Built-up Roofing

Term from Roofing industry explained for recruiters

Built-up Roofing, often called BUR, is a traditional method of creating flat or low-slope roofs commonly used on commercial buildings. It's like making a layer cake - workers create the roof by putting down multiple layers of special roofing materials (usually felt or fabric) with hot asphalt between each layer. This creates a very strong, waterproof cover for buildings. It's one of the oldest and most reliable types of commercial roofing systems, and many building owners choose it because it lasts a long time and protects well against water damage.

Examples in Resumes

Supervised installation of Built-up Roofing systems on commercial properties

Managed BUR projects totaling over 100,000 square feet

Performed maintenance and repairs on existing Built-up Roof systems

Estimated material requirements for Built-up Roofing installations

Typical job title: "Built-up Roofing Installers"

Also try searching for:

Commercial Roofer Flat Roof Specialist BUR Installer Roofing Technician Commercial Roofing Installer Industrial Roofer

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you plan and manage a large Built-up Roofing project?

Expected Answer: Should discuss project planning, team coordination, material ordering, safety protocols, quality control, and timeline management. Should mention weather considerations and contingency planning.

Q: What factors do you consider when recommending Built-up Roofing versus other roofing systems?

Expected Answer: Should explain considerations like building structure, climate, budget, longevity requirements, and maintenance needs. Should demonstrate knowledge of various roofing system advantages and limitations.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are common problems you might encounter during a Built-up Roofing installation and how do you address them?

Expected Answer: Should discuss issues like weather delays, material compatibility, proper adhesion between layers, and ensuring proper drainage, along with practical solutions.

Q: How do you ensure proper safety measures during a Built-up Roofing installation?

Expected Answer: Should mention fall protection, hot material handling safety, proper equipment usage, team communication, and following OSHA guidelines.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic components of a Built-up Roofing system?

Expected Answer: Should be able to describe the basic layers: deck, insulation, felt/fabric layers, asphalt, and top coating or gravel surface.

Q: What basic tools and equipment are used in Built-up Roofing installation?

Expected Answer: Should name common tools like hot kettles, mops, rollers, cutters, and safety equipment, and explain their basic uses.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic roofing material knowledge
  • Understanding of safety procedures
  • Ability to use basic roofing tools
  • Following installation instructions

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Independent installation work
  • Problem identification and solving
  • Reading construction drawings
  • Team coordination

Senior (5+ years)

  • Project management
  • Quality inspection
  • Team supervision
  • Complex installation planning

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of basic safety procedures
  • Lack of physical capability for demanding roof work
  • No experience with commercial roofing projects
  • Unable to explain basic Built-up Roofing components

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