BUR Roofing in Orangeburg SC: Complete Guide
Built-Up Roofing (BUR) — also called "tar and gravel" roofing — is one of the oldest and most reliable flat roof systems in the industry. For commercial and residential flat roofs in Orangeburg SC, BUR offers exceptional waterproofing, durability, and fire resistance. This guide covers everything Orangeburg homeowners and property managers need to know about BUR roofing, from costs to installation to maintenance.
If you have a flat roof on your Orangeburg home, commercial building, or agricultural structure, built-up roofing may be the most cost-effective long-term solution. Unlike single-ply membranes that can puncture or peel, BUR is built up layer by layer — typically 3 to 5 plies of asphalt and reinforcing felts — creating a monolithic, leak-resistant surface.
What Is BUR Roofing?
Built-Up Roofing (BUR) is a multi-layer roofing system made from alternating layers of bitumen (asphalt or coal tar) and reinforcing fabrics (fiberglass or polyester felts). The top layer is typically covered with gravel, slag, or a reflective coating for UV and weather protection. This multi-ply construction creates a thick, durable membrane that can last 20 to 30 years with proper maintenance.
BUR has been the standard flat roofing solution for over a century and remains widely used throughout South Carolina, particularly on commercial buildings, apartment complexes, schools, and older homes with flat roof sections.
BUR Roofing Cost in Orangeburg SC
The cost of BUR roofing in Orangeburg SC typically ranges from $4.50 to $8.00 per square foot installed, depending on the number of plies, the type of bitumen used, and the condition of the existing roof deck. For an average 2,000 sq ft flat roof, expect to pay between $9,000 and $16,000.
Factors that affect BUR roofing costs in Orangeburg include:
- Number of plies — 3-ply systems cost less than 4 or 5-ply systems
- Roof deck condition — damaged decking adds to replacement costs
- Accessibility — roofs with steep slopes or limited access require more labor
- Existing roof removal — tear-off of old roofing adds $1-2 per sq ft
- Insulation upgrade — adding or replacing insulation underneath the BUR system
Call (803) 855-1850 for a free BUR roofing estimate in Orangeburg SC.
BUR Roofing vs Modified Bitumen vs Single-Ply (EPDM/TPO)
| Feature | BUR (Built-Up) | Modified Bitumen | EPDM/TPO (Single-Ply) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lifespan | 20-30 years | 15-25 years | 15-25 years |
| Cost/sq ft | $4.50-8.00 | $5.00-9.00 | $6.00-12.00 |
| Maintenance | Low (annual inspection) | Low to moderate | Moderate (seams need checking) |
| Durability | Excellent (impact/fire resistant) | Good | Good (can puncture) |
| Repair ease | Easy (spot repairs) | Moderate | Moderate (patch kits) |
| Best for | Commercial, flat roofs | Low-slope roofs | Large low-slope areas |
Advantages of BUR Roofing in South Carolina
South Carolina's hot, humid climate and frequent storms make BUR roofing an excellent choice for flat roofs in the Orangeburg area:
- Superior waterproofing — Multiple plies mean redundant protection against leaks, critical during SC's heavy thunderstorms and hurricane seasons.
- Fire resistance — BUR systems with gravel surfacing achieve Class A fire ratings, an important consideration for commercial properties.
- Excellent UV protection — The gravel or reflective coating layer protects the underlying asphalt from SC's intense sun.
- Hail and impact resistance — The thick multi-ply construction and gravel surface absorb impact better than single-ply membranes.
- Proven longevity — With proper installation and maintenance, BUR roofs in SC can last 25-30 years.
- Energy reflective options — White reflective coatings can reduce cooling costs during Orangeburg's hot summers.
BUR Roofing Installation Process
- Inspection and preparation — We assess the roof deck, replace damaged sections, and ensure proper drainage slopes.
- Insulation layer — Rigid insulation boards are installed for thermal efficiency and to create a smooth surface.
- First ply — A base layer of bitumen and reinforcing felt is applied to the prepared surface.
- Subsequent plies — 2-4 additional layers of bitumen and felt are applied, each bonded to the previous layer.
- Surfacing — The top layer is covered with gravel, slag, or a reflective coating for UV and weather protection.
- Flashing and edges — All edges, penetrations, and transitions are sealed with metal flashing and additional bitumen.
- Final inspection — A comprehensive quality check ensures all layers are properly bonded and sealed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does BUR stand for in roofing?
BUR stands for Built-Up Roofing. It's a traditional flat roofing system made of alternating layers of bitumen (asphalt or coal tar) and reinforcing felts, topped with gravel or a reflective coating for protection.
How long does a BUR roof last in Orangeburg SC?
A properly installed BUR roof in Orangeburg SC typically lasts 20 to 30 years. With regular maintenance, timely repairs, and good drainage, some BUR roofs exceed 30 years in South Carolina's climate.
Is BUR roofing good for flat roofs in South Carolina?
Yes. BUR is an excellent choice for flat roofs in SC because the multi-ply construction provides superior waterproofing against our heavy rains, the gravel surface protects against UV damage and hail, and the system's thermal mass helps regulate building temperatures in our hot summers.
Can BUR roofing be repaired?
Yes, BUR roofs are relatively easy to repair. Small blisters, punctures, or splits can be patched by cutting out the damaged area, applying new bitumen and felt layers, and re-surfacing. Regular inspections after storms help catch damage early before it leads to leaks.
How much does BUR roofing cost compared to other flat roof systems?
BUR roofing costs $4.50-8.00 per sq ft installed, making it one of the most affordable flat roof options. It's generally less expensive than EPDM ($6-12/sq ft) and comparable to modified bitumen ($5-9/sq ft), while offering superior durability and lifespan.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does rubber slate roofing cost?
Rubber slate roofing costs $7-12 per square foot installed, or about $14,000-24,000 for an average 2,000 sq ft home. This is roughly half the cost of natural slate and comparable to premium architectural shingles.
How long does rubber slate roofing last?
Most rubber slate products come with 50-year warranties and can last 50+ years with proper installation. The material is highly resistant to UV degradation, impact, and thermal cycling.
Is rubber slate roofing good for South Carolina?
Yes. Rubber slate handles SC's heat, humidity, and storms well. It has a Class 4 impact rating (best for hail), resists algae growth common in humid climates, and the lightweight profile means no structural reinforcement needed.
Can rubber slate be installed over existing shingles?
In most cases, yes. Because rubber slate is lightweight, it can often be installed over a single layer of existing asphalt shingles, saving on tear-off costs. Dubya Roofing will evaluate your roof during a free estimate.