Roof, Built-Up

Definition

A built-up roof is a roof covering made of continuous rolls or sheets of saturated or coated felt embedded in a bituminous coating, often with a final ballast coating of gravel or slag.

Purpose

The purpose of a built-up roof is to provide a durable, weather-resistant roofing solution for flat or low-slope roofs, offering multiple layers of protection against water infiltration and other environmental factors.

Examples of Use

• Commercial buildings with flat roofs often use built-up roofing systems for their durability and cost-effectiveness.
• Industrial facilities employ built-up roofs to protect against harsh weather conditions and heavy foot traffic.
• Warehouses and other large buildings use built-up roofs for reliable, long-term waterproofing.

Related Terms

• Bitumen: A sticky, black, and highly viscous liquid or semi-solid form of petroleum used in roofing and road construction.
• Felt: A material made from fibers, used as a base in built-up roofing systems.
• Gravel Ballast: A layer of gravel spread on the surface of a built-up roof to protect the underlying layers and provide stability.

Notes

Built-up roofs require proper installation and maintenance to ensure their effectiveness and longevity, often involving periodic inspections and repairs.