Tar and Gravel Roofs

Residential Roofing | Accent Roofing

Tar and Gravel Roofs

There are two main types of built up roofing systems.

Tar and gravel roofing systems offer flat roofing protection. For homes with flat roofs and tight budgets, a tar and gravel system is a cost effective choice. They can last up to thirty years with proper care and repair. 

Three to five layers of asphalt based sheets, hot tar, and roofing felt make up a tar and gravel roof. A layer of bitumen and extra mineral coating is added on top. Finally, light colored gravel is used to cover the dark layers. Gravel weighs down the roofing layers and protects against sun damage. The gravel also reflects some sunlight, helping keep the home or office energy efficient. Gravel should be kept on the roof at all times in an even layer. Loose gravel will help protect the roof from punctures. The asphalt layer of the tar and gravel roof is the waterproofing layer while the gravel extends the life of the roof. The gravel embedded into the roof can prevent cracks and blisters that eventually lead to leaks.

There are two main types of built up roofing systems. Modified bitumen roofs are a mix of asphalt and rubber covered with gravel. Ballast roofing consists of larger gravel over a single ply roofing system. When choosing a tar and gravel roof, it is important to talk to professionals in order to understand the options and choose the best type of roofing. Accent Roofing of Amarillo has the expertise to install the best tar and gravel roofing system for clients in West Texas. They understand the demands of the region’s extreme weather and can properly install a tar and gravel roof to ensure it lasts. 

For homes that currently have tar and gravel roofing systems, proper maintenance is a must. Accent Roofing of Amarillo can help. Regularly checking tar and gravel roofs will ensure they last. Reapplying gravel or strengthening built up layers will continue to weatherproof the roof. If the roofing system experiences damage, Accent Roofing can help with repairs. Repairs for tar and gravel roofing require patches. It can be difficult to remove the gravel and properly clean the area for a patch. Professional roofers have the tools to ensure the roofing is patched properly. Patches applied incorrectly can lead to further damage not only to the roof, but to the structure. As a tar and gravel roof ages, signs of aging may appear. They can include loose areas, depressions, cracks, discolorations, and blisters. Scheduled roofing inspections will help you know the roofing is nearing the end of its life and needs replaced. Regular maintenance will ensure the signs of aging are caught early, before damage can occur from a leaky roofing system. 

Overall, a tar and gravel roofing system can be very cost effective for a home or office with a flat roof. It offers protection from the elements and can be very energy efficient. Tar and gravel roofs typically last up to thirty years with proper maintenance. Accent Roofing of Amarillo can inspect, repair, or replace your tar and gravel roof. The professionals with Accent Roofing are dedicated to protecting each home and office. They are ready to meet all of your roofing needs.