Owning a commercial building has its good days and its bad days. While it can be daunting to learn your roof is beyond repair, finding out you need a new roof might not be such a bad thing. With advancements in high-quality roofing materials like SBS modified bitumen, you have the chance to make an investment that will last for as long as 50 years. SBS modified bitumen roofs are truly made to last. They rarely leak, and when they do, they can often be fixed with a quick repair. Find out more about this roofing material before you take the plunge and commit to it for the next half-century.
What Is SBS Modified Bitumen Roofing?
SBS modified bitumen roofing is a material made out of asphalt and synthetic rubber, making it an exceptionally flexible material for flat roofs. Thanks to its rubber composition, the material is less prone to cracking and sustaining damage from elements like ice and sun. In addition, because newer building materials are more lightweight in nature, they are more susceptible to micro-movements. For the roof to stay in good shape, it must be flexible so it can move with the building, which is why SBS modified bitumen is a good choice. This material works best on low-slope commercial roofs, and many manufacturers use glass, polyester, or composite reinforcements.
SBS Modified Bitumen vs. APP Modified Bitumen
SBS modified bitumen roofing and APP modified bitumen are two very similar roofing materials. Both roofing materials are bitumen membrane roofing sheets made out of asphalt. However, the difference lies in the way the materials are modified.
Manufacturers make APP modified bitumen by adding plastic. In order to make SBS modified bitumen, they use rubber. Both roofing materials possess greater flexibility than traditional BUR roofing systems, but SBS is the more flexible choice of the two. Regardless of which roofing option you go with, make sure you purchase your modified bitumen roofing material from a trustworthy manufacturer to ensure your sheets are consistent in quality and thickness.
The Installation Process
When it comes to installing SBS modified bitumen, roofers have a few options. They can apply this material’s membranes using cold, heat welded, self-adhered, mechanically fastened, or hot application methods. The best installation method depends on the roof’s size and shape, as well as the specific material brand. However, the heat-welded option is the most common. Despite its intimidating-looking process, it is actually much easier and less messy than other options, like self-adhered. Your contractor will know the best installation method to use to ensure your roof is properly applied.
This roofing material best suits flat roofs, and if your flat roof has gravel on it, your roofer will need to remove it before installing the SBS modified bitumen. However, certain other roofing materials can stay in place on installation day if they are flat enough. Before installing the roof, your roofer will add insulation as well (source).
_____
Your roofer can help you choose the best roofing material for your building. And remember that your roof is only as good as your roofer. Even the best roofing material can fall short if it is installed by an inadequate company.
If you live in southwest Missouri, contact Taylor-Made Roofing for help. With over 20 years of experience in residential and commercial roofing, Taylor-Made Roofing is a company that you can trust with all of your roofing needs. Our family-owned business offers quality services, a reassuring warranty, and free estimates. For more information, please contact us online. We look forward to hearing from you!