Asphalt Innovations - Why BUR is ideal for Vegetative Roofs

Published: Wed, 05/22/19

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June 9th-11th

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Hello ,

As part of our ongoing Innovation Series of emails, we would like to highlight the important role that Built-up Roofs play within a rapidly growing sector of the roofing market - Vegetative or “Green Roof” systems.

According to a 2017 study by the Freedonia Group, the total demand for vegetative roofing systems is forecast to increase 11% per year through the year 2023 to an anticipated market size of 16.9 million square feet. This estimate is likely conservative considering that government support in most major markets is sure to increase as these systems have more time in use and more data on the benefits of Vegetative roofing systems are compiled.

This is important news for roofing contractors and the asphalt industry because Built up Roofing systems create the ideal platform for green roofs for many reasons. The monolithic structure of a Built up Roofing system not only provides excellent waterproofing but also forms a nearly impenetrable root barrier, the importance of which cannot be understated with these systems. Asphalt roofs can also withstand the deformation caused by numerous layers of green roof materials resting on top of it for years at a time.

Additionally, with vegetative roofing systems comes a marked increase in foot traffic and use of tools and equipment both small and large. Built up Roofing systems have proven far more resilient than single ply systems when it comes to tool punctures and heavy foot traffic. Vegetative roofs also lead to the proliferation of insects and studies have shown EPDM particularly susceptible to bore holes, an issue unseen with BUR. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, Built up Roof systems comparative longevity and low maintenance costs are key factors in offsetting the cost of maintaining vegetative roofs.

United Asphalts manufactures the highest quality roofing asphalt available to contractors in the rapidly growing Vegetative Roofing Sector. The green roof revolution is underway and asphalt roofs are the best option to form the foundation!