Tar and gravel roof

A tar and gravel roof, also known as a built-up roof (BUR), is a traditional roofing system made of multiple layers of bitumen (tar) and a layer of gravel. This type of roof is durable, resistant to weather extremes, and excellent at insulating a building. It is often used on flat or low-slope roofs due to its ability to create a waterproof barrier. While tar and gravel roofs are long-lasting, they require regular maintenance to prevent damage from accumulated debris or cracks in the bitumen layers. The gravel also helps protect the underlying layers from UV damage. Although cost-effective initially, these roofs may require periodic re-coating or repairs.