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Single-Ply Commercial Roofing

Single-Ply Commercial Roofing

Single-ply membranes are generally categorized as either thermoplastic or thermoset. Thermoplastic materials can be repeatedly softened when heated and hardened when cooled. Thermoset materials solidify, or "set," irreversibly after heating. Single ply membranes commonly are referred to by their chemical acronyms, such as ethylene propylene diene terpolymer (EPDM).

Single-ply membranes may contain reinforcement layers. Common reinforcements for single ply membranes include polyester fabrics or scrims, glass fiber, or a felt or fleece backing. A finished sheet's thickness typically is referred to as mil thickness; 1 mil equals 0.001 inch. Common mil thicknesses for these sheet membranes range from 30 mils to 60 mils.

Single-ply membranes can be installed fully adhered, mechanically attached or held down with ballast. Most single-ply roof systems do not receive surfacing.

In many instances, a combination of attachment methods are used to secure a roof system. For instance, an insulation may be mechanically attached to the substrate with the roof membrane fully adhered to the insulation.

About Single-Ply

:Roofing membranes that are applied in one layer. Single-Ply membranes come in five basic types: (1) Ballasted, (2) Fully-Adhered,(3) Mechanically-Fastened, (4) Partially-Adhered, and (5) Self-Adhered. Seams of Single-Ply Membranes can be heat welded, solvent welded, and adhered using seam tape or other adhesives.

EPDM
:Rubber based membrane, typically black.

TPO
:Thermoplastic (i.e. heat membrane to weld together), typically white.

PVC
:Typically white, holds up to most chemicals (i.e. grease, fats, petroleum products).

ThermoPlastic Olefin

This type of system provides long-term durability and the security of heat-welded TPO’s advantages include:

  • TPO traditionally has a white 'reflective surface' which reduces cooling costs.
  • TPO roofing systems are the most environmentally friendly of the single-ply systems.
  • They produce no dioxins or chlorine. Membranes come in varying thicknesses to meet your specific requirements and are available in varying roll widths.

Poly Vinyl Chloride

These systems are among the easiest single-ply roofing membranes to install and heat-weld together.

  • These systems are able to resist various chemical effluents.
  • They provide superior resistance to punctures and tears.
  • PVC systems are especially suited for roofs that are exposed to concentrations of grease, oils and many kinds of fuels.
  • In areas where acid rain or other forms of acidic outflow is a problem, PVC roofs are the preferred solution.

Ethlyene Propylene Diene Terpolymer

This system is a black single-ply membrane, often referred to as "rubber roofing."

  • EPDM systems require minimal maintenance and are resistant to UV radiation and ozone.
  • EPDM technology has proven effective for more than 30 years.
  • It withstands temperature extremes and expands and contracts with the building.
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