Asphalt and other petroleum-based products have long been used in the roof repair, installation, and replacement industry. While asphalt shingles are the number one choice for many residential buildings, commercial properties tend to go with modified bitumen. Like asphalt shingles, modified bitumen is a derivative of petroleum and possesses similar qualities in terms of strength, durability, and performance.
Modified bitumen or mod-bit flat roofs has been used in commercial flat roofing systems since the 1970s. However, despite its prevalence, not many property owners fully understand the benefits of this sturdy and versatile material. Let our roofing professionals at Roofing by Curry give you a quick overview of mod-bit roofs and its many advantages.
Types of Modified Bitumen Roofing Systems
Roof companies primarily offer one of two types of mod-bit roofs: APP and SBS.
1. APP stands for atactic polypropylene, a thermoplastic (heat-resistant) polymer designed for buildings that experience high amounts of sun exposure all year-round. APP membranes are hot welded at the seams, often producing a smooth and continuous surface resembling shiny plastic.
2. SBS, on the other hand, is short for styrene-butadiene-styrene. SBS membranes are cold-welded, that is they are laid out in hot thick asphalt sheets. This gives SBS roofs a more rubber-like appearance when applied.
Advantages of Modified Bitumen
Perhaps the biggest draw mod-bit roofs have to both property owners and roofing contractors over other types of flat roofing systems is their durability. This type of sheet roofing requires very little maintenance and can last a good 20 to 25 years before needing replacement. Its resistance to both heat and water penetration is also a good reason why it remains to be the number one commercial roofing choice for many buildings.
Learn more about high-quality modified bitumen roofing from our experts at Roofing by Curry, your leading provider of roof installation, repair, and maintenance services. Give us a call at (941) 921-9111 or fill out our contact form and request a free estimate today. We serve properties in Sarasota, and other nearby areas.
