Table of Contents
- What Is SBS Roofing?
- Why SBS Roofing Works Well in Calgary’s Climate
- Key Advantages of SBS-Modified Bitumen Roofing
- How SBS Roofing Is Installed
- Best Applications for SBS Roofing
- Maintenance Tips to Extend Roof Life
- Why Choose Total Exteriors for SBS Roofing in Calgary?
- Conclusion
1. What Is SBS Roofing?
SBS roofing—also known as Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene modified bitumen roofing—is a flexible, durable, and long-lasting flat roofing membrane widely used on commercial, industrial, and multi-unit buildings. The SBS polymer gives the asphalt superior elasticity, allowing it to move with temperature shifts without cracking.
This makes SBS one of the most reliable systems for buildings in climates with freeze-thaw cycles, heavy snow loads, and hailstorms—conditions Calgary knows well.
2. Why SBS Roofing Works Well in Calgary’s Climate
Calgary experiences some of the most unpredictable weather patterns in Canada, including:
- Temperature swings from +25°C to -20°C within hours
- Intense UV exposure
- Heavy summer hailstorms
- Freeze-thaw cycles
- High winds
SBS-modified bitumen is engineered to perform exceptionally well in these conditions because it:
- Expands and contracts without splitting
- Absorbs impact from hail
- Maintains flexibility even in freezing temperatures
- Creates a watertight barrier for flat and low-slope roofs
It is one of the most weather-resilient systems available for Calgary buildings.
3. Key Advantages of SBS-Modified Bitumen Roofing
✔ Superior Flexibility
The SBS polymer blend gives the membrane rubber-like properties. This prevents cracking in cold weather and allows the roof to withstand structural movement.
✔ Exceptional Waterproof Protection
SBS membranes are layered with heat-welded seams, forming a strong seal that resists water infiltration during heavy rain or rapid snowmelt.
✔ Hail and Impact Resistance
Unlike brittle roof systems, SBS absorbs impact from:
- Large hail
- Falling branches
- Wind-driven debris
This makes it ideal for Calgary’s severe storm seasons.
✔ Long Service Life
With proper maintenance, SBS roofing can last 20–30 years.
✔ Multi-Layer Protection
SBS systems typically include:
- A durable base sheet
- A modified bitumen cap sheet
- Granulated or smooth surface finish
Each layer adds resilience and extends roof lifespan.
4. How SBS Roofing Is Installed
Total Exteriors follows industry-leading protocols for long-lasting, high-performance installations:
Step 1: Surface Preparation
- Remove debris, old membranes, loose gravel
- Level and clean the substrate
- Repair damaged areas
Step 2: Base Sheet Installation
A mechanically fastened or torch-applied base sheet creates the first waterproof layer.
Step 3: SBS Cap Sheet Application
The top layer is heat-welded or torch-applied for a seamless, watertight finish.
Step 4: Flashing & Edge Treatment
All edges, penetrations, drains, and transitions are sealed to prevent water intrusion.
Step 5: Final Inspection
A detailed quality check ensures proper adhesion, seam bonding, and complete watertightness.
5. Best Applications for SBS Roofing
SBS-modified bitumen performs well on:
- Commercial buildings
- Industrial facilities
- Multi-family residential properties
- Schools & municipal buildings
- Warehouses
- Retail plazas
- Flat roof garages & additions
Any property with a flat or low-slope roof benefits from the strength and reliability of SBS systems.
6. Maintenance Tips to Extend Roof Life
Simple maintenance can significantly extend the life of an SBS roofing system:
✔ Inspect the roof twice per year
Spring and fall inspections help identify issues early.
✔ Clear debris after storms
Branches, leaves, and dirt can trap moisture.
✔ Check seams and flashing
Ensure bonding remains intact after freeze-thaw cycles.
✔ Look for ponding water
Standing water can shorten roof lifespan.
✔ Schedule professional inspections
Total Exteriors provides detailed roof assessments to keep systems performing at peak efficiency.
7. Why Choose Total Exteriors for SBS Roofing in Calgary?
Total Exteriors is a leading roofing contractor known for:
- Expertise in Calgary’s challenging climate
- High-quality SBS roofing installation
- Full exterior restoration and storm damage repair
- Fast emergency response
- Insurance claim support
- Top-tier materials and workmanship
Whether your building needs a full replacement or targeted repairs, Total Exteriors provides durable, code-compliant, long-lasting solutions.
8. Conclusion
SBS roofing remains one of the most reliable and weather-resilient flat roofing systems available today—especially for cities like Calgary that endure extreme temperature swings, heavy hail, and intense UV exposure.
With proper installation and maintenance, SBS roofing delivers decades of protection while reducing the risk of leaks, cracks, and storm-related damage.
Total Exteriors ensures every SBS roof is built to withstand Calgary’s toughest weather—season after season.