You see them all the time – commercial office buildings, restaurants, and condos with flat roofs. Maybe you have considered such a building for your business venture. If you are building or purchasing a commercial building with a flat roof, modified bitumen for your roofing material is the way to go. Modified bitumen (or mod bit) is a popular choice for flat commercial roofs.
Modified bitumen is a perfect choice for flat commercial roofs. They provide a waterproof barrier, protecting the interior of your building. They are easy to maintain and repair. They are durable and long-lasting. They are energy-efficient and eco-friendly. Overall, modified bitumen is a great roofing material for commercial buildings.
There are a variety of roofing materials available for both residential and commercial properties. At Seal Tight Roofing Experts, we are trained to install many different types of roofs. We are happy to guide you to the best roof to meet your roofing needs. In the case of commercial buildings with flat roofs, we highly recommend choosing modified bitumen. This article will explain the top 4 reasons to choose mod bit for your commercial roof.
What is a Modified Bitumen Roof?
Before diving into the top 4 reasons to choose a modified bitumen roof, we want to explain what it is! A modified bitumen roof, or mod bit roof, is a multi-layered, flat roof. A mod bit roof consists of an asphalt emulsion basecoat, a polyester/fiberglass reinforcing fabric, a base coat, and a top coat. It is rolled out and overlapped to prevent seams. It is usually heat-welded.
#1 Waterproof
Central Florida gets an average of approximately 50 inches of rain per year. That’s right…over 4 feet of rain per year. During a year with more tropical storms or hurricanes, that number can easily increase. You can see why being waterproof is one of the top reasons to choose mod bit for your flat roof! Water cannot be ignored in Florida – it’s everywhere and falls from the sky frequently! Mod bit roofs do not have seams which is one of the easiest places for leaks to form. Without this point of entry, your building will be protected from dreaded roof leaks! Roof leaks often cause interior damage to a building, so you are not just repairing the roof but other damage, as well. The waterproof feature of mod bit roofs can save you from the inconvenience and expense of a roof leak.
#2 Easy to Maintain
In the event of any damage to your roof, mod bit roofs are easy and inexpensive to repair. Your mod bit roof should easily last you 20 years and if maintained and repaired as needed, it can last even longer.
#3 Durable
Mod bit roofs are flexible which lends to their durability. They are quite resistant to tears and punctures making repairs an infrequent occurrence. They have excellent impact resistance which can be important during high winds. Central Florida often experiences high winds during hurricane season. Heavy and damaging debris can become airborne, but the impact resistance of these roofs will protect them from damage. They are also resistant to extreme temperature changes which makes them perfect for the high heat and humidity of Central Florida.
#4 Energy-Efficient and Eco-Friendly
We grouped these together because they are both good for the environment. The energy efficiency of mod bit due to UV protection may allow you to use your A/C and heater less. This, in turn, benefits you by having a lower energy bill! Mod bit roofing materials can be recycled and reused for other purposes. Instead of ending up in a landfill, they can have a whole second life making them a great, eco-friendly roof choice.
What Are the Downsides to a Mod Bit Roof?
While this article focuses on the benefits of a mod bit roof, it is common sense to know that no roof is perfect. No matter what type you choose for your home or commercial building, it will have pros and cons.
For lack of a more technical term, when a mod bit roof is being installed, it can be stinky. If you are having the roof of an existing building re-done, as opposed to a vacant, new building, then we suggest not having anyone at work that day. The smell can be a bit overwhelming during the installation process.
Because mod bit roofs are installed on flat roofs, you will need to be cautious of standing water, aka puddles, on the roof. We recommend a yearly roof inspection for all roofs. Mod bit roofs are easy to maintain and repair, so an annual inspection will keep you on top of any necessary maintenance to extend the life of your roof. The pros outweigh the cons, and we believe you will be very happy with your new modified bitumen flat roof!
Summary
Modified bitumen roofs are a great choice for flat-roofed commercial buildings. They are waterproof, easy to maintain and repair, durable, energy-efficient, and eco-friendly. Whether you are looking to roof a new construction project, reroof your home, or have a new roof installed on a home or commercial building, Seal Tight Roofing Experts is your Central Florida premier roofing company! We are located in Merritt Island FL, near Melbourne FL. We offer all roofing services for residential and commercial roofing. Whatever your roofing needs, Seal Tight Roofing Experts has got you and your roof covered!
