If you need a new flat roof, learn about tar and gravel roof costs and what can affect your total to make sure you budget accurately.
Tar and Gravel Roof: A Complete Guide
The longest-lasting option for your flat roof
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A gravel roof lasts about 30 years and protects your flat roof from extreme weather, flying debris, and UV damage better than other flat roof options.
Expect to pay $8,000 to $12,000 for tar and gravel roof installation, with average costs around $10,200 depending on your roof size.
Your gravel roof needs annual inspections and regular drain cleaning to prevent leaks, and repairs require removing gravel to reach the membrane below.
Hiring a local flat roofing professional provides reliable support for installation, leak repairs, and structural assessments to keep your roof performing well.
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You have a few options when it comes time to replace your flat roof, and a tar and gravel roof is one of the best if you’re looking for longevity and protection from impact and physical damage. In this guide, we’ll explain what a tar and gravel roof is, the benefits and drawbacks, and more to help you decide if this is the right roof for you.
What Is a Tar and Gravel Roof?
A tar and gravel roof, also called a built-up roof (BUR), is a flat roof option that consists of layers of roofing felt and asphalt, which your roofer will heat up with a torch to create a waterproof membrane. The roofer you hire then lays down a layer of gravel over the membrane to add protection from impact and UV radiation from the sun.
Pros and Cons of a Tar and Gravel Roof
Tar and gravel roofs have the longest lifespan of any flat roof material, lasting an average of 30 years. They’re particularly good options in areas with extreme weather that can blow debris or knock down tree branches and limbs that could otherwise puncture the roofing membrane, as the gravel helps protect the asphalt layers below. In extreme climates, they can reduce how often you need to pay for flat roof replacement.
Standard built-up roofs without gravel also need resealing every two to five years to prevent damage from UV radiation, and the gravel adds protection from the sunlight to eliminate the need for resealing. Tar and gravel roofs also provide outstanding value for the money, as they last longer and cost less than other options, like TPO roofs and EPDM roofs.
"UV protection is a critical factor—reflective roofing materials and coatings help extend a roof’s lifespan by reducing heat absorption and preventing material degradation. Ultimately, homeowners should work with a certified roofing inspector to ensure they select a system that balances longevity, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness for their specific needs."
— Paul Watrous, President of the National Roof Certification and Inspection Association (NRCIA)
There are some downsides to consider, though. First, while the protective gravel reduces the need for repairs, repairs will be most expensive when you do need them, as your roofer will need to remove the layer of gravel to access the membrane below. The gravel is also heavy, so you may need to pay more for structural reinforcements, which can add to your roof replacement costs.
How Much Does a Tar and Gravel Roof Cost?
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Tar and gravel roofs cost an average of $10,200, and most homeowners pay between $8,000 and $12,000, depending on the size of the roof. This is more expensive than a standard built-up roof without gravel, but you’ll get more long-term value thanks to the protective layer of gravel that reduces maintenance and minimizes the risk of roof damage and roof leaks.
How to Maintain a Tar and Gravel Roof
Tar and gravel roofs are relatively low maintenance, so annual roof inspections and regular roof drain cleaning—both of which are required for all flat roofs—are all you’ll need to worry about in most cases. The only other maintenance item you’ll need to carry out will be routine repairs done by a local flat roofing company if you do run into a roof leak, and your roof inspections should uncover areas that need attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
Roofing services reviews from real Angi homeowners in Columbus, OH
4.3★ avg. • 120 total reviews
- Chance R.
D1 Roofing delivers outstanding service from beginning to end, backed by a strong warranty and expert teams. I highly recommend them for their excellence in meeting and surpassing expectations with unmatched communication. Choosing D1 Roofing was flawless decision
Division 1 Roofing LLC - Jeremy P.
This place took $25,000 for a flat roof job with a five-year warranty and never returned to fix the leaks that were caused by their work. These people are not professionals and should not be doing this type of work. They incorrectly changed the pitch of the roof, and caused more damage than...
- David B.
The technician was very professional and friendly. He answered all my questions and was very thorough. He left the fireplace area very clean . He inspected from the roof and advised me as to other work that might need to be done. There was no pressure there. I was very satisfied with the...
Supreme brick & chimney - Kevin S.
I am really impressed with their timeliness and turnaround. Mitchell came out, and we decided to move forward with their pricing. Our roof was on within a week, and we could not be happier with their team! Amazing company, great prices and honest, dependable craftsmanship. I highly recommend...
Window Depot USA of Central Ohio - Rob B.
Manuel Calvillo is the best option in the area for roofing and you won't be disappointed.
- Julie K.
They damaged multiple items on my property, including a marble slab used as a table top, tried to hide it, and refused to pay or replace. Arrived day one without a ladder to access roof & delayed a day. Left a mess in back yard; didn't wear face masks; no show by owner to property to see damages
Grants Tree Service - Marcia L.
I've hired Gary/Cherokee Roofing for two different homes, work quality, responsiveness, and completion have been great both times. And the prices quoted were very competitive. I would definitely hire again.
- Paul F.
Lyle did a great job removing asbestos shingles from our front porch roof. They worked together with our roofer to make sure that the new roof was able to be installed on the same day that Lyle removed the asbestos shingles.
Lyle Environmental - Paul F.
Bradley Builders did a good job replacing the roof on our front porch. They color-matched the existing shingles on the rest of the house and installed a metal ridge roll since we live in a historical neighborhood. They did the job while we were out of town. When we got back, everything was...
Bradley Builders, Inc. - Madison B.
I would absolutely recommend this business. They offer a variety of services, including: painting, roofing, and refinishing wood flooring. I hired them to refinish the original hardwood flooring in my home built in 1874. The job was quite challenging, as the floors were extremely aged and...
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