New Roof Installation in Broward County.

The ultimate guide for modified bitumen new roof installation in Broward County

Modified bitumen has been a strong contender for flat and low-sloping commercial roofing installation for over four decades. Its unique properties combine the benefits of old built-up roofs, such as tar or gravel, with the convenience of modern single-ply roofing, allowing for a durable roof with easy-to-transport materials.

Flat roofing systems have unique requirements that demand more frequent maintenance than residential roofs. Their low slope makes them prone to ponding rainwater, which eventually leaks and sags. They also need roofing materials more resistant to foot traffic than those used for steeped roofs. That’s where modified bitumen roofs come into play. 

What are modified bitumen roofs?

These flat roofing solutions are durable and flexible membranes made from asphalt enhanced with modified polymers to give rubber-like properties such as flexibility and strength. Like single-ply membranes, modified bitumen (also called modified-bit) comes in rolls, usually 36 - 39 inches, making them easier to maneuver in tight and reduced spaces than TPO rolls.

Modified bitumen requires specialized skills to install, so you must ensure the roofing services you choose have experience with it to guarantee a proper installation and prevent leaks and premature damage.

The pros and cons of modified bitumen for your commercial roof installation

3 advantages of modified bitumen roofs

1. Greater thickness and resistance to high foot traffic

New roof construction with modified bitumen usually has two or three layers of material. These layers provide greater thickness than single-ply membranes and become a sturdier barrier against extreme weather conditions, such as the abundant rainfall and high humidity levels of Broward County. Likewise, its enhanced thickness makes it the perfect option for high-traffic commercial roofing systems, especially if you store some of your business equipment on the roof.

While single-ply membranes such as TPO or PVC are prone to denting or puncturing due to frequent foot traffic, modified bitumen roofs will stand better for people frequently walking on them. However, this does not mean you should use your roof as a deck or a storage room. Hence, keep the foot traffic on your new roof installation as minimal as possible. 

2. Provides easier off-the-shell repairs

Since Modified bitumen roofs are made from asphalt compounds, they’re compatible with other asphalt-based roofing products such as shingles, roofing cement, or wet patches. This allows roofing contractors to repair your roof faster without needing adhesive or solvents, reducing the downtime due to extensive roof repairs. 

With single-ply roofing, they’ll likely need seam cleaners, primers, and heat gunts to repair your roof, increasing the time and labor costs. 

3. It’s fire and wind-resistant.

Thanks to its asphalt base, modified bitumen can stop flames from spreading on other surfaces, protecting the investment in your new roof installation and your business. These roofs have also proven to perform better against gusty winds than other materials that can result in curling or missing after a gale. This enhanced protection against natural emergencies contributes to their longevity and durability, saving you money down the road. 

3 considerations of modified bitumen roofs

1. It is more likely to absorb heat.

Modified bitumen roofing systems are commonly black, a color that increases their thermal conductivity compared to single-ply roofing membranes and causes them to absorb more heat during summer. This increased heat absorption can grow your business cooling costs over time as it makes it more challenging to regulate indoor temperature.

Luckily, modified bitumen roofs in sienna and white colors, and modifier cap sheets are available. These products increase the reflective properties of these roofing solutions, ensuring your roof absorbs less heat in summer.

2. More vulnerable to ponding water problems

Modified bitumen roofs may hold rainwater after particularly heavy storms, which can result in ponding water issues and compromise the quality of your new roof installation. These roofs don’t stand against ponds as well as their thermoplastic counterparts, and they may deteriorate sooner if you have ponding water issues. 

3. Their application methods are riskier.

The most common method for applying modified bitumen is torch-down. In this method, roofing services use a propane-fueled roofing torch to heat the back of the membrane and adhere it to the substrate on your roof. This roofing installation technique involves more hazards than other self-adherent single-ply membranes that don’t require installation tools. 

For this reason, you should always ensure that your roofing contractors have worked in modified bitumen installations and that they have the necessary skills and knowledge to avoid accidents with the torch. 

Find expert commercial roof installation in Broward County.

Hyer Quality specializes in several commercial roofing installations, from modified bitumen to tapered insulation roofing systems, to best fit your business needs and ensure you get a roof that provides protection and no headaches. 

Our professionals will help you choose the best materials to ensure your business increases energy efficiency and productivity without compromising your finances. 

Call us at 954 781 8556  and elevate your business today!