Roofing companies and contractors who have done commercial work for a while will be familiar with modified bitumen. Modified bitumen (mod bit) roofs are a classic alternative to built up roofs. You can tell if a modified bitumen (mod bit) roof is being installed by whether or not the installer is holding a blow torch.
What is Modified Bitumen?
Modified bitumen is used to manufacture asphalt products such as modified bitumen. Asphalt is usually blown over a roof substrate or deck in rolls that are rolled out using a blowtorch. This was one of the first alternatives to Built Up Roofs, which dominated low slope or flat roofs in the early 20th century.
What is the life expectancy of a modified bitumen roof?
With appropriate maintenance, Mod Bit roofs have been used by the roofing industry for a very long time. The strength and durability of modified bitumen make it an ideal material for flat roofing.
Modified bitumen roofs, however, do not have a life expectancy of more than 15 years due to their difficulty in installation. The installation of mod bits can be challenging, especially if the roof has challenging properties. As a result, a maximum life expectancy cannot be guaranteed.
A blowtorch used on the roof can start a fire, so the building must be unoccupied during installation if a torch is used.
EPDM vs. Modified Bitumen
Modified bitumen is more forgiving than EPDM when it comes to installation, but it is more error-prone. Moreover, modified bitumen cannot handle ponding water (water that is not allowed to drain properly from the roof).
In general, EPDM is a very reliable roofing material, easy to install, and resistant to water ponding. However, modified bitumen is more durable than EPDM.
Modified Bitumen Pros
The most durable and longest-lasting bitumen is modified bitumen. Modified bitumen roofs have been known to last up to 20 years without any maintenance or attention. After ten years, asphalt roofing systems begin to show signs of wear and require more frequent maintenance and replacement.
The excellent waterproofing qualities of this material, along with its longevity, have made it possible to use a variety of different installation methods, but usually a hot-processing method is used to achieve the best durability. Mod bit also performs exceptionally well in extreme cold weather conditions. Even at temperatures below freezing, its material will remain flexible (not crack).
Call All Star San Antonio Roofing in San Antonio and request a free estimate for Commercial Modified Bitumen installation at your business property.