Asphalt Flat Roof Repair in Amarillo & West Texas
Professional Asphalt Flat Roof Repair Services
Asphalt-based flat roofing systems—including built-up roofing (BUR) and modified bitumen—are common on older commercial buildings in Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, and throughout West Texas. While these systems are durable, they require proper maintenance and timely repairs to prevent leaks and extend their lifespan in our harsh climate where hailstorms occur 6-12 times annually.
At 5 Star Commercial Roofing, we specialize in repairing all types of asphalt flat roofing systems. Whether you have traditional tar-and-gravel built-up roofing or modern modified bitumen, our experienced team provides fast, reliable repairs that restore your roof's waterproof integrity. For severe damage, we also provide complete commercial roof replacement services.
Types of Asphalt Flat Roofing We Repair
Built-Up Roofing (BUR)
Traditional "tar and gravel" roofs with multiple layers of asphalt-saturated felt alternating with hot tar. Common on buildings built 1950s-1990s. Very durable but requires specialized repair techniques.
- 3-5 ply felt and asphalt layers
- Gravel or mineral cap sheet surface
- Heavy, durable construction
- 20-30 year lifespan when maintained
- Excellent hail and fire resistance
Modified Bitumen
Modern evolution of BUR using polymer-modified asphalt in factory-fabricated rolls. Easier to install and repair than traditional BUR. Popular for commercial buildings 1990s-present.
- SBS (rubber) or APP (plastic) modified
- Torch-applied or cold-adhesive installation
- Granulated or smooth surface
- 15-25 year lifespan in Texas
- Good UV and weather resistance
Common Asphalt Flat Roof Problems
Thermal Splitting
Temperature cycling causes asphalt to expand/contract, creating cracks—common in West Texas with extreme temperature swings
Blister Formation
Moisture trapped between layers creates bubbles that rupture, allowing water infiltration
Hail Punctures
Baseball-sized hail can puncture asphalt membranes, especially in areas where gravel is sparse
Flashing Failures
Metal flashing separates from membrane over time, creating leak points at parapets and penetrations
Ponding Water
Poor drainage causes standing water that degrades asphalt and accelerates aging
UV Degradation
Intense West Texas sun breaks down exposed asphalt, causing brittleness and cracking
Our Asphalt Flat Roof Repair Process
Leak Detection & Assessment
We use infrared moisture scanning to identify all wet areas—not just visible damage. This prevents callbacks by catching hidden problems.
Remove Damaged Materials
Cut out blistered, cracked, or punctured sections of membrane down to dry substrate. We remove all wet insulation to prevent mold and structural damage.
Prepare Substrate
Ensure roof deck and remaining membrane are clean, dry, and properly prepared for new materials. This is critical for adhesion.
Install Repair Materials
For BUR: Apply new layers of felt and hot asphalt. For modified bitumen: Torch-apply or cold-adhere new membrane. We match existing systems for seamless repair.
Seal & Protect
Apply flood coat of asphalt and replace gravel (for BUR) or granulated cap sheet (for modified bitumen). Proper surface protection extends repair life.
Quality Inspection
Final inspection ensures watertight integrity. We warranty all repairs and schedule follow-up inspections after next rainstorm.
When to Repair vs. Replace Your Asphalt Flat Roof
Repair Makes Sense:
- Roof is less than 15 years old
- Damage is localized (under 20% of roof)
- No widespread blistering or cracking
- Substrate is dry and sound
- Budget requires short-term solution
Replacement Makes Sense:
- Roof is over 20 years old
- Multiple leak points across entire roof
- Widespread cracking or brittleness
- Wet insulation throughout
- Want to upgrade to modern materials (TPO/PVC)
We provide honest recommendations. If your roof can be repaired cost-effectively, we'll repair it. If replacement is more economical long-term, we'll explain why and provide detailed estimates.
⚠️ Don't Delay Asphalt Roof Repairs
Small leaks in asphalt roofing systems quickly become major problems. Water infiltration saturates insulation (adding thousands of pounds to roof load), promotes mold growth, and causes structural wood rot. A $2,000 repair today can prevent a $50,000 replacement next year.
Serving West Texas
Get Your Free Roof Assessment Today
Serving Amarillo and the entire Texas Panhandle, plus Midland, Odessa, and surrounding West Texas communities. Most commercial insurance policies in Texas cover storm damage, and we work directly with all major insurance companies to ensure you receive the full coverage you deserve.