Getting the low-slope roof system right on your commercial property will reward you with longevity, performance, and minimal maintenance. However, it’s not always easy to make the right choice. If you’re comparing roll roofing vs modified bitumen systems, we can help.
You simply need to compare these two popular commercial roofing options based on their durability, installation requirements, and long-term value. Anyone seeking full-service commercial roofing options for all roof systems will benefit from this comparison as an example of how to compare any two low-slope options.
Understanding Traditional Roll Roofing: Reliable Basic Barrier
Roll roofing is a basic asphalt-saturated material, usually a single-ply sheet that features a granular cap. It’s manufactured with a process similar to the one used for asphalt shingles, but the continuous sheet design makes it appropriate for use on low-slope roofs.
Typical Commercial Applications
It’s rarely used for serious commercial projects, but small outbuildings are sometimes covered in roll roofing to save on costs. You’ll also find it applied as a temporary measure or used to cover low-priority areas when there is an emergency or lack of budget.
Lifespan
One of the biggest limitations of this roofing option is its lifespan. The average lifespan of roll roofing is only 5 to 15 years on average. It’s rare to find a commercial product that can last 20 years or more. That means you could end up replacing the roof in just a few years, even if it was installed properly and maintained on a regular basis.
Upfront Cost
The one benefit of roll roofing comes from its low upfront cost. It’s quick to install and requires less skilled labor than modified bitumen and other low-slope roofing. However, that is balanced out by the short lifespan and high maintenance needs. Don’t underestimate the cost of regular replacement and extra inspections.
Long-Term Value
While the initial investment is low, the cost of repeated repairs and the short lifespan of the material lower its long-term value. You’ll generate more waste that ends up in the landfill and pay disposal costs each time roofers remove and replace the material.
Maintenance Requirements
Roll roofing maintenance is simple enough, with the need for quarterly inspections for debris and signs of damage to the sealed seams. The roofing needs sealing along the seams at least once every one to two years, increasing the cost of maintenance over the years.
The Modern Standard: Modified Bitumen Durability
Modified bitumen, or Mod Bit, roofing is also made with asphalt and a base sheet. However, it’s not the same as traditional roll roofing. The addition of polymers like SBS and APP transforms the material into a commercial roofing option that is far more durable. Modified bitumen roofing benefits include flexibility in cold temperatures and tear resistance, leading to a longer lifespan than you can expect from roll roofing.
Typical Commercial Applications
Modified bitumen is used for all kinds of low-slope commercial roofs, especially those in colder climates and with extreme variations in temperatures.
Lifespan
You can rely on modified bitumen durability, even when there are puncture risks from falling limbs, wind lifting from harsh storms, and other hazards. This means that Mod Bit roofs tend to last anywhere from 15 to 30 years with care.
Upfront Cost
It’s true that a Mod Bit roof will cost more to install at first. Yet you’ll find you’re spending far less on maintenance and getting many more years of use from it. You’ll even spend less on material disposal fees over the years thanks to the longer lifespan.
Long-Term Value
Comparing the modified bitumen vs roll roofing performance makes it clear that there’s greater long-term value in the Mod Bit option. Balancing out with lower repair and maintenance costs makes it worth investing in the higher upfront price.
Maintenance Requirements
One of the greatest modified bitumen roofing benefits is the reduced maintenance requirements for this material. It only needs cleaning and inspection twice a year and rarely needs any other coatings or sealing efforts to keep it intact.
Installation and Application Differences
It’s largely a question of complexity when it comes to roll roofing installation vs modified bitumen application. Roll roofing is simpler to install, but it’s prone to installation errors that lead to early failure. For example, it’s hard to detect if there are inadequate seam seals that allow water to seep under the surface.
Mod Bit roofs require skilled professional installation services with techniques like torch-applied adhesives, hot asphalt mopping, cold-applied adhesives, and self-adhered products. They all provide long-lasting and tightly sealed seams that need little further attention.
Modified bitumen roofs require professional expertise and careful techniques during installation, but they’ll provide a truly watertight system you can count on.
Lifespan, Maintenance, and Commercial ROI
When comparing roll roofing vs modified bitumen systems, keep in mind that the lifespan of roll roofing is a fraction of what you can expect from Mod Bit. Mod Bit is highly durable and requires less frequent maintenance, especially when you put modified bitumen maintenance tips into practice.
Modified bitumen may require a higher initial investment, but its reduced maintenance needs, greater durability against storm damage, and longer overall lifespan provide a better long-term commercial return on investment. The superior modified bitumen durability ultimately translates to fewer business interruptions as well.
Partnering with Experience: The Delta Innovative Services Advantage
Delta Innovative Services is your trusted partner for nationwide commercial roof repairs and replacement. We’re based in the Kansas City area and bring over 250 years of combined experience in commercial roof contracting and management to every project.
With standardized protocols and extensive know-how, we bring the same level of quality to both large and small jobs. We deliver a roofing system that is watertight and worry-free.
Each job is engineered to run efficiently and stay on schedule. We want to give you peace of mind, and it’s our focus to tackle the challenges of commercial roofing so you don’t have to deal with them.
Responsive Service and Conclusion
There’s a clear winner in the debate between roll roofing vs modified bitumen systems. The superior durability and performance of modified bitumen make it the clear choice for long-term use.
Choose Delta Innovative Services when commercial roof issues arrive. We can almost always have someone out within 24 hours and provide a clear proposal within 48 hours. If you’re planning a roof repair or replacement to maintain your building, contact Delta Innovative Services for an expert assessment and proposal tailored to your long-term commercial needs.