two layers (a base layer and a cap layer), however in some circumstances, it might be put in in a multi-ply system of three or extra layers. 

Modified bitumen membrane sorts 

Modified bitumen sometimes falls into one in every of two varieties: APP and SBS. 

APP membranes 

Generally nicknamed “plastic asphalt,” atactic polypropylene (APP) membranes include asphalt blended with plasticized polymers that grow to be elastic underneath excessive temperatures. APP is proof against UV rays and is an effective selection for constructions searching for a “cool roof” impact. 

SBS membranes 

SBS stands for styrene-butadiene-styrene, however it helps to consider SBS roofing as “elastic” or “rubberized” asphalt. This membrane combines asphalt with polymerized rubber for pure flexibility and elasticity. SBS is an effective selection for buildings whose roofs develop and contract with excessive temperature adjustments, in addition to roofs topic to greater winds.   

What are the advantages of modified bitumen roofing? 

1. Tear-resistance. Modified bitumen presents excellent sturdiness and tensile power, making it proof against tears from weathering, particles and even constant foot visitors. 
2. Waterproof. When correctly put in, modified bitumen gives among the finest waterproofing safety of any roofing materials in the marketplace. Redundant layers improve this high quality even additional. 
3. Ease of set up, restore and upkeep. Modified bitumen is simple to keep up, and if it does tear or leak, it may be simply patched. 
4. Flexibility. Modified bitumen expands and contracts with altering climate situations with out dropping integrity. 
5. Vitality-efficient. Sure sorts of modified bitumen supply excessive UV resistance and replicate the solar’s rays for decrease power payments. 

Modified bitumen FAQs 

How lengthy does modified bitumen final? 

Modified bitumen has a mean life expectancy of about 20 years, probably extra with correct care and upkeep. 

How is modified bitumen roofing utilized? 

Modified bitumen is often utilized by warmth (torch) welding, cold-process adhesive or self-adhering membranes. 

How is modified bitumen roofing repaired? 

Modified bitumen roofing is often simply repaired by slicing away the broken piece of membrane, making use of a modified bitumen patch, and making use of a sealant to guard it. 

What does APP stand for? 

APP stands for atactic polypropylene, a thermoplastic materials utilized in modified bitumen. 

What does SBS stand for? 

SBS stands for styrene-butadiene-styrene, a type of artificial rubber utilized in modified bitumen. 

What are the downsides of modified bitumen roofing? 

Modified bitumen requires a little bit of ability to put in, and it presents a possible fireplace hazard when heat-welded. Self-adhering modified bitumen membranes resolve this drawback — not solely do they save contractors time and labor, however in addition they don’t require a torch for set up. 

What are the advantages of self-adhered membranes? 

As beforehand talked about, self-adhered modified bitumen is far simpler to put in because the adhesive layer is already utilized. It additionally eliminates the fireplace dangers related to torch welding. 

What’s cold-applied roofing? 

Chilly-applied roofing refers to roof membranes which might be connected with a cold-process (water or solvent-based) adhesive quite than by warmth welding. 

Can you put in modified bitumen in chilly climate? 

Modified bitumen could be put in in chilly temperatures with sure issues and precautions. For finest outcomes, select roofing merchandise which might be predicted for cold-weather set up. For instance, Polyglass’ low-temperature Polar cap and base membranes are specifically designed for set up in freezing temperatures. 

Unique article supply: Polyglass