Built-Up Roofing in Dallas-Fort Worth

Built-up roofing (BUR) is one of the oldest and most proven commercial roofing systems, with over 100 years of installation history in the United States. Its multi-ply construction and redundant waterproofing continue to make it a reliable choice for commercial buildings, warehouses, and institutional properties across the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. T Rock Roofing & Contracting has installed BUR commercial roofing systems in DFW for over 65 years. Call 469-931-9867 for a free consultation and site assessment.

What Is Built-Up Roofing (BUR)?

Built-up roofing, also known as gravel and tar roofing, is a multi-ply commercial roofing system built up in alternating layers of asphalt and reinforcing fabric (felts). The system typically finishes with a protective surfacing layer of gravel, mineral granules, or a cap sheet.

The multi-layer construction is BUR’s defining feature. A typical BUR system consists of:

  • Base sheet: bonded directly to the roof deck as the initial waterproofing layer
  • Two to four plies: alternating layers of asphalt and reinforcing felt (fiberglass or organic)
  • Cap sheet or surfacing: gravel, mineral granules, or a granulated cap sheet for UV protection

This layered construction provides redundant waterproofing, if one layer is compromised, the layers beneath continue to provide protection. It’s one of the most reliable commercial roofing systems ever developed.

Illustration of a built-up roof commonly used in Dallas, showcasing labeled layers from top to bottom: Gravel Surfacing, Asphalt, Felt, Felt, Asphalt, Base Sheet, Insulation, and Roof Deck. Each layer is meticulously stacked to highlight the construction materials involved in built-up roofing systems.

BUR Installation Methods

How BUR is installed affects both cost, safety, and installation timeline. T Rock installs BUR using two primary methods:

  • Hot applied (hot mopping): hot asphalt is spread on the substrate and felt plies are laid into it. The traditional and most common BUR installation method with proven long-term performance. Requires safety protocols for open flames and hot asphalt handling.
  • Cold applied: cold-process adhesives are used instead of hot asphalt. No open flames or hot asphalt handling. Ideal for occupied buildings, urban environments, or projects with fire safety restrictions.

The right method depends on your building’s occupancy, structural conditions, safety requirements, and budget. We’ll recommend the best approach during your consultation.

BUR Manufacturers We Install

T Rock installs BUR systems from all major North American manufacturers:

  • GAF: comprehensive BUR system line with strong warranty options.
  • Johns Manville: extensive BUR system components including felts, cap sheets, and modified systems.
  • Firestone Building Products: full BUR system offerings.
  • Siplast: premium BUR manufacturer for high-performance specifications.
  • CertainTeed: BUR components with extensive warranty backing.

Manufacturer choice affects warranty length, insurance value, and available system components. During your consultation, we can recommend the best manufacturer for your building’s specifications.

Why Built-Up Roofing Remains a Valid Commercial Choice

BUR has advantages that keep it specified for commercial and institutional buildings decades after single-ply alternatives have arrived:

  • Multi-layer redundancy: multiple plies provide backup waterproofing that single-ply systems cannot match
  • Proven long-term performance: over 100 years of installation data document expected behavior in various climates
  • Excellent for re-roof and continuation: existing BUR roofs can often be repaired or extended rather than fully replaced
  • UV and impact protection: gravel surfacing provides exceptional UV protection and impact resistance
  • Fire resistance: Class A fire rated with appropriate surfacing
  • Traffic tolerance: gravel or granulated surface accepts foot traffic well
  • Institutional and government specifications: many public buildings and institutional projects specifically require BUR systems

Built-Up Roofing Cost and Lifespan

BUR is a proven commercial roofing investment. Realistic DFW cost and lifespan expectations:

  • Installation cost: comparable to modified bitumen and generally less expensive than premium single-ply systems. Cost varies with number of plies, cap sheet type, and installation method.
  • Lifespan: 30-40 years for properly installed multi-ply BUR systems in North Texas climate. Some installations exceed 50 years with appropriate maintenance.
  • Warranty options: 15-30 years depending on manufacturer, system, and installation certification.
  • Repair-friendly: existing BUR systems can typically be repaired and extended when appropriate, rather than fully replaced.

During your consultation, we provide a written scope of work and firm pricing so you can budget accurately.

Warranty and RCAT-Licensed Installation

BUR performance depends entirely on installation quality. Improper ply lap, inadequate asphalt coverage, or poor flashing details cause premature failure. T Rock is RCAT licensed (#03-0619) and trained on installation methods from all major BUR manufacturers.

All T Rock BUR installations come with:

  • Manufacturer material and system warranty: 15-30 years depending on manufacturer, system, and specification
  • T Rock labor and workmanship warranty: 10 years on commercial flat roof installations
  • Manufacturer certifications: on premium installations we can provide manufacturer-backed system warranties (NDL, edge-to-edge, or extended warranties)
  • Full documentation: photo records, warranty registration, and project records for insurance and property files

Explore Commercial Roofing Options

BUR is one of several commercial roofing systems we install. Related pages:

Serving Commercial Properties Across Dallas-Fort Worth

T Rock installs built-up roofing across the entire DFW Metroplex, from Burleson to Sherman and from Weatherford to Forney. Our coverage includes Dallas, Fort Worth, Plano, Arlington, McKinney, Flower Mound, Lewisville, Keller, Sherman, Mansfield, Argyle, Northlake, Double Oak, Honey Grove, Lantana, and surrounding communities.

Ready to explore built-up roofing for your commercial property?

Call 469-931-9867 or schedule your free consultation online. We can be on site within 24 hours to inspect your building, evaluate the right BUR system for your needs, and provide a written scope and firm pricing. One T Rock project manager handles your project from consultation through warranty registration.