The Benefits Of Single-Ply Membrane Roofing And The Ways It Can Be Installed
Single-ply roofing is one of the most popular roofing options for commercial buildings that have flat roofs. If your building will need a flat roof soon, talk to a contractor about the pros and cons of the different types of single-ply roofing. Here's a look at the benefits of this type of roofing and how it's installed.
The Benefits Of Single Ply-Roofing
This type of roofing is made of rubber or plastic that provides excellent protection against leaking since the material is waterproof. These roofing materials are supplied in rolls, and the seams are sealed in different ways so water can't leak under the membranes.
The roofing is also tough, so it lasts a long time. While the roofing membranes resist punctures, it's possible for damage to occur. However, repairs are easy to do by applying patches. Single-ply roofing is lightweight and easy to apply. This is also an affordable type of roofing, which makes it practical for buildings with large roofs.
The Ways Single-Ply Roofing Seams Are Sealed
Single-ply roofing contractors use the seam-sealing method that matches the type of roofing material you choose for your building. There are two basic types of roofing membranes. One is thermoplastic, and this type is installed by heat-welding the seams together so the roofing sheets fuse together to make a watertight seal. Thermoplastic membranes are roofing materials made of plastics such as PVC or TPO.
The other type of single-ply roofing is thermoset membranes, and this type of roofing is installed by joining seams together with tape or adhesive to keep rain from leaking under the membrane. Thermoset membranes are also called rubber or EPDM roofing.
Your roofing contractor can help you choose the right type of membrane for your roof. You might want a white membrane to keep your building cooler in the summer or a black membrane if you want your building warmer in the winter. Other considerations are chemical or acidic exposure potential and the amount of foot traffic expected on the roof.
The Roofing Installation Methods
Single-ply roofing is attached to roofs in different ways. They might be ballasted by covering the surface with an aggregate, such as gravel. The membranes can also be attached with adhesive or mechanically fastened.
Your contractor will discuss the best installation method for your building, taking into account things such as how much foot traffic will be on the roof and if appearance matters. For instance, gravel not only holds the membrane in place, but it also provides protection against damage and makes the roof have a more attractive appearance.
To learn more, contact a single-ply roofing contractor.