Built-up roofing (BUR) is a time-tested flat-roof system made from multiple alternating layers of asphalt (bitumen) and reinforcing fabric, topped with gravel or a protective surface — creating a thick, durable, multi-layer membrane that has protected commercial buildings for over a century. Often called a “tar and gravel” roof, BUR is valued for its redundancy, durability, and resistance to Wyoming’s UV and weather. Pete’s Builders installs, repairs, and maintains built-up and other commercial roofing across Cheyenne, Laramie, and Scottsbluff, serving businesses since 2015 with an A+ Better Business Bureau rating.
What is built-up roofing?
Built-up roofing is one of the oldest and most proven commercial flat-roof systems. It’s constructed on-site by building up multiple alternating layers — plies of reinforcing felt or fabric saturated and bonded with hot or cold asphalt (bitumen) — then finished with a surfacing layer, most traditionally gravel embedded in a top coat of asphalt. The result is a thick, seamless, multi-layer membrane. The name says it all: the roof is literally “built up” from several layers, each adding waterproofing and strength. This layered construction is BUR’s defining feature and the source of its durability.
What are the benefits of built-up roofing?
- Multi-layer redundancy — several waterproofing plies mean one layer backs up another, so a single flaw is less likely to cause a leak.
- Durability — a thick, tough membrane that stands up well to foot traffic and wear.
- UV and weather resistance — the gravel surface protects the asphalt from Wyoming’s intense high-altitude sun.
- Proven track record — over a century of successful use on commercial buildings.
- Good waterproofing — the continuous, seamless layers create a reliable barrier.
- Fire resistance — the gravel surfacing adds a degree of fire protection.
What are the considerations with BUR?
Built-up roofing has trade-offs to weigh. It’s heavier than single-ply membranes, so the building structure must support the weight. Installation is more labor-intensive and, with traditional hot-asphalt application, involves heat and fumes during installation. Its dark gravel surface is less reflective than a white single-ply like TPO, though reflective coatings can be added. And like any flat roof, it depends on proper drainage to avoid ponding water. These considerations don’t diminish BUR’s strengths — they simply mean it’s the right choice for some buildings and applications and not others, which is what a professional assessment sorts out.
How does BUR compare to other flat roofing?
BUR is one of several commercial flat-roof options, each with strengths. Compared with single-ply membranes (TPO, EPDM, PVC), BUR offers multi-layer redundancy and a proven, heavy-duty surface, while single-plies are lighter, faster to install, and — in the case of TPO and PVC — reflective and energy-efficient. Compared with modified bitumen, BUR is the older multi-ply predecessor, while modified bitumen adds polymer flexibility in fewer layers. There’s no single “best” — the right system depends on the building’s structure, use, budget, and lifecycle goals. BUR’s enduring appeal is its rugged, redundant durability, which still makes it a strong choice for the right commercial application.
How do you maintain a built-up roof?
Like any commercial flat roof, a built-up roof performs best with regular maintenance. That means scheduled inspections (at least twice a year and after major storms), keeping drains clear so water doesn’t pond, checking the surfacing and flashing, and addressing small issues like blisters, cracks, or worn spots promptly before they spread. A well-maintained BUR roof can deliver a long service life, and when it eventually ages, a restoration coating can often extend it further at a fraction of replacement cost. Documented maintenance also protects any warranty. A maintenance program is a smart investment for protecting a built-up roof.
Why choose Pete’s Builders?
Pete’s Builders installs, repairs, and maintains built-up and other commercial roofing systems, giving you honest guidance on whether BUR or an alternative best fits your building. With commercial roofing expertise, licensed and insured crews, an A+ Better Business Bureau rating, and a track record since 2015, every project begins with an assessment and a written, itemized proposal. Service covers Cheyenne, Laramie, Scottsbluff, and surrounding communities.
Is built-up roofing a good choice for Wyoming’s climate?
Built-up roofing has qualities that suit Wyoming’s demanding climate well, along with a few factors to plan around. On the positive side, BUR’s gravel surfacing shields the asphalt from the intense high-altitude UV that ages many roofing materials faster here, and its thick, multi-layer, redundant construction stands up to hail and the wear of a harsh environment better than a thin single membrane — a real advantage where hail is a frequent threat. The seamless, continuous nature of a well-installed BUR roof also handles the region’s wind-driven rain and snow effectively when drainage is done right. The main things to plan for in Wyoming are snow load and drainage — like any flat roof, a BUR system needs proper slope and clear drains so that snowmelt clears rather than ponding and refreezing — and the fact that the dark gravel surface absorbs more heat than a reflective membrane, which can be offset with a reflective coating if energy efficiency is a priority. Weighed together, built-up roofing remains a genuinely strong option for many Wyoming commercial buildings, particularly where rugged durability and hail resistance matter more than reflectivity or minimizing weight. The right way to decide is a professional assessment of your building’s structure, use, and goals, so the system — whether BUR, a single-ply membrane, or modified bitumen — is matched to what your building actually needs and will perform reliably through Wyoming’s hail, wind, snow, and sun for years to come.
Frequently asked questions
What is built-up roofing (BUR)?
Built-up roofing is a flat-roof system made from multiple alternating layers of asphalt and reinforcing fabric, topped with gravel or a protective surface. Often called “tar and gravel,” it creates a thick, durable, multi-layer membrane.
What are the advantages of a built-up roof?
BUR offers multi-layer redundancy, durability, UV and weather resistance from its gravel surface, a proven century-long track record, reliable waterproofing, and some fire resistance — making it a rugged commercial flat-roof choice.
Is built-up roofing better than TPO or EPDM?
Not universally — it depends on the building. BUR offers heavy-duty, redundant durability, while single-plies like TPO and EPDM are lighter, faster to install, and often reflective. The best choice depends on structure, budget, and goals.
How long does a built-up roof last?
A quality built-up roof, properly installed and maintained, can deliver a long service life. Regular inspections, clear drainage, and prompt repairs — plus a possible restoration coating later — help it reach its full lifespan.
How do I get a built-up roofing estimate?
Call Pete’s Builders at (307) 514-5489 to schedule an assessment and receive a written estimate for built-up or other commercial roofing.
Considering built-up roofing for your building?
Rugged, redundant, and proven — installed and maintained right by Pete’s Builders. Call (307) 514-5489 or visit 1816 Central Ave, Cheyenne, WY 82001 today.