Modified bitumen is a popular roofing choice. Before committing to a roofing option, learn the benefits of this modified roofing material.
The roof above your head may not be one that you spend a good deal of time thinking about. If you’re looking into getting it repaired or replaced, however, get ready to take a deep dive into a world of options you may not have known exists. While you can have a large variety of roofing materials that are visibly different (like shingles are different than metal are different than slate roofs), there are also materials that you might not recognize as being unique. Let’s take a look at modified bitumen to discover what it is and why it is such a popular roofing choice before you fully immerse yourself in all of the various roofing options for your upcoming home improvement project.
What Is It?
Unless you are part of the roofing industry, you may not even know what bitumen is. Bitumen is a byproduct of crude oil distillation (though it also can occur naturally) and the resulting material is a brown to black, usually viscous material that is used in multiple applications, including roadway asphalt when combined with mineral aggregates or as a sealant. Bitumen is similar to tar, but not exactly the same thing, but it is used in many of the same ways. This modified roofing material is created by reinforcing bitumen with fabric, polyester, fiberglass or a combination and forming it into thin, uniform sheets that are layered (sometimes with roofing felt) into membranes.
Available Types
Modified bitumen is used with asphalt to create a roofing layer. The two types of modified bitumen available for this application are Atactic Polypropylene (APP) and Styrene Butadiene Styrene (SBS). APP is a torch-applied thermoplastic polymer that gives the roofing asphalt characteristics similar to plastic. SBS can be applied with heat or adhesives and resembles the look and characteristics of rubber.
Benefits
This modified roofing material offers several benefits. The membranes are created from layers resulting in a strong roof that has a long lifespan. It is also easy to take care of and maintain. The material is very durable but also flexible and it is very resistant to leaking and other weather-induced stresses in both hot and cold climates. Modifies bitumen is a sustainable material as well. Finally, modified bitumen roofing is also very energy efficient, so you won’t have to worry about your energy costs.
For All of Your Contracting Needs, Call Jim Amos Contracting
Jim Amos Contracting has been serving the Anne Arundel County area for over 45 years. We apply our years of experience and expertise to every single job we do. We provide almost any home improvement service you can think of, from handyman services to complex home additions. Our business was built on our many return customers and their referrals, so we strive for 100% customer satisfaction. We will get every job done right the first time, on time, and within your budget. Give us a call at (410)-349-1700 or contact us through our website today. Jim Amos Contracting is looking forward to the chance to become your new favorite contractor!
