Investigating Modified Roof Systems- Is It Best for You?

Determining what type of roof to use for your home or business can be difficult. A few things to keep in mind while deciding are durability and longevity, price, cost effectiveness and overall practicality of the roof. There are many types and materials to choose from, with many people now opting for a roofing system known as modified bitumen.



Modified bitumen roofing is a newer development in the world of membrane roofing, which is designed for moving water off the roof. Modified bitumen uses a type of asphalt that is rolled up into sheets and applied to the roof using an adhesive, either through a hot or cold patch process. This type of roofing is generally used for flat or low-sloping roofs and mainly in commercial roofing applications. However, it has become increasingly popular for residential roofing over its lifespan.

Durability of Modified Roofing Systems

Modified bitumen roofing (when installed properly) has several advantages when it comes to durability and longevity. These roofing systems use polyester and fiberglass to provide strength to the roof and synthetic rubber additives to increase flexibility. This allows for expansion and contraction due to heat and moisture.

One of the drawbacks, however, is how you apply the roof. These roofs can be done in single, double, or triple-ply. Obviously, there is a strength increase as you add more, but also there is a significant increase in price. Double ply is the most common and involves rolling a new layer over the seam between two rolls on the bottom layer. Double and triple-ply last about 20 years typically, and while a single-ply roof is still very durable, Louisiana’s hot and wet climate may demand the reinforcement of adding another layer.

Price and Cost Effectiveness of Modified Roofing Systems

Modified bitumen roofing is typically applied to flat roofs, making the process far less tedious than installing on a pitched roof. Compared to other types of flat roofing, modified bitumen is one of the more labor-intensive applications. The process must be done professionally. Roughly every four feet of the roll must be torched or adhered to the roof, making it a time-consuming process. Luckily, the materials are inexpensive compared to other flat roof materials like PVC and TPO roofing. This means that total installation costs are about the same ranging from about $3-$6 per square foot.

When it comes to cost effectiveness, there are some pros and cons. The roof is likely to withstand the weather and last longer than some of the other methods. The price difference in the more durable materials is quite a leap, but these costlier roofs will only barely outlive a properly installed modified bitumen. Keeping your building cool can be difficult. The colors available for modified bitumen roofs may absorb heat, rather than reflect it causing the building to become heated and making cooling costs potentially higher than some of the other styles.

Overall Practicality of Modified Roofing Systems

All in all, modified bitumen systems are a great solution to flat or low-sloping roofs for residential and commercial application. A professionally installed modified bitumen will outlast many other roofing systems. Modified bitumen is very economically sound and provides a structure that is capable of withstanding Louisiana’s sudden weather changes.

For questions about whether a modified bitumen roof is right for your home or business, contact Cribbs Inc . We provide service and installation of several types of roofing and are here to help you determine which is best for your Louisiana roof!