Common Tar and Gravel Roof Problems

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Get Solutions For Common Roof Problems Associated With Built Up Roofing

Tar and gravel roofs, commonly called built-up roofs, are on many commercial buildings. For some time it was a very popular option for buildings with a large, flat roof. Today there are more roofing materials to choose from, so building owners have to carefully weigh the pros and cons of each.

The tar and gravel roofing technique has been around for decades, but there are some common problems associated with built up roofs that can be a significant drawback. You'll want to discuss common issues with a roofing contractor to figure out how likely they are to occur on your roof and how problems can be prevented.

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Common Problems With Tar and Gravel Roofs

A flat roofing system can be more complex than a pitched roof. Everything must be installed just right and maintained well or roof leaks could quickly form on the flat surface. However, that isn't the only thing to watch out for with a tar and gravel roof. There are a number of common problems that you may experience with a tar and gravel roofing system.

Cracking
As the tar ages it will become more brittle and likely to crack. These cracks leave the deeper layers exposed to moisture and leaks can form.

Shrinking
Shrinkage is another common issue with tar and gravel roof systems that can occur as the material ages. It's also a bigger issue in areas that experience swings in the temperature. Shrinkage is the result of the material losing its elasticity. This happens over time, but the process can be accelerated if the roofing material is installed incorrectly or is exposed to the elements.
When the roofing materials shrink it often has a domino effect. The contraction of the materials can pull at the flashing. The loosened flashing can then cause roof leaks to form.

Loose Gravel and Roofing Materials
The gravel that creates the protective barrier of a built up roof can come loose over time. With the gravel gone the tar underlying layer is exposed to UV rays and moisture.

Water Pooling
Built up roofing systems are often used for structures with a low slope or flat roofing system. Just as with TPO and EPDM, if the material isn't installed properly it can easily cause the roof surface to be uneven. Even slight dips and grooves allow water to pool and increase the likelihood of a leak. Adding to the issue is the fact that built up roofs are among the most complex to install.

Heavy Weight
Unlike single ply flat roofs, built up roofs are made of layers of material. Usually there are 3-5 layers that alternate between asphalt and either asphalt-embedded felt or fiberglass. If it gets layered on too much the weight of the materials can cause a strain on the roofing and structural system.

Fixing and Preventing Problems With Tar and Gravel Roofing Systems

If you are going to get the longest lifespan out of your tar and gravel roof, the issues above have to be dealt with in a timely manner, or even better, prevented all together. Even though you can't stop materials from aging, you can impact how they age over time.

Roof Inspections and Maintenance

The best way to avoid roof repair is regular roof inspections and maintenance. Flat roof systems need regular monitoring to watch out for water pooling that may not be obvious from the ground level. You also need to get an up-close look to see how well the top layer of gravel is holding up.

Be Careful With Roof Repairs

The unique challenge with built up roofing is the weight. You can't just add on another layer when repairs are needed, and that often isn't the best option anyhow. Today, there is spray foam and silicon roof coating that can be used rather than re-saturating the roof with more gravel.

Work With a Qualified Roofing Contractor

Because tar and gravel roofs are more complex than other types of roofing systems, it's crucial that any roofer you work with be highly experienced at working with the material. The layers of the roofing material can make repairs a challenge.

LOA is a roofing contractor that's experienced in replacing, installing, repairing and maintaining built up roofs. Give us a call at 512-375-3654 if you own a building in the Austin, TX area that's in need of our roofing solutions.

Why Our Customers Think
LOA is the Best Austin Roofing Contractor

Working with Kevin from LOA was a great experience! I needed my roof immediately! My insurance company was trying to non renew simply due to the age of my home. They gave me no time. Kevin and the LOA team worked so quickly and had my roof installed the next day. They were very professional, did a great job cleaning up after and picking up most all the nails. Highly recommended!

— Alicia Donovan

I highly recommend working with LOA Construction. I shopped around before picking a roofing company and LOA provided the best overall responsiveness and price. Cameron Smith and his team were helpful and communicative leading up to, during, and after the job. The roof looks great and I'm confident in the workmanship. LOA also performed repairs and house painting, both of which we are very pleased with.

