BUR: Built Up Roofing

Premier Exteriors provides professional built-up roofing (BUR) services in Omaha, delivering durable and cost-effective solutions for flat and low-slope roofs. With multiple reinforced layers sealed with asphalt or coal tar, BUR systems are designed to handle Nebraska’s extreme weather while offering long-lasting protection for commercial and residential properties.

What Is Built-Up Roofing (BUR)?

Built-up roofing, commonly known as BUR, is one of the most reliable materials for flat and low-slope roofs. Used for over 100 years, BUR systems are created by layering reinforced fabric sheets, called plies, and bonding them together with bitumen. The more plies a system has, the stronger and longer-lasting the roof will be.

Why It Matters in Omaha

Because Nebraska weather can be extremely hot in the summer, freezing in the winter, with hail and high winds, roofers in Omaha often recommend BUR systems with a higher number of plies for maximum durability.

Types of Built-Up Roofing

The main difference between BUR systems comes down to the type of binding agent used:

Coal Tar BUR
- Extremely durable and resistant to harsh weather
- Long-lasting option, ideal for Omaha’s unpredictable climate
- May be restricted by environmental regulations
Asphalt BUR
- More affordable than coal tar
- Still strong and reliable, though slightly less durable
- Widely available but also subject to environmental restrictions

How Built-Up Roofing Is Installed

Professional roofers follow a step-by-step process to ensure BUR systems are watertight and long-lasting:

Waterproofing layer applied directly to the roof deck.
Two layers of rubber membrane or building paper are nailed down for added protection.
Multiple plies of fiberglass or roofing felt, each bonded with coal tar or asphalt.
Final protective coating, typically gravel or a clear glaze, to shield the roof from UV rays and impact damage.+\\\

Typical BUR systems include 3 to 5 plies, though in Omaha, additional plies are often recommended to handle severe weather.

Drawbacks of Built-Up Roofing

Like any roofing system, BUR has limitations that homeowners should consider:

UV Sensitivity – Prolonged sun exposure can cause cracks in the material, especially in areas like Omaha
Installation Odor – Strong smell during installation due to bitumen and adhesives
Weight – Heavier than other roofing systems, may require structural support

Is BUR Roofing Right for You?

While many roofers today are replacing old BUR systems with modern alternatives, some property owners still choose BUR for its durability and cost-effectiveness. If you are considering a roof for a flat or low-slope structure in Omaha such as a warehouse, office building, or commercial facility built-up roofing remains a proven option.

Try Our Roof Visualizer Tool

Explore our interactive roof visualizer to preview how your home will look with a brand-new roof. Experiment with a wide range of shingle colors, patterns, and house color combinations so you can make confident, informed choices before the work begins.

Contact Premier Exteriors for Built-Up Roofing in Omaha

Thinking about installing or replacing a built-up roof? Premier Exteriors has decades of experience with BUR roofing in Omaha and surrounding Nebraska communities. Call 402-679-6000 or fill out our online form for a free estimate. Our roofing experts will help you choose the best system for your property.

Built Up Roofing