Gravel Ballasted Roofs

The gravel in a ballasted roof helps absorb heat preventing the sun from heating the roof materials below and making the roof more energy efficient.

Gravel ballasted roofs.

A built up roof for example will typically include the built up membrane itself with or without gravel as well as some kind of insulation and cover board which will vary in thickness from roof to roof. When it comes to estimating the weight of an existing roof field verification of the in place construction is necessary. The gravel used in built up roofing what the roofing contractors were used to was not the same as that used in a ballasted roof. Holes mean roof leaks and roof leaks mean call the roofer.

Ballasted roof systems have been installed since the early 1970 s. Gravel ballasted roofs with sikaplan or sarnafil single ply membranes are conventionally installed. The stones used in ballasted roofing are generally 1 5 2 5 inches in diameter and applied in a thicker layer. Somebody walking on the roof will undoubtedly step on the ballast and put a hole in the membrane.

Once completed the epdm membrane is held in place using one of the following materials as ballast with a minimum weight of 50 kg m. The buildup is ballasted with a gravel layer of at least 50 mm and 80 kg m 2. The single ply membrane and other roof components including thermal insulation are loose laid. Despite the positive qualities associated with a ballasted roof system there are some challenges.

It is very important to note that the amount of gravel being applied to a roof must be precise it depends on the specific roofing spec being used and the building type. Some commercial single ply roofs are ballasted with gravel this report does not apply to these gravel roof advantages most gravel roofs are inexpensive to build offer some protection to vulnerable asphalt against uv damage and the stones are very durable. On the other hand ballast roofing might be the right choice for your commercial property if you live somewhere with a ready source of ballast rocks gravel of the appropriate size and you prefer the aesthetic look and texture of the larger stones. However other ballasted systems use pavers which are easier to walk on and can be.

They are known for their installation speed and pleasing aesthetics. Most ballasted roof systems use gravel stone that is similar to what would be used in landscaping. Magazine and roofing southwest although single ply roofs inherently have sun protective qualities ballast provides an extra layer of protection from uv rays. Ballasted roof systems are simultaneously a roofer s best friend and arch nemesis.

For built up roofing the gravel was generally 25 5 inches in diameter. Too much gravel can result in a structural issue due to weight. Simply put a ballasted roof is easy to install and basically guaranteed maintenance work for a roofer.