What is Hot Mop Roofing?
In the past, most commercial buildings and other flat-top structures including homes, were topped with tar and gravel roofing. It’s also called hot mop roofing or built-up roofing, because of the techniques used. A traditional form of waterproofing that involves applying hot asphalt and roofing felt, this roof is actually an arrangement of various layers of felt and asphalt finally topped off with a layer of gravel.
This may sound simple, but there many different—possibly hundreds—of variations of built-up and hot-mop roofing. Our Dallas roofers choose the base sheet, interplay sheets, rock and/or cap-sheets and the surfacing materials based on the unique roofing needs of the clients we are serving.
Hot Mop Roof Materials
The hot mop roofing process combines several key materials, each contributing distinct advantages to the finished roof:
- Asphalt or Tar: Acts as the primary waterproofing layer. When heated, it becomes malleable, allowing for easy application over irregular surfaces, effectively sealing around protrusions.
- Roofing Felt: Serves as a reinforcement layer. This fabric is embedded into the hot asphalt, providing a secondary barrier against water and increasing the roof’s structural integrity.
- Fiberglass Membrane: Enhances durability. Positioned between layers of asphalt, it helps prevent cracks and tears, extending the life of the roof.
- Gravel (optional): Often used as a top layer on some hot mop roofs, it provides additional protection against sun and weather damage, while also aiding water drainage.
Together, these materials create a robust and reliable roofing system, adept at protecting structures from water damage and the elements.
How Long Does a Hot Mop Roof Last?
A hot mop roof offers a lifespan typically ranging from 15 to 20 years when properly installed and maintained. The durability of a hot mop roof can be influenced by various factors, including the quality of materials used, the precision of the application process, and the climate in which the property is located. Regular maintenance plays a crucial role in extending the life of a hot mop roof, helping to prevent leaks and other wear-related issues. However, it’s important to note that the life expectancy can vary significantly based on these conditions.
The Advantages of Hot Mop Roofing
No Need for a Complete Tear-Off
This is perhaps one of the biggest advantages for commercial buildings in need of quick, affordable and dependable re-roofing service. A hot mop roof may easily be installed over existing roof as long as the weight is not too much for the structure. This means huge potential for savings on the roofing job.
Affordable and Dependable
A hot mop roof is easy to look after and maintain. And while it may need extensive repairs around the 20 year mark, it is still exceptionally appealing for anyone looking to save money on roofing now, without compromising on the end-result.
Quick Installation
The hot mop roof/built up roof installation job can be completed within 2 to 4 days, depending on the size of the roof and the number of installer we’ve put on the job. This is great news, especially because the average tile roof will take anywhere between a week to up to 10 days to be completely installed.
Ability to Cover Unusually Shaped Roofs
The melted asphalt can easily be mopped over a variety of shapes. Our technicians can go around chimneys and AC units with ease when installing BUR. We can also adjust the fiberglass and felt, cutting it according to the shape and slope of your roofing.
The Last Word: Hot Mop Roofing is Not a DIY Job!
A leak-free BUR mandates proper selection of roofing materials. We take into account the climate and slope before finalizing on the products that’ll need to be used. Our roofing installers also pay attention to the flashings and penetrations while carrying out the job.
Give us a call at (972) 284-1655 to learn more about this and other commercial roofing services in Mansfield, TX and surrounding areas!