My quest for roofing has brought across many different types that leave me wanting to know more. The Modified Bitumen roof is no different.
It is fascinating to see the way that technology has improved our lives for the better. I thought I would share my research with you so that you will be aware of all your choices.
As I researched, there were certain things that kept popping up and leading me deeper. I used these points as the guideline for this article so that you will find all you ever wondered, or maybe never thought to wonder, about the Modified Bitumen Roof.
So what is a modified bitumen roof anyway?
Modified Bitumen is a type of asphalt roofing. In the past, asphalt roofing has been known to have some serious issues, like leaking. It hasn’t been known for its long life, only around ten years or so, contractors decided that it needed some improvements. We are all glad that they did.
It comes in several types. They come sheets that go on quickly and easily. The edges are then melted together so that they don’t leak. You can also have it mopped on when it is in a liquid state.
There is the modified type that also has a rubber base that has a seam that locks in together. It’s like those sheets of flooring that you snap together. They are melded together as well.
All of these improvements have extended its life to around twenty years. This makes it a lot more budget friendly at the beginning but also in the maintenance department.
The Advantages to a Modified Bitumen Roof
I have already told you that they have less maintenance and good lifespan, but another great advantage is the strength. The asphalt and rubber combination makes it durable and holds up to so much more than your standard roofing.
If you live in a high hail, wind area, then you will understand the importance of this.
Let’s put it this way, I live in tornado alley, even though I don’t have a tornado hit my house every year, I do have high winds. And if you’re reading this you’re probably from the Chicago area and no stranger to strong winds as well, You need a Chicago roofing solution right? Because these winds can pull back the shingles of a roof.
Normally I brace myself for the fact I will have to replace some shingles, but a modified bitumen roof wouldn’t be subjected to this kind of defeat. It will hold up and not leak because of how it is applied. That is a true winner in my book.
The best part is that you can add features like solar panels to it with few issues. It is flexible and can be molded into where you want it. This is a great choice for roofs that are oddly shaped or has difficult angles in it.
The Disadvantages
Let’s face it, no matter what you do in life; you are going to have something not so good about it. That is the same with roofing. Installation is always the very first thing you will look at.
There are three types of installation that you will be offered. The one-ply is exactly how it sounds. It is a one layer roof that will not be near as durable as you would need for extreme weather areas.
Image via: inspectapedia
Then there is two-ply, and three-ply, both are significantly more durable but with each layer comes higher pricing and labor.
Image via: inspectapedia
You must wait for each layer to be set and in place before adding the next. If you need emergency roofing, this may not be for you.
An unexpected charge may come from the fact you need granules that go over the top of the layers. This has a distinct purpose. They help to lower the sun’s effect on the roof.
It will help your heating and cooling costs. You can skip it, but then you are going to need to spend more to insulate your home.
Insulation is going to go up as well. Modified bitumen roofs tend to absorb the heat. That means your home is going to stay significantly hotter in the summer months.
You may need to spend more on a contractor and have more insulation put into your home before you have the roof installed to ensure that you are getting the best efficiency possible.
Things to Discuss with your Contractor
As with any roof, you’re only going to get what you pay for. If you cut corners, or have a contractor that does, you may not get the quality that you need.
Before you make your roof choice, you should sit down with your contractor and discuss products, quality, and quantity that you can fit into your budget.
Don’t be afraid to ask your roofer hard questions, quality contractors will be happy to answer every question you have.
No matter how good your material is, your contractor is the key to a good roof. Make sure you ask for references, past work history, experience with that particular roof type.
You don’t want someone trying to learn as they go with your roof. Ensure that your contractor will have all permits in place and are willing to explain to you what is needed and why.
Your contractor will probably tell you the benefits in more details based on your property.
Flat or low sloped roofing almost always requires regular maintenance, but you may find that modified bitumen roofing doesn’t need it as frequently.
Before You Decide
Choosing a roof is a big choice. It is what will decide your maintenance budget for years to come. It is one of the biggest selling points in a building.
Before you decide what type of roofing you want to have on your roof, you must look at these factors:
weather durability, maintenance requirements, curb appeal, warranty, and initial costs.
You should call and talk to your insurance adjuster. Depending on the area, the type of roof you have may affect your rate and your repair deductible.
Taking just a few moments to discuss this will help you to decide exactly what roof you want.
The point of this article was to let you know what I learned in my research. I hope that it is brought you some understanding as you decide on your investment.
After all, your investment is only as good as the roof that protects it.
