SBS/APP Modified Bitumen Roofing

From Juneau Odenwald Serving all of Metro New Orleans

Many commercial structures in the New Orleans area are installing an SBS/APP modified bitumen roofing system when it comes time to replace their existing roofing material. This type of material offers long-term benefits to the building structure, in that it can withstand the harsh environmental elements of Louisiana weather. This includes baking heat, driving rain, and ongoing humidity experienced all throughout the New Orleans area.

Both SBS and APP modified bitumen roofing structures are ideal for retrofitting or reroofing existing structures, or when installing a roof on new construction. The material avoids flow resistant in extreme high temperatures and incredible flexibility in lower temperatures. This helps increase its strength and durability in either a hot or cold applied system. In addition, the system offers optimal tear strength and resistance to punctures. It is a 100% fire resistant product.

Why Choose Modified Bitumen?

Based on traditional experience estimates in the construction industry, the life expectancy of a modified bitumen roofing system can be upwards of 30 years. However, this is highly dependent on the chosen waterproofing membrane that was used in the installation, along with annual maintenance and proper care over its lifespan.

In addition to that, for structures that routinely encounter heavy foot traffic on the roof, modified bitumen continues to be a time-tested, popular roofing system. Often times, it is utilized as a supplement to traditional built-up roofing systems. This is due to its lightweight properties and its unique application style (dual-layered).

Both SBS and APP modified bitumen utilize the power of blending different materials proven to have superior properties for protection. These include polyesters, asphalt polymers, along with plastic forming compounds. When blended together, they produce an effective airtight seal that provides a high level of safeguard against moisture, cracks, leaks and damage due to the sun.

In addition to that, the product is available in highly reflective coatings. This helps the New Orleans area buildings control their cooling costs while increasing the lifespan and integrity of the roofing system.

SBS and APP

The polymer modified bitumen membrane sheets are manufactured in two different types that include SBS and APP.

SBS Polymer-Modified Bitumen – These sheet membranes are typically used during the installation of a commercial roofing system either by cold adhesive, or hot mopping of asphalt, much similar to a traditional built-up roofing system. Some reputable New Orleans roofers install SBS modified membranes that are designed to be self-adhering. They are constructed with an adhesive backing. A classified SBS modifier implies a rubberized content in the asphalt.
APP Polymer Modified Bitumen – Typically, these membranes are used in torch applied or heat welded applications. Usually, this type of material is never directly installed on a wood deck. A classified APP modifier implies a plasticized content in the asphalt.

Many business structures can benefit from a modified bitumen roofing system because it is highly resistant to uplift and fires. In addition, it has added tensile strength, and fabric uniformity, which produces an overall better product during installation.

However, an effective application of a warrantied modified bitumen roofing system requires the skillful arrangement of various components that must be properly applied. Therefore, it is important to hire the skills of a reputable New Orleans roofing company such as Juneau Odenwald Roofing.