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Home / Service / Commercial Built‑Up Roofing (BUR)

Commercial Built-Up Roofing (BUR)

Ponding water and 100°F summer roof surfaces break down single-ply membranes fast.

Achilles Roofing & Exterior installs multi-ply gravel-surfaced commercial built up roofing systems engineered for flat and low-slope commercial roofs across Houston, The Woodlands, Cypress and more — starting at $20,000, backed by a 5-year workmanship warranty.

Watch How We Deliver Quality

Signs Your Commercial BUR Roof Needs Attention

Ponding Water Past 48 Hours

Standing water on a flat roof more than two days after Houston's afternoon storms accelerates ply separation and gravel displacement on your commercial built up roofing.

Bare Spots in the Gravel Cap

Exposed asphalt or felt where gravel has washed away leaves the membrane unprotected from UV and hail.

Blistering or Alligatoring

Cracked, scaled-looking asphalt surfacing signals the top ply of your commercial built up roofing is drying out under sustained Gulf Coast sun exposure.

How Built-Up Roofing Holds Up in Houston's Climate

Why Multi-Ply Systems Outperform Single-Ply on Flat Commercial Roofs Here

✔ 3-ply or 4-ply commercial built up roofing construction distributes stress across redundant layers instead of one membrane
✔ Gravel or mineral cap sheet reflects UV and adds impact resistance against Houston hailstorms
✔ Field-verified slope and drainage assessment before any ply is set, addressing Harris County’s flat commercial roof drainage requirements

Lead Foreman Edwardo Cano, who has overseen more than 5,000 roofing projects across the Houston area, specializes in flat and low-slope systems and personally reviews drainage and seam detail on every commercial built up roofing installation before crews mobilize.

Storm Damage to a Flat Commercial Roof Doesn't Wait

What to Do the Moment You Spot an Active BUR Leak

A punctured gravel cap or split seam after a Houston thunderstorm can flood an interior ceiling within hours if the flashing detail fails.

✅ Emergency tarping to stop active water intrusion on flat roof sections
✅ Documented photo assessment of ply separation for your commercial insurance claim
✅ Same-visit scope of repair versus recover, so building managers can budget accordingly

Commercial Roofing Credentials in Houston

What Achilles Roofing Brings to a BUR Installation

✔ GAF Certified Plus and Mule-Hide authorized installer, RCAT Member #208834
✔ BBB A+-Rated, with 560+ five-star reviews from Houston-area customers
✔ Founder Ahmad Faiz brings 18 years of storm restoration and commercial roofing experience to every project scope
✔ ✔ 5-year workmanship warranty on installed commercial built up roofing systems, plus GreenSky financing for qualifying commercial accounts

Roofing Manager Patricia Contreras coordinates commercial project scheduling from our office in The Woodlands, with material staged out of the Cypress supply yard for faster mobilization across Houston, The Woodlands, Cypress and more.

Common Questions About: Commercial Built‑Up Roofing (BUR)

How long does a built-up roof last on a commercial building in Houston?

A properly installed 3- or 4-ply commercial built up roofing system with a gravel cap typically lasts 20–30 years in the Houston climate, provided ponding water is addressed and the gravel ballast is replenished during routine maintenance.

What does commercial BUR roofing cost in Houston?

Commercial built up roofing projects generally start at $20,000 depending on square footage, tear-off scope, and drainage corrections. Final pricing follows an on-site inspection.

Why is ponding water such a concern for BUR roofs specifically?

Standing water adds sustained weight and moisture pressure at seams and flashing details. On a multi-ply commercial built up roofing system (BUR), prolonged ponding accelerates ply separation faster than it does on fully adhered single-ply membranes.

Can a built-up roof be repaired, or does storm damage always mean full replacement?

Most localized damage — a torn cap sheet, a failed flashing detail, or a bare gravel section on your commercial built up roofing — can be repaired in place. Full replacement is typically reserved for widespread ply separation or repeated leak history across the field.

How does gravel ballast affect a building’s cooling costs in Houston summers?

A light-colored or mineral-surfaced gravel cap reflects a portion of solar heat rather than absorbing it, which can reduce rooftop surface temperatures and ease HVAC load during peak Houston summer months.

Does a commercial BUR project in Houston require a permit?

Most commercial roof replacements in the Houston area require a permit through the applicable municipal or Harris County building department before work begins; repairs below certain thresholds may not. We confirm requirements during the estimate.

