News & Advice

Rocks on a roof, especially flat ones, provide protection against weather, UV rays, and can improve drainage, besides holding down the roofing material.

There are several reasons why someone might choose to put rocks or gravel on their roof…

1. Protection – Rocks can act as a protective layer for the roofing material underneath, such as built-up roofing membranes or modified bitumen membranes. They help to shield the roofing material from UV radiation, extreme temperatures, and physical damage, thereby extending its lifespan.
2. Weight distribution – Rocks add weight to the roof, which can help to hold the roofing material in place and prevent it from being lifted by strong winds. This is particularly important for flat roofs, which are more susceptible to wind uplift.
3. Heat reflection – Light-colored rocks, especially white ones, reflect sunlight, reducing the amount of heat absorbed by the roof. This can help to lower cooling costs for the building by reducing the heat transferred into the interior spaces.
4. Fire protection – Rocks can provide some level of fire protection for the roof by acting as a barrier between the roofing material and any potential ignition sources.
5. Aesthetics – Some people choose to add rocks to their roof for aesthetic reasons, as it can give the roof a unique and visually appealing appearance.

The decision to put rocks on a roof is often based on a combination of functional benefits, such as protection and energy efficiency, as well as aesthetic preferences.