MODIFIED BITUMEN
Modified Bitumen is a type of roofing that is an evolution of asphalt roofing. It is made from asphalt and a variety of rubber modifiers and solvents. There are several ways of connecting pieces of this material. In a heat application process the seams are heated to melt the asphalt together and create a seal. There is also hot-mopped application, similar to how conventional built-up roofs are installed. Cold-applied adhesives and self-adhesive membranes are two of the more recent options
Modified Bitumen is a type of Membrane roofing is a type of roofing system for many types of commercial buildings. It is used to move water off the roof in an efficient manner. Membrane roofs are most commonly made from synthetic rubber, thermoplastic (PVC or similar material), or modified bitumen.
One of the longer lasting roofing options for flat roofs is a modified bitumen roof. Modified bitumen is a type of asphalt product that can be applied in a number of ways to the roof in both hot and cold temperatures. Modified bitumen roofs have a lot of advantages over other types of membrane roofing, and are often seen as the modern alternative to the built up roof.
There are several different advantages to using a bitumen roof on your building or home. Unlike some newer types of roofing, it has a long, proven track record that can be counted on. Modified bitumen roofs are one of the longer lasting types of flat roofing materials, easily lasting 20 years or more.
Regardless of how the material is applied (self-adhesive sheets, hot-mopped asphalt, or cold-applied adhesives) the seams are usually melted together which help stop leaks. Other types of membrane roofing have seams that are left open or covered with another material that can weaken over time, so the fact that a bitumen roof can be seamless is a big advantage.
Bitumen roof is also very durable. They have a high-tensile strength so they are unlikely to develop the kinds of cracks that other flat and membrane roofs are known for. They are also rated against wind, fire, and hail so they are unlikely to be damaged in the event of a storm. Included in this is usually a very long manufacturer’s warranty that can help to guarantee the roof’s longevity.
One of the disadvantages of a modified bitumen roof is that they are usually black in color, which can absorb rather than reflect heat. if proper insulation is not used with it, this absorption of heat can lead to heating of the building below.
Bitumen roofing is also available in 1, 2, or 3-ply. The 1-ply material is not durable, and if used can pose certain problems such as breaking down prematurely, while the 2 and 3-ply material roofs cost significantly more to install, which can make this one of the most costly types of flat roofing products around.
Granules need to be included as part of the installation process to help protect the roof from the sun. If they are not included, this can further raise the temperature of the building or damage the roof. Unfortunately, not all types of bitumen roofs include granules as part of the installation process.
Finally, if your roof is likely to hold a lot of water or to gather puddles of standing water after rainstorms, this can prematurely age and damage the bitumen roof.