BUILT-UP ROOFING
Built-up roofing (BUR) delivers time-tested protection for flat and low-slope roofs. Pro Specialty Services installs multi-layer asphalt systems that have protected Florida commercial buildings for over a century.
Expert Built-Up Roofing Services in Lake County
Built-up roofing—often called tar and gravel or BUR—is the original flat roofing system with over 100 years of proven performance. Multiple layers of bitumen and reinforcing fabric create a redundant waterproofing system that remains one of the most durable flat roof options available.
At Pro Specialty Services, we install modern built-up systems using hot-applied or cold-applied asphalt with multiple plies of fiberglass or organic felts. The result is a seamless, monolithic roof membrane with no weak points to worry about.
While single-ply membranes have gained popularity, built-up roofing remains the preferred choice for many commercial building owners who value redundancy, proven longevity, and excellent resistance to foot traffic and physical abuse.
Compare BUR to other flat roofing options including modified bitumen and TPO membranes. Learn about preventing ponding water on flat roofs.
Why Built-Up Roofing Remains Relevant
Redundancy is BUR's greatest strength. With 3-5 layers of waterproofing, a minor puncture or damage doesn't compromise the entire roof. Single-ply membranes offer no such backup—one hole means one leak.
Durability under foot traffic and physical abuse makes BUR ideal for roofs that see regular maintenance access or equipment servicing. The gravel or mineral cap surface resists impacts that would puncture thinner membranes.
Proven longevity speaks volumes. BUR roofs regularly last 20-30 years, and many have exceeded 40 years of service. You're not betting on a new material—you're choosing technology that's been refined over a century.
Built-Up Roofing Systems We Install
We offer complete BUR systems for commercial applications:
Hot-Applied BUR
Traditional hot asphalt installation. Maximum adhesion and proven performance. Ideal for large commercial roofs.
Cold-Applied BUR
Adhesive-applied system without hot kettles. Lower fumes, safer installation in occupied buildings.
Gravel-Surfaced BUR
Traditional aggregate surface provides UV protection and fire resistance. Most durable cap option.
Smooth-Surfaced BUR
Mineral cap sheet or coating finish. Lighter weight and easier inspection than gravel.
Ready to Get Your Roof Fixed?
Schedule your free inspection today. We'll provide an honest assessment and transparent pricing.
Our BUR Installation Process
Deck Preparation
Remove old roofing, repair substrate, prime as needed.
Base Sheet Installation
Apply base layer mechanically fastened or adhered.
Ply Application
Install multiple interply sheets with hot or cold asphalt.
Surfacing
Apply gravel flood coat or smooth cap sheet and coatings.
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Senior Citizen Discount
65+ Years Old
We honor our seniors with special pricing on all roofing services. Ask about our senior discount when you call.
Call UsBuilt-Up Roofing Benefits
Multi-Layer Redundancy
3-5 waterproofing layers mean one puncture doesn't equal one leak.
Proven 100+ Year Track Record
The oldest, most proven flat roofing technology still in use.
Excellent Durability
Handles foot traffic, dropped tools, and physical abuse better than single-ply.
Fire Resistance
Gravel-surfaced BUR provides excellent fire protection.
No Seams to Fail
Monolithic membrane with no seam failures—a common cause of flat roof leaks.
Cost-Effective Long-Term
Lower cost per year when considering 25-30+ year lifespan.
What Our Customers Say
"PSS installed a built-up roof on our warehouse that gets heavy forklift traffic on the mezzanine above. The BUR system handles the abuse without any issues. Great recommendation from Caleb's team."
"We manage older commercial buildings and BUR remains our preferred system for reliability. Pro Specialty Services does quality work and understands how to detail these roofs properly."
"After trying single-ply on some buildings, we went back to BUR for our main facility. The redundancy gives us peace of mind with all the HVAC equipment and foot traffic on our roof."
The PSS Advantage
Experienced Installers
Our crews have decades of combined experience in built-up roofing installation.
Quality Materials
We use premium asphalts and reinforcement fabrics for maximum durability.
Proper Surfacing
Correct aggregate embedding or smooth cap sheet application for long-term protection.
Complete Flashings
Metal flashings and proper terminations that last the life of the roof.
Warranty Options
Manufacturer warranties up to 20 years on complete BUR systems.
Maintenance Programs
Optional inspection and maintenance plans to maximize roof life.
Common Questions
Properly installed BUR typically lasts 25-30 years, and many roofs exceed 40 years. The multi-layer construction provides excellent longevity when the roof is properly maintained.
For many commercial applications, absolutely. BUR offers redundancy and durability that single-ply membranes can't match. It remains the preferred choice for roofs with heavy foot traffic or where puncture resistance matters.
Both use asphalt waterproofing. BUR builds multiple layers on-site, while modified bitumen uses pre-manufactured sheets with enhanced polymers. Modified bitumen is faster to install; BUR offers more redundancy. We can help you compare.
While BUR can work on homes, modified bitumen or single-ply membranes are often more practical for residential projects. BUR installation typically makes more economic sense on larger commercial roofs.
Sometimes. If the existing roof deck is sound and the added weight is acceptable, BUR can be installed as a recover system. We'll inspect and advise whether recover or tear-off makes more sense.
Yes, hot asphalt has a strong odor during installation. Cold-applied BUR systems significantly reduce odors for installations on occupied buildings. We can recommend the best approach for your situation.
Related Services
Serving Lake County & Beyond
We provide Built-Up Roofing services throughout Central Florida.
Ready to Get Started?
Schedule your free Built-Up Roofing inspection and estimate today. We'll provide honest recommendations and transparent pricing.