Single Ply Roofing Systems & the Advantages

Single ply roofing systems come with numerous benefits, starting with the fact that they last as long as 40 years. They are not only strong but durable, eco-friendly and they are available in a wide range of materials, colors, and styles. In addition to this, single ply roofing systems are lightweight easing construction and offering rapid installation.

Single ply roofs provide great dimensional stability, high tear and puncture resistance and high tensile strength. They are also resistant to UV and ozone exposure, rough weather conditions, fire, and chemicals. There is usually no need for heavy equipment during installation and the application of the membrane can be done in inclement weather.

Single ply roofing systems can either be flexible or semi-flexible. It is typically a membrane made from rubber or other plastic materials and it comes in three major categories;

· Thermosets

· Thermoplastic

· Modified Bitumen

Thermoset – This type is compounded from rubber polymers and the most common type is EPDM or ethylene propylene diene monomer. Thermoset roofing materials are excellent at resisting UV light and ozone as well as other chemicals found on roofs.

Thermoplastic – These are based more on plastic polymers and most of these membranes are made with an enforcement layer that could either be fiberglass or polyester. This layer provides stability and strength. PVC or poly-vinyl-chloride is the most common thermoplastic membrane and it has great weathering characteristics, long-term flexibility as well as tensile strength. It is also resistant to harsh chemicals as well as industrial pollutants. These membranes are able to withstand rain, heat, extreme temperature fluctuations and many other contaminants. PVC membranes have heat wieldable seams that provide a strong and watertight seal.

Modified bitumen – These membranes are hybrid products combining the formulation of single ply and other techniques used in built-up roofs. The materials are normally factory fabricated asphalt layers modified using plastic or rubber ingredients to increase flexibility. Then they are combined with another reinforcing agent to add strength and durability.

Installation

When applying single ply roofing systems, there are normally three fastening options available for installation. The roof can either be fully adhered, mechanically attached or fully ballasted. All have pros and cons. Most of the white thermoplastic materials are usually installed with the mechanical attachment method and is very popular in North America

Single ply roofs are some of the best in the market because they can withstand harsh elements. While installing this type of roof, you can be confident about the ability of the system to protect your investment for numerous years. With a high puncture and tear resistance, energy efficiency and UV stabilization, single ply roofing systems are a great solution for both residential and commercial buildings.

If you combine all they with ease of installation and simple repairs you can do yourself, it’s easy to see why a single roofing system would be a great roofing choice. A lot of things have to be considered while installing a roof including building height, anticipated roof traffic, wind exposure, aesthetics and costs and with different single ply roofing options, you need a qualified Michigan roofing expert to advise you on the best choice for your building.