The Main Characteristics that Define Single-Ply Roofing
If you’ve been considering single-ply roofing membranes for your next roofing overhaul – and we wouldn’t blame you – it may be interesting to learn that they come in a plethora of materials for you to select from. The main characteristics that define single-ply roofing systems have to do with the fact that they’re intended to be installed in one layer (hence their name); they are also characterized by formidable flexibility and are resistant to UV radiation as compared to other products. Are you in need of single-ply roofing in New Braunfels, TX? You’ve come to the right place.
Types of Membranes
Single-ply membranes are typically categorized into two groups:
- Thermosets – These membranes are compounded from synthetic rubber polymers, with the most popular polymers being EPDM, CSPE and Neoprene.
- Thermoplastics – Seams on single-ply thermoplastic membranes can be welded together via hot air to form cohesive “laps;” when these membranes cool, they return to the material they were originally comprised of. Two of the most commonly-recognized and used single-ply thermoplastic membranes are TPO and PVC, both categorized as plastic-based materials.
Thermoplastic membranes are manufactured to typically include a reinforcement layer, normally fiberglass or polyester, that provides additional stability and strength. Furthermore, both types of membranes exhibit highly flexible characteristics, showing resistance to ultraviolet radiation. Thermosets and thermoplastics are relatively easy to install, but on the flip side of that coin they’re also often incompatible and cannot be used in conjunction with other single-style roofing systems.
Single-Ply Roofing Installation Methods
What determines the installation type when going with single-ply roofing in Central Texas depends on each unique structure and situation.
- Ballasted Roof – This is often the preferred installation procedure when the structural roof can actually withstand additional loads; nonetheless, in cases when the roof boasts a slope in excess of one to six-inches, this method might not be the best choice.
- Steel or Wood Roof – This option might be ideal for single-ply mechanically-fastened membrane roofing, as single-ply mechanically-fastened roofing may be used on all types of slopes devoid of limitations, making them one of the preferred options in hurricane-prone areas.
- Fully Adhere Single-Ply Roofing – As another option to consider, the membrane here is attached by way of an adhesive suggested by the manufacturer, and it could be solvent-based, asphalt or water-based. In utilizing this installation method, the finished surface yields a smooth appearance, and can be used in conjunction with colored membranes to yield awe-inspiring aesthetic surfaces.
Pros of Single-Ply Roofing
If you have been considering single-ply roofing in New Braunfels, TX, here is a summary of the benefits you can expect to reap:
• Excellent against acid rain conditions
• Excellent performance under dramatic weather changes
• Will not succumb to major problems under presence of chemical agents
• Wide variety of grades available to select (type of “production desire” requested of product)
• Lightweight characteristics
• Excellent reflective properties
• Easy install
• Economically feasible
Some experts say that a few minor aspects of single-ply roofing should be “watched out for,” including a thinner surface that can be punctuated, a relatively short lifespan, seam problems and water-retention issues that may arise, but by and large it’s a wholly sustainable material for commercial roofing projects.
Single-ply roofing membranes have grown in popularity over the last 30 years, and because of their flexibility, relative ease of installation and competitive price, it’s no wonder that building owners and facilities professionals are interested.
