Why Do They Have Gravel On Flat Roofs

Of all the flat roofing options a tar and gravel roof is the most economical.

Why do they have gravel on flat roofs.

Specifically there are two main reasons to use a ballasted roof system. It provides excellent protection against uv rays and is an attractive option for windows and decks that overlook the roof. The weight provided by the gravel is used to anchor down the roof materials therefore using far fewer fasteners to hold the materials to the decking. Gravel is an excellent fire retardant.

Gravel to protect built up roofs. To protect the underlying layer of roofing materials as is the case with built up roofs burs. A built up roof bur. To weigh down or secure the roofing material as is the case with single ply flat roofs.

Both factors can extend the life of your flat roof. Also a tar and gravel roof is very rugged and safe to walk on. Gravel is used on flat roofs for two reasons. The gravel is mostly put on flat felt roofs to serve as a heat barrier from the sun otherwise the felt would soften and blister and then when it was cold the creases in it would.