Rolled roofing is made of a base material covered with asphalt and mineral granules. The base is usually fiberglass or felt paper that gets coated with sticky asphalt. Then crushed stone or mineral granules get pressed into the top layer. This keeps the sun from breaking down the asphalt. Rolled roofing is one of the cheapest ways to cover a flat or low-slope roof. It comes in large rolls that you unroll and nail down.
What Is the Base Layer Made from?
The base of rolled roofing can be fiberglass mat or organic felt paper. Fiberglass is stronger and lasts longer. Felt paper is made from recycled wood fibers and is softer. Both materials get saturated with hot asphalt to make them waterproof. According to industry data, built-up roofing, which is similar to rolled roofing, lasts 15 to 30 years depending on the materials used.
The base layer is thin but tough. It needs to hold the asphalt coating and stick to your roof deck. Most rolled roofing bases are between 15 and 30 pounds per 100 square feet. A lighter base costs less but won’t last as long.
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What Coats and Protects the Base?
Asphalt is what makes rolled roofing waterproof. Hot asphalt gets poured or sprayed onto the fiberglass or felt base. This asphalt layer sticks everything together and blocks water from getting inside. The asphalt also makes the roof flexible so it can expand and contract when the temperature changes.
On top of the asphalt goes a layer of mineral granules. These are tiny pieces of crushed stone or slate. They protect the asphalt from sun damage and UV rays. Light-colored granules can help keep your roof cooler in hot weather.
How Much Does Rolled Roofing Cost?
Rolled roofing is one of the most affordable roof types. According to RubyHome, corrugated metal roofing costs 5.50 to 11.50 dollars per square foot, while flat roofing materials like rubber cost 5.50 to 7.50 dollars per square foot. Rolled roofing typically falls in this lower price range.
For a 1,700 square foot roof, total installation costs between 6,800 and 68,000 dollars depending on the material. But rolled roofing will cost much less than premium options like slate or copper tiles.
How Long Does Rolled Roofing Last?
Rolled roofing typically lasts 5 to 10 years in hot climates or 10 to 20 years in mild weather. The lifespan depends on sun exposure, weather, and how well you maintain it. According to RubyHome data, modified bitumen roofing, which is a stepped-up version of rolled roofing, lasts about 20 years.
| Material Layer | What It Is | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Base | Fiberglass or felt paper | Provides structure |
| Asphalt coating | Hot sticky tar | Waterproofs the roof |
| Granules | Crushed stone or slate | Protects from sun damage |
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Connect with an experienced professional roofer to discuss your roofing needs and schedule an inspection.