Built-up roof membranes or BUR for short, have been used in commercial settings for over 100 hundred years. This tried and true roofing system is made up of alternating layers of bitumen and other reinforcing materials in order to create a strong membrane. The bitumen used can either be classified as “cold” or “hot”, both with their own pros and cons. Over the top of the bitumen will be ply sheets. Some modern BUR systems will also include a layer of insulation to aid in energy efficiency. To top it all off, a layer of stones or pebbles are adhered making the roof safe to walk on, look polished, and protect the underlying layers from damaging conditions and falling debris.
Advantages of BUR: