Built-up roofing ("B.U.R.") has long been considered the traditional roofing material in the United States. It enjoys a long and illustrious track record of success. The multi-ply configuration provides additional layers of protection against moisture penetration along with somewhat of a self-sealing property during warm weather. In a B.U.R., the felts act as reinforcement for the thin layers of waterproofing bitumen (asphalt or coal tar pitch). The system is typically surfaced with aggregate (typically pea-gravel) set in a flood coat of bitumen for purposes of ultra violet ray, severe weather, and impact protection. Many non-aggregate systems are used as temporary roofs to allow other work to take place prior to the installation of the completed system. Some smooth systems are also coated.

B.U.R. systems are durable, long lasting, and relatively resistant to construction and post construction traffic. They are appropriate for both new and replacement roofing.

Olsson installs a number of quality B.U.R. systems annually, and for years we have been one of the largest and most experienced B.U.R. contractors in the Chicago metropolitan area.