Preferred Roofing has more than three decades of experience in roofing, focusing specifically on the grueling challenges that come from Oklahoma weather. We’re a family-owned and operated company that offers various roofing options. Bitumen roofs are one of our areas of great expertise.
Bitumen roofs “weather the storm,” so to speak, lasting far longer than other kinds of roofing for both commercial and residential properties with flat roofs.
Understanding Bitumen Roofs
There are two kinds of these roofs: a built-up roof and a modified bitumen roofing system, BUR and Mod Bit, respectively. BUR systems are the tried-and-true method that has protected roofs for over 100 years. Mod Bit uses fiberglass or polyester reinforcement added to its modified bitumen membrane, a more modern technique than BUR.
Benefits of Bitumen Roofs for Oklahoma
These roofs stand up well under the punishment that Oklahoma weather can dish out. They’re only for certain structures, but their cost-effectiveness and energy efficiency combine well with their toughness to make them attractive.
The math behind the feasibility of bitumen involves how much weight the building in question can support. These roofs are quite heavy, which is their only real drawback. Their multilayered construction, including a cap sheet, makes them the best choice for foot traffic on the roof.
Is Bitumen Waterproof?
In short, the answer is yes. When a contractor installs one of these roofs correctly, it will be completely waterproof. However, because the roof has a multi-ply construction, it requires more upkeep than other roof types. Preferred Roofing is a renowned expert who is both A+-rated and fully accredited by the Better Business Bureau. With our aforementioned experience, you can trust our bitumen acumen.
Can You Paint a Modified Bitumen Roof?
Yes, you can paint certain kinds of Mod-Bit roofs. Generally, the best candidate for such painting is a single-ply Mod-Bit roof, which you can cover with reflective paint that contains aluminum. However, it’s important to note that you can’t have us paint your roof at the time of installation.
Because bitumen is halfway between solid and liquid, painting the roof right away won’t work. You must let the roof sit for at least 90 days before painting it. Of course, every roof installation is different, so your wait time may vary based on the particulars of your roof. We can advise you on that.
How Long Does a Bitumen Roof Last?
The short answer is “20-30 years.” However, roofs require regular maintenance and upkeep to last that long. Of course, Oklahoma weather does no one any favors. The relentlessness of Oklahoma’s weather can shorten a roof’s lifespan and create a need for more care and attention.
Other considerations include proper ventilation and the chosen materials from the outset. We have experience with several materials, installation techniques, and all other roofing best practices. We also focus heavily on building customer relationships that last as long as our superb roofs.
How to Repair a Bitumen Roof
Spot repairs are generally possible. In some cases, we can do slightly larger repairs, but large-scale repairs usually require reinstallation of the affected section. Some common fixes include minor blistering, cracking, and tearing.
Sometimes, your roof will become uneven, and water will pool, creating extra weight. In all cases, we have the expertise to repair and restore your roof to its previous strength effectively. We’ll discuss all your options regarding repairs, even if you must replace a large section of your roof.
Choosing the Right Roof
More roof types are available than bitumen, so you need to know about them in case bitumen isn’t right for your structure. Thermoplastic polyolefin, for example, while similar to Mod Bit because of its single-ply nature, relies on mechanical attachment and bonding glue rather than cold adhesion.
Metal roofs last longer than bitumen, but they cost significantly more. Shingles also cost more, often three times the bitumen, but also last longer. They’re not good for flat roofs, however. Neither are metal roofing materials. Flat, or nearly flat, roofs are where bitumen shines, while slope roofs are the domain of shingles and metal.
Bitumen Roof FAQs
Several variables, including pitch, square footage, and labor, affect installation costs. Generally, the materials cost about $7 per square foot, and labor costs about $4 per square foot. If we remove and dispose of the old roof, that will cost extra.
In most cases, because they’re recyclable, these roofs are environmentally friendly because they not only create a use for excess petroleum but also because they are great at absorbing heat, thus lowering your heating costs.
The roofing membranes crack, blister, or tear.
Yes, we do. We’ll check things out, inspect the whole roof, and inform you of anything needed.
You can call us, email us, or use the contact form on our website.
Bitumen Roofing OKC
Preferred Roofing is one of the most qualified roofing companies in the United States. It can help you with any roofing products you might want or need, including bitumen and SBS membranes. It stands up well to most any kind of weather in Oklahoma. It will last when you let us partner with you regarding your residential or commercial roofing. Contact us today to set up an appointment.
Preferred Roofing is the top roof company in OKC, offering expert commercial roofing & residential roofing repair in Oklahoma City. Specializing in metal roofing, shingle roofers, TPO roofing, spray foam roof, and silicone roofing. From metal shingles to standing seam roofs, explore our cost-effective solutions, including corrugated metal, steel sheets, asphalt shingles, and more. As the best roof contractors in OKC, we prioritize satisfaction, providing durable solutions for both commercial and residential roofing.