At Elite Roofing, built-up roofing membranes are some of the most popular options that we see for roofing repairs or new constructions.
A 3-Ply Hybrid BUR differs from other membrane options due to its combination of a 1ply base sheet with two plies of glass felt that enhances the performance of the membrane with a quicker installation time and less weight on the roofing system itself. A 3-ply roofing system can be a great option for building owners looking for a quick turnaround time for installation, but this kind of membrane isn’t one size fits all. If you’re considering a 3-ply BUR system for your building, here are our top considerations before you make your decision.
Benefits of a 3-ply BUR Hybrid System:
No Flame: A 3-ply hybrid system has a wide range of temperatures to install the roof membrane. This means that a no-flame or low-flame installation is possible. This is extremely helpful when fire is a concern for the building or structure in question.
Low Odour: When installing a 3-ply hybrid BUR membrane, low-odour asphalt is an option. Low-odour asphalt is often used in structures where odour is a main concern (food preparation) or when repairs/replacements are being done while the building is still open and functional.
Quick Installation: If time is of the essence, 3-ply systems can be installed quickly without sacrificing performance due to the 1 SBS base sheet combined with 2 plies of glass felt. It is possible to install the 1 ply of base sheet and be watertight. The 2 plies of glass felt could be installed at a later time, if necessary, due to changing weather patterns etc.
Class A Fire Rating: Use of aggregate cover (pea gravel) yields a Class A fire rated assembly, which exceeds building code requirement for a Class C fire rating. This could save on your insurance costs for your building, and also offer peace of mind if fire is a concern for your structure.
Even though 3-ply hybrid BUR systems are suitable for most roofs, it isn’t always the system we recommend.
You Should Consider A Different Roofing Membrane If:
Heat Is A Concern: All dark roofing systems absorb lots of heat, which can contribute to your energy costs. If this is a concern, there are other roofing options where a white membrane is possible to mitigate this issue.
You Do Not Have Budget For Regular Maintenance: We recommend that all of our roofing systems be regularly maintained to maximize their life span, but for 3-ply hybrid systems, maintenance is especially important. Ballasted systems are particularly susceptible to trapped dirt, giving algae the opportunity to grow. This problem is exacerbated by ponding or water collecting of any kind, so it’s crucial that this kind of system have regular maintenance.
