About bitumen roofing
Here are a few pieces of information about bitumen roofing. This should help you decide if it is a good option for your home.
Substance
Bitumen is very similar to tar.
Uses
Bitumen can be used for roofing insulation, but because of it’s properties, it can be used for road surfaces and cladding. Because it’s waterproof it is ideal for roofing use. Most commonly it’s used for flat roofs.
Grades
The various forms of bitumen are know as grades. In a temperate climate, the bitumen will be semi-solid and will become liquid if the temperature increases. To determine the grades of the bitumen, a test must be done, know as penetration test. The test uses a needle and measures the rate at which it is able to sink into the bitumen.
Roofing types
Because it comes in many different varieties, you should find one that suits your needs. Bitumen can come in tile form, flat sheets, shingles and corrugated sheets. Also you can apply it directly on the roof in its liquid form. It is very cheap and you can use it for large roofs.
Qualities
Liquid bitumen is very efficient and waterproof, even when it’s not fully dried. One layer is enough to protect your roof from water damage. It also reflects solar rays.