The Stone Ballast Removal Process & Ballast Roof Detail
What is a ballasted roof? A ballasted roof is a type of flat or low-slope roofing system where the roofing membrane (typically made of rubber, thermoplastic, or other waterproof materials) is secured with a layer of heavy material, usually gravel or pavers, rather than adhesives or mechanical fasteners. This ballast layer keeps the roofing membrane in place, protecting it from wind uplift, UV radiation, and general wear, which can extend the lifespan of the roof.
If your roof has stone ballast on it that needs to be removed, the most common way to complete the task is to vacuum it right off! Roof ballast removal is completed with a giant vacuuming truck and custom-designed piping that allows the stone to be sucked right off the roof and into the truck. The stone is either left on site if the customer wants to keep it or disposed off site. At the end of the day, the roof looks dramatically different (and dirtier) without ballast.
Roof ballast removal has to be scheduled within days of the roof stocking date because a roof with its ballast securement removed is not well held down. You’ll notice in the after picture, a crane is in the background as we prepare to put the new roofing materials into position for the work. See Membrane Installation for more ballasted roof details on how ballast stone works. Once the job is stocked, the materials are spread evenly throughout the roof to act as ballast until the new roof system is installed.
Considering ballast removal? Explore what is a modified bitumen roof as a lightweight, durable alternative. This roof modified bitumen solution provides high performance without the weight of stone. A mod bit roof system could be the ideal upgrade for your commercial building’s needs, offering strength and versatility.
