As Houston’s most trusted commercial roofing repair and installation experts, Certified Commercial Roofing knows first-hand how vital quality roofing is for businesses and commercial facilities. Modified bitumen roofing has grown in popularity thanks to its durability and reliability in Houston’s humid, storm-prone climate. But what exactly is modified bitumen roofing, what are common issues building owners face, and what repair services can help maximize its working life? Read on for insights from our 18+ years of experience that building owners can apply to protect their investments.
What is Modified Bitumen Roofing?
Modified bitumen roofing combines asphalt with synthetic rubber polymers, creating enhanced durability and weather resistance compared to standard asphalt roofing. The rubbery modifiers make the material more flexible and able to expand/contract through hot and cold cycles without cracking or splitting. The modifiers also increase UV tolerance and overall life expectancy to 20 years or longer.
Unlike smooth asphalt, modified bitumen comes in wide sheets with a patterned or smooth surface texture. The sheets fuse together using adhesives or heat welding to form a seamless barrier that sheds rain and moisture easily via sloped drainage systems. Properly installed, quality modified bitumen stands up to Houston’s punishing heat, humidity and sudden storms.
Common Causes of Roof Damage
While modified bitumen roofs resist damage better than standard asphalt, they can still degrade and cause problems if maintenance is neglected. Some of the most common issues our repair technicians see include:
Surface Cracking – Extreme heat makes modified bitumen expand, while winter cold causes contraction. Over multiple cycles, surface cracks form to release the stresses. Cracks allow water intrusion that further erodes membranes.
Detached Seams & Curled Edges – Strong winds or repetitive foot traffic can lift seams and edges from roof decks. Gaps let water penetrate under membranes, spreading damage.
Punctures – Falling tree branches or debris blown by high winds can rupture modified bitumen surfaces. Water pools in punctures, ruining membranes.
Drain Failures – Leaves and debris accumulate to clog roof drainage systems. Water backs up, pools and strains roof connections while permeating layers.
Specialized Maintenance & Repairs
Identifying modified bitumen roof damage early is key to lower repair costs and lasting protection. Our expert technicians offer complete maintenance and hands-on repair services to catch small issues before they mushroom. We re-adhere lifted seams, seal punctures, clear debris from drains, and apply protective coatings without disrupting business operations.
Other value-adding repair services we provide building owners include:
In-Depth Inspections – We conduct thorough roof analyses to map all potential deficiencies and maintenance needs for planning.
Custom Repair Plans – No two roofs are alike, so we tailor unique repair approaches to match each roof’s system design and deficiencies.
Precision Repairs – Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, our technicians customize repairs down to materials and techniques to provide quality, lasting solutions.
Upfront Pricing – We provide clear, fair quotes upfront so you know exactly what to expect for out-of-pocket costs.
Complete Documentation – For your records, we provide detailed project summaries showing what work we completed and recommendations for optimizing roof value.
Partnering with building owners to maximize modified bitumen roof lifespans is what drives our business. Contact our team at Certified Commercial Roofing today to discuss your commercial roofing system’s unique repair and maintenance needs.
