03/11/2026
How to know your Commercial Gravel Built Top roof is on its last legs?
❎1. Frequent Leaks
• If leaks start happening in multiple locations, the asphalt layers and felts are likely deteriorating.
• Water stains on ceilings or insulation getting wet inside the building are strong indicators.
❎2. Bare Spots (Gravel Loss)
• Gravel protects the asphalt from UV rays.
• If you see large areas where gravel is missing and black asphalt is exposed, the roof is aging quickly.
❎. Alligatoring (Cracking Pattern)
• The asphalt surface begins to crack in a pattern that looks like alligator skin.
• This happens when the asphalt dries out and loses flexibility.
❎. Blisters or Bubbles
• Raised areas in the roof membrane indicate trapped moisture or air between layers.
• If blisters are widespread, the system is failing.
❎. Soft or Spongy Areas
• When walking on the roof, it may feel soft or compressible.
• This usually means water has saturated the insulation or deck below.
❎. Flashing Failures
• Around parapet walls, penetrations, drains, and HVAC units, flashing may crack or pull away.
• These are common leak points on older BUR roofs.
❎. Gravel in Drains or Gutters
• Excess gravel washing into drains means the top flood coat is breaking down.
❎. Asphalt Smell or Bleed-Through
• If you see asphalt bleeding through the gravel or smell strong tar odors on hot days, the bitumen is deteriorating
Need a consultation? A repair?, if needed a replacement give us a call at 937-727-2683💎🔨
