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Asphalt roofing solutions

What are asphalt roofing solutions and why are they trusted roofing solutions?

Asphalt is one of the oldest roofing technologies still in use today and it is a reliable solution for both residential and commercial roofing needs. Asphalt roofing uses asphalt as a waterproofing membrane.

Commercial asphalt roofing systems consist of two or more waterproofing layers. This redundancy provides building owners with durable waterproofing protection. 

Asphaltic roofing installation methods

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Asphaltic Roofing 101 Playlist from GAF Commercial

Asphaltic Commercial Roofing 101

Proven historical performance. Time tested durability. Asphaltic roofing products are a go-to material of choice for high end low-slope buildings. Learn more about asphaltic technologies and application techniques, as well as how to decide if asphaltic is the right roofing solution for your next project.
asphaltic membranes chart

Comparing asphaltic roofing techniques

A great benefit of roofing with asphalt is the variety of technology and installation methods that are available.

1 See the applicable manual for installation temperature instructions and ranges at https://www.gaf.com/document-library. 

2 GAF warranties and guarantees do not cover leaks or other damage due to wind speeds in excess of 55 miles per hour (unless additional wind coverage is purchased on eligible jobs). Refer to gaf.com for more information on warranty and guarantee coverage and restrictions.

3 GAF warranties and guarantees do not provide coverage against punctures (unless additional puncture resistance coverage is purchased on eligible jobs). Refer to gaf.com for more information on warranty and guarantee coverage and restrictions.

4 Require the use of RUBEROID® "EnergyCap™" Products.

5 See the applicable manual for installation at https://www.gaf.com/document-library. See applicable warranty or guarantee for complete coverage restrictions.

Where and when to use the different types of asphalt roofs

Roofs of essential buildings that need to stay open and operational at all times.
BUR is a solution that has been used for over 100 years. The redundant applications allow for increased protection against damage and leaks.

Roofs that need the reliability of a redundant asphaltic system without the odor and labor required for hot mopping. APP sheets are also used to recover existing roof systems.
APP is often used in smaller commercial roofing jobs, especially in urban areas. APP sheets are torched on to the surface below, therefore there is no need for a kettle, buckets or the inconvenience of getting asphalt onto the roof. In addition, APP systems typically consist of fewer plies than BUR jobs, allowing them to be installed faster and with a smaller labor force. Switching from a hot mopped application to a torch application will also reduce the odor around the work location allowing for more comfortable conditions for the workers and building occupants. A CERTA (Certified Roofing Torch Applicator) certification is required for a roofer to use a torch.

APP membranes are classified by ASTM numbers, types and grades.
ASTM D6222 – APP sheet using polyester reinforcement
ASTM D6223 – APP sheet using both polyester and glass fiber reinforcement

ASTM D6222 and D6223 have two type classifications, Type I and Type II. Typically Type II will have a larger mass and higher physical properties than Type I. There are two grades of APP sheet:
Grade S: the sheet has a smooth surface
Grade G: the sheet has a granule surface
ASTM number, type and grade are specified by the architect in most cases.

For roofs requiring the reliability of asphalt with more flexible application methods and labor availability. Introduced in the 1970’s, SBS features asphalt that has been modified (thus called modified bitumen) with the polymeric material SBS.
Like APP, SBS can also be applied utilizing a torch (heat-welding). A CERTA (Certified Roofing Torch Applicator) certification is required for a roofer to use a torch. Many local ordinances also restrict the use of torches on roofs due to their risk as a potential fire hazard. Unlike APP, SBS can be applied in a variety of other ways including hot-mopped, cold-applied or self-adhered. Cold-applied applications are popular because they don't produce as much odor as hot-mopped and do not require professional certifications like torching. Self-adhered is also a popular method because there is virtually no odor and it is typically faster to install.

SBS membranes are classified by ASTM numbers, types and grades:
ASTM D6162: SBS sheet using a combination of both polyester and glass fiber
ASTM D6163: SBS sheet using glass fiber reinforcement
ASTM D6164: SBS sheet using polyester reinforcement
ASTM D6162 and D6163 have three type classifications, Type I, Type II and Type III.

ASTM D6164 has two type classifications, Type 1 and Type 2. Typically, the higher the type, the larger the mass and physical properties.



There are two grades of SBS sheet:

Grade S: The sheet has a smooth surface
Grade G: The sheet has a granule surface
ASTM number, type and grade are specified by the architect in most cases.

Rated with the Cool Roof Rating Council for their reflective properties, and intended for building projects that require LEED® certification
Use an EnergyCap™ sheet for any BUR, SBS or APP system for projects that require the reliability of asphalt roofing, and Cool Roof Rating Council rated LEED®-certified solutions.

Tested in the field for decades, GAF asphaltic roofing materials provide durability and performance

Time-tested

GAF has been selling asphaltic roofing products since 1892 when they created ready-to-lay asphalt roofing rolls which they called “RU-BER-OID roofing.” Ruberoid® as a brand is still around today and GAF’s Mod-bit (SBS and APP) line of products are still sold under this brand name.
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Meets third party standards

It is not enough that the products look great. They have to perform great too. This is why GAF thoroughly tests recommended roof assemblies both internally and externally at 3rd party labs such as UL and FM global. So whatever standards are required for a roofing job, GAF has a solution.
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Reliable manufacturer

GAF is a leading manufacturer of protective roofing systems and coatings for the construction industry. Our dedicated teams are positioned to provide guidance and support to the industry. GAF provides roof systems and coating solutions that meet the most rigorous industry standards.
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Commitment to quality

GAF asphalt roofing solutions are specifically formulated with durability in mind. Using only the high-quality raw materials, GAF's products are thoroughly tested to ensure performance.
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When you need products, training & expertise from an industry leader

Talk to GAF first — from products designed for rooftop efficiency, to dedicated technical support that can assist with the specification process, to training designed to improve installer productivity, GAF provides solutions to support your business growth and profitability.
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