How can I tell if my flat roof is BUR versus modified bitumen or single-ply?

A gravel or mineral-surfaced top layer with visible asphalt between stones is the clearest indicator of a built-up roof, as opposed to the smooth membrane sheet look of TPO, EPDM, or PVC systems.

What causes blistering on a built-up roof’s surface?

Blistering occurs when trapped moisture or air between plies expands under sustained UV heat, common on Houston roofs during summer. Left unaddressed, blisters can crack open and expose the felt underneath.

How often should a commercial BUR roof be inspected?

Twice-yearly inspections — before hurricane season and after — catch gravel displacement, seam separation, and drain blockages before they become active leaks, particularly important given Houston’s storm frequency.

Will a new BUR system affect my commercial property insurance?

Some commercial insurers offer favorable terms for roofs with documented recent installation and warranty coverage. We provide installation and warranty documentation that can be submitted to your carrier.

Do you service BUR roofs outside Houston proper?

Yes — we serve Houston, The Woodlands, Cypress and more, with crews and materials staged at our Cypress supply yard for faster response across the service area.

What warranty comes with a commercial BUR installation?

Installations carry a 5-year workmanship warranty. Manufacturer material warranties vary by product line and are reviewed with you before the project is scoped.

General Company & Process FAQs

About Achilles Roofing & Exteriors

  • Are you a licensed and insured local roofing company?

    Yes. Achilles Roofing is fully licensed, bonded, and insured in the state of Texas. We are a locally owned and operated company based in Houston, proudly serving homeowners across Houston and all surrounding areas. Our commitment is to our community, and we stand by the quality and safety of every project we undertake.

  • Can I see examples of your past work or speak to previous clients?

    Absolutely. We are proud of our work and have an extensive portfolio of before-and-after project galleries. We are also happy to connect with previous clients in the Houston area who can speak to their experience with our team

  • What makes Achilles Roofing different from other Houston roofers?

    We’re roofers, not just salesman. Our reputation is built on honest work, transparent communication, and treating every Houston family we work with like our own. We focus on providing the right solution for your home and budget, backed by robust warranties and a commitment to exceptional craftmanship.

  • Do you use subcontractors for your roofing projects?

    No. We believe in accountability and consistency quality, which is why your roof is installed by our own trained, in-house Achilles Roofing crews. We don’t outsource our work, ensuring that every project meets our high standards from start to finish.

  • How long have you been in business?

    Our leadership team has decades of combined experience in the Texas roofing and storm restoration industry. As a company, we have succesfully completed hundreds of roof replacement and repairs in Houston neighborhoods, building a strong reputation for quality and reliability.

Pricing, Estimates & Financing

  • What’s your emergency tarp fee?

    $300 minimum for a 5×5 area, covering emergency leak protection until permanent repairs begin.

  • Do you replace skylights?

    Yes. Velux skylight replacement is $2,000, double dome is $1,500, and labor/installation-only is $600. All skylight work carries a 5-year labor warranty.

  • How much does shingle roofing cost per square?

    GAF HDZ runs $127.50/square, GAF NS is $109/square, and OC Duration is $127/square. Pricing varies by roof size and complexity — call (832) 888-1666 for a free estimate.

  • What roofing packages does Achilles Roofing offer?

    Three tiers: Good (Builder Grade shingles, 2-year labor warranty, no material warranty), Better (GAF NS shingles, 5-year labor warranty, manufacturer material warranty), and Best (GAF UHDZ shingles, 10-year labor warranty, enhanced manufacturer warranty). Call (832) 888-1666 to find the right fit for your budget.

  • How much does a new roof cost in Houston?

    The cost of a new roof is a significant investment, and the final price depends on several factors, including the size, pitch (steepness), and complexity of your roof, as well as the specific materials you choose. 

    While every home is unique, we want to provide some general price ranges for a typical 1,500 sq. ft. home in the Houston area to help you budget:

    • Architectural Shingles (Most Popular): $5,500 – $8,500
    • Impact-Resistant/ Designer Shingles: $9,000 – $14,000+
    • Standing Seam Metal Roof: $15,000 – $25,000+

    For a More Accurate Quote: Get Your Instant Estimate Now

    These are ballpark estimates for planning purposes only. The best way to get a precise and instant quote for your specific property is to use our free instant estimator tool. It uses advanced satelite imagery to measure your roof and provide a detailed, accurate estimate for your replacement and installation.