— Chris Farrow

LOA Construction has exceeded my expectations again. This is the second roof installation with them and I couldn't be happier. Specifically, Tyler Griffiths is professional, attentive, and made the entire process of working with my insurance company effortless. My tenant sent a glowing account of their experience as well. Knowing it was a rental, they still diligently protected all property and plants. They were on time every time and went out of their way to not inconvenience the residents. LOA Construction has integrity and takes pride in their work. I couldn't recommend them more.

— Sheri Moran

I worked with Andrew, from start to finish, it was a pleasure. Communication is the key, Hey explained everything in detail, even kept our driveway clear when supplies we delivered. As promised, for the roof crew showed up about 7am job was completed expertly after 2pm. The Best, Definitely Recommend Loa Construction.

— Tize Peters

From the very start, I knew I was in good hands. The professionalism was top-notch, but most important, was the caring attitude of the project manager, Dan Harvey, the roofing supervisor, Ambrocio, and the roofing crew. They made sure every detail was covered. They are definitely an asset to LOA Construction. I highly recommend them. Dennis and Suzy S

— Dennis Sanger

Andrew was very great at getting myself and my wife all the information and getting us started from start to completion. His workers were friendly and professional. If ever I had to contact him, he was quick to respond back. We are very happy with the finished product. Yes, I would and have recommended him and his company to get their work by LOA Construction and Austin. Andrew made sure my wife would be satisfied with whatever roof she liked. Can't thank you enough Andrew and LOA Construction.

— Paul Coleman

As a first time home owner with no experience in how to make claims and start the process of getting a new roof I was scared to the point of avoiding what needed to get done after the bad hail storm. August Walker did an amazing job walking me through each step along the way. He answered all my questions and calmed my concerns. They inspected my roof and drove from Austin to Belton just to be there with the ins inspector, and followed up with me in person after the roof was installed. He also made a special trip back to drop off samples! I’m grateful to August and LOA construction for being highly professional and friendly!

— Angela Baker

From start to finish Lee and his team took great care of us. He made us feel comfortable during the process and answered any and all questions we had. I would definitely them recommend to anyone.

— Taneisha Jones

Arthur Harris and his team with LOA Construction did an excellent job on our roof. They finished it in one day. Arthur was very good in explaining all the information to us.

— Crystal Hill

Will, has been so awesome and easy to work with he gets everything we want done the way we want it and also keeps us updated as we are over the road truck drivers !!! Hands down to LOA Construction for their great service and great customer service !!!

— Tanya Dudkiewicz

Dan Harvey is Very Knowledgeable and directed me straight to the products that will save us money in the next 3 years the savings on energy costs alone will pay for the installation itself. I highly recommend LOA Construction and Dan Harvey! Actual Customer Jefferson Fara

— Jefferson Fara

Mark from LOA roofing was very professional from the git, the initial estimate process, he quickly identified all the issues that needed to be addressed. The company was very prompt, to coordinate the crew, and for a very reasonable price, got my roof repaired without any hassle. They also took care of all the cleaning, so that it all looked like nothing happened. I would recommend Mark from LOA to anyone needing a roof repair, with no kind of hesitation.

— Ale León

Loa Construction provides quality services in installing roof and related repairs. I’ll recommend it to my friends and family.

— Peijie Li

Thanks to Landon Wells of LOA Construction for the beautiful new roof! It was all completed in one day including a meticulous clean up job afterwards. The workers were all polite and professional. Landon made sure everything went smoothly and that all of our questions were answered. I am thrilled with our new roof. I would definitely recommend Landon and LOA Construction to all of my friends and family. Thank you Landon!

— Renee Johnson

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Dedicated to excellence, our Austin roofing company ensures quality in every project. Contact our skilled Central Texas roofers for a same-day, hassle-free inspection. Call +1 (512) 375-3654 to book your free inspection.