Built-Up Roofing (BUR) Systems in Houston, TX

Multi-Layer Protection | Hot & Cold Applied | Gravel Surface | Time-Tested

Free Estimates
24/7 Emergency
10-Year Warranty
Licensed & Insured

Commercial Built-Up Roofing (BUR) in Houston

Built-Up Roofing (BUR) is the original flat roofing system, with over 100 years of proven performance. Multiple layers of bitumen and reinforcing fabrics create an extremely durable, waterproof membrane. Tell Project installs both hot-applied and cold-applied BUR systems for Houston commercial properties.

What's Included:

  • Multiple reinforced layers
  • Excellent waterproofing
  • UV-resistant gravel surface
  • Fire-resistant construction
  • Proven 100+ year track record
  • Ideal for heavy foot traffic
Get Your Free Estimate

Our Built-Up Roofing (BUR) Process

Professional, transparent service from start to finish

1

Evaluation

Assess building structure and determine optimal BUR system configuration.

2

Deck Prep

Clean and prime the roof deck for proper adhesion.

3

Layer Application

Apply alternating layers of bitumen and reinforcing fabric.

4

Surface Finish

Apply gravel, mineral cap sheet, or reflective coating.

5

Inspection

Quality check all seams, edges, and penetrations.

Built-Up Roofing (BUR) Pricing in Houston

Transparent pricing with no hidden fees

3-Ply System

$4 - $7/sq ft

Standard commercial

Get Quote

Modified BUR

$6 - $10/sq ft

Premium hybrid system

Get Quote

* Prices are estimates. Final pricing depends on project specifics. Call for your free detailed estimate.

Why Choose Tell Project for Built-Up Roofing (BUR)

Houston's trusted roofing professionals

🏆

15+ Years Experience

Over 15 years serving Houston with thousands of successful roofing projects completed.

4.9 Star Rating

247+ verified customer reviews. A+ BBB accreditation. Top-rated on Google.

Licensed & Insured

Fully licensed Texas contractor with comprehensive liability and workers' comp insurance.

🛡️

10-Year Warranty

Industry-leading workmanship warranty plus manufacturer material warranties.

💰

Transparent Pricing

Detailed written estimates with no hidden fees. Flexible financing available.

Fast Response

24/7 emergency service. Most projects start within 1-2 weeks of approval.

BUR System Design for Houston Conditions

Multi-layer protection engineered for Texas commercial buildings

Built-up roofing has been the standard for commercial flat roofs for over a century. Modern BUR systems use advanced materials while retaining the proven multi-layer design:

  • Multiple waterproofing layers: 3-5 alternating layers of bitumen and reinforcing fabric create redundant waterproofing — if one layer is compromised, others continue protecting
  • Gravel surfacing: Traditional gravel-surfaced BUR provides excellent UV protection, fire resistance, and resistance to foot traffic
  • Modified bitumen cap sheet: Modern BUR systems often use a modified bitumen top layer for enhanced flexibility and weather resistance
  • Superior traffic resistance: BUR handles regular foot traffic better than single-ply membranes — ideal for rooftops with heavy HVAC equipment requiring regular maintenance access
  • Time-tested reliability: BUR's track record spans 100+ years. The system is well-understood by contractors and building owners alike, with predictable performance and maintenance needs

We typically recommend BUR for commercial buildings requiring high traffic resistance, those with heavy rooftop equipment, or where proven long-term reliability is the priority over installation speed.

BUR vs. Single-Ply: Making the Right Choice

Built-up roofing remains the preferred system for Houston commercial properties facing heavy foot traffic, rooftop equipment, and ponding water. While single-ply membranes like TPO and EPDM offer faster installation, BUR systems provide superior puncture resistance and a proven 30+ year track record in Gulf Coast conditions. Our estimators will assess your building's specific needs — including HVAC equipment layout, drainage patterns, and foot traffic frequency — to recommend the most cost-effective system for your situation.

As a certified installer for Johns Manville, Firestone, and GAF commercial systems, Tell Project Roofing Contractors provides manufacturer-backed warranties on every BUR installation — giving Houston building owners the long-term protection their investment demands.

Frequently Asked Questions

Expert answers about built-up roofing (bur) in Houston

Is BUR still a good choice for commercial buildings? +

Absolutely. BUR's multi-layer design provides exceptional waterproofing and durability. It's especially good for buildings with heavy rooftop equipment and foot traffic.

How long does a BUR roof last? +

A properly installed BUR system lasts 15-25 years in Houston. With regular maintenance and timely repairs, some systems exceed 30 years.

What are the pros and cons of BUR? +

Pros: excellent waterproofing, fire resistant, handles foot traffic well. Cons: heavier weight, longer installation time, hot-applied systems produce fumes during installation.

Can BUR be repaired easily? +

Yes. BUR systems are relatively easy to patch and repair. Damaged areas can be cut out and patched with new layers.

Is BUR energy efficient? +

Standard BUR with gravel absorbs heat. Adding a reflective coating or white cap sheet significantly improves energy efficiency.

Ready for Expert Built-Up Roofing (BUR)?

Get your free, no-obligation estimate today!

Free inspections | 24/7 emergency service | Flexible financing available

Roofing Resources & Guides

Flat Roof Design
Roofing Materials Guide
Traditional Roofing Design
Water Damage Restoration