  • Do you offer financing options?

    Yes, we make it easy to get the roof you need now with the affordable and flexible financing. We have partnered with Greensky® Financing, a leader in home improvement loans, to offer our customers excellent payment options. Through this partnership, qualified homeowners can get a brand-new roof with $0 Down and low monthly payments, starting at just $199/month.

    This program allows you to protect your home immediately without the stress of a large upfront payment. You can learn more about the benefits and get pre-qualified in minutes on our financing page.

    Learn More About Greensky® Financing.

  • What is included in your roofing estimate?

    We believe in 100% transparency. Every written estimate from Achilles Roofing includes a detailed breakdown of all costs, including materials, labor, tear-off and disposal of the old roof, and thorough site cleanup, You will also receive clear start and completion timelines, payment schedules, and full warranty details. There are no hidden fees.

The Roofing Process

  • How will you communicate with me during the project?

    We believe in constant communication. You will be assigned a dedicated project manager who will be your single point of contact. They will provide daily updates, including photos and progress reports, and are always available to answer your questions via phone call or text.

  • How do you protect my home and property during the installation?

    Your property’s protection is a top priority. Our crews use heavy-duty tarps and protective boards to cover your landscaping, windows, AC units, and driveway. We conduct a thorough cleanup at the end of each day and use magnet sweeps to collect any stray nails or metal debris, leaving your property spotless.

  • Do you handle city permits and inspections?

    Yes, we manage the entire process for you. This includes pulling all necessary permits with the City of Houston or your local jurisdiction and scheduling the final inspection upon completion. We ensure your new roof is fully complaint with all local building codes and manufacturer standards.

Materials & Warranty

  • Do you install attic or roof vents?

    Yes — we install Attic Breeze and Remington Solar vent systems for improved attic ventilation and energy efficiency.

  • What shingle colors are available?

    Builder Grade comes in Brown, Gray, or Black. GAF shingles offer Slate, Weathered Wood, Charcoal, Barkwood, Mission Brown, Hickory, and Pewter Grey.

  • Why do different roofing options have different prices and warranties?

    Your roof is a complete system, and the materials you choose play the biggest role in it’s long-term performance, durability, and the level of protection you receive. We offer several options to ensure we can provide the perfect solution for every home and budget.

    • Standard Achitectural Shingles offer excellent value and protection, backed by our 5-year workmanship warranty and solid manufacturer warranties. 
    • Premium GAF System often include impact-resistant technology and come with enhanced, non-prorated warranty coverage for the ultimate peace of mind.

    During your free assessment, our team will walk you through the specific benefits of each option, helping you choose the right balance of performance, longevity, and price for your situation.

  • What are the best roofing materials for the Houston climate?

    Houston’s unique combination of intense sun, high humidity, and severe storms demands durable and well-ventilated roofing systems. We typically recommend:

    • Impact-Resistant Shingles: These are designed to withstand hail and high winds, which can often lead to insurance discounts. 
    • “Cool Roof” Shingles: These reflective shingles can lower your roof’s temperature, reducing your energy bills during hot Texas summers.
    • Proper Attic Ventilation: This is critical in our humid climate to prevent moisture buildup and extend the life of your entire roofing system. We always ensure your ventilation is up to code.
  • What kind of warranties do you offer?

    We provide a powerful, dual-layer warranty system to give you complete peace of mind. Your new roof is protected by two separate warranties: one for the installation quality (our workmanship) and one for the materials themselves.

    1. Our 5-Year Workmanship Warranty: This is our direct promise to you. For a full five years after your installation, we cover any issues related to the quality of our work. If there’s a problem caused by our installation, we will fix it, no questions asked. This guarantees the quality and skill of our certified crews.
    2. The GAF Manufacturer’s Warranty: As GAF Certified roofers, we are able to offer robust warranties direclty from the manufacturer. This warranty protects you against any defects in the roofing materials themselves. Depending on the GAF System you choose, this can include long-term, non-prorated coverage that provides an exceptional level of protection for your investment.

    By combining our workmanship guarantee with a top-tier manufacturer’s warranty, we ensure that every aspect of your new roof is covered for years to come.

Get a Scoped BUR Estimate Before Your Next Houston Storm Season