Single-ply roofing systems are one of the more common options for flat commercial and industrial buildings, though the descriptor “flat” is a bit of a misnomer. The roof still has a slight incline, allowing water and debris to slide off. However, since the slope is milder, the material used to create and coat it differs from typical residential roofs with high peaks and steep slopes.
Single-ply refers to a membrane material that’s installed on the roof. They’re created with either thermoset or thermoplastic materials. Both are polymers, but they react differently to heat. Thermoplastics are more susceptible to damage and melting due to exposure to heat, but thermosets can maintain their shape after they’ve been cured, no matter the level of sun exposure they experience. Thermoplastics can be melted, re-melted, and reused, but thermosets stay frozen in the shape they are cured into. Both remain extremely durable no matter the weather conditions they’re up against, and experts are able to determine what the best option for your property would be.
Single-ply membranes have fewer seams than other systems that are rolled on and are therefore simpler to install, and fewer seams means fewer opportunities for leaks. That makes them a cost-effective choice for business owners, but the benefits go far beyond the installation difficulty. One of the most notable improvements is the insulation of the building, which the single-ply coating assists with, lowering energy costs and making the building more comfortable.
Single-ply membranes are typically made of either rubber or plastic synthetics. The membrane can be attached in a variety of ways. Most commonly, it’s either glued to the insulative layer of the roof or is held down with heavy materials that keep it in place. Different versions of the single-ply system have positive aspects that are most beneficial in certain situations.
Ballasted single-ply roofs are quick to install, making them especially cost-effective; attaching the material mechanically keeps the system lightweight but makes sure it’s bolted a bit more intensely. If you get the material fully adhered, that’s helpful for extreme weather events like high winds or for taller buildings that experience more gusts. You should consult an expert to find out what roofing system would be the best fit for your building.
Single-ply is thin and malleable, so the roofing doesn’t need reinforcement. The system also makes for inexpensive repairs that experts can handle relatively quickly. If properly maintained, the roofing system should last up to 40 years. The material is so trustworthy that the National Park Service uses membrane coatings to stop leakage in its restoration projects.
A building’s roof is just as important as its foundation. Contact Supreme Roofing Systems if you need assistance with a new roof or repairs to your existing building. What may seem like a small problem in the roof can quickly lead to a mountain of headaches and irreparable damage. Don’t take a risk and go with the best in the business. Supreme Roofing Systems is the top-rated roofing contractor in Bradford, so please,
contact us today for an estimate.
