What Every Business Owner Should Know About Single Ply Roofing Systems

What Every Business Owner Should Know About Single Ply Roofing Systems. Single-ply roofing systems have dominated the roofing market during the last few years. They have become a trendy option between owners of commercial buildings. 

Typically, these single-ply roofing systems are made of segments of flexible membranes and insulation. Other building materials such as fasteners, adhesives, flashings, and gravel complete the structure. The gravel contributes to seal and keep the roof in place.

What-Every-Business-Owner-Should-Know-About-Single-Ply-Roofing-Systems

Among the advantages of this type of roof are:

  • Easy installation
  • They are cost-efficient
  • They are robust and withstand weather elements 

These features make them a great option for owners of large facilities requiring flat roofs that will see little foot traffic. Single-ply materials owe their significant acceptance in the market to these advantages and their performance.

Nowadays, there are many roofing systems options and styles available. Therefore, if you have a commercial building, you must know what a single-ply roofing system can do to protect your business.

If you are planning to install a new roof in your commercial building, here you will get what you need to know about single-ply roofing systems.

Single-ply Roofs Are Easy to Install and Configure

Unlike complex multi-layered roofing systems, single-ply roofing membranes only have one layer, so they are flexible and lightweight. Besides, their installation is easier than most other roofing systems, requiring less time, materials, and labor. 

Every roofing installation is as unique as each building layout. However, these membranes are usually installed in large sectors. Besides, roofers attach them to the roof employing adhesive, ballasting, or mechanical fasteners.

Also, they affix segments of plastic membranes using heat. With these membranes, you will provide your roof with a waterproof seal. The best of all is that you will use only one layer of material.

On the other hand, built-up roofs imply more building materials than single-ply roofs. These more complex systems consist of several layers of sheets and adhesive. Besides, they are finished with a coating layer.

Single-ply Roofs Are Cost-Efficient

Since this system requires less material, labor, and a lower time of installation implies a lower cost compared to other types of roofing systems. So, single-ply roofs are an excellent, cost-efficient roofing alternative. 

Prices may change based on the kind of membrane you use. Yet, it is typically less costly to install and upkeep than shingled, metal, or built-up roofing systems. Moreover, if you are flexible about the membrane’s thickness and color, you can save even more money. For instance, you can find many roofing membranes in white. This color is perfect for Florida buildings due to its solar-reflective properties, helping to decrease energy expenses.

They Are Durable to Mother Nature, But Not People

Single-ply roofing systems are renowned because of their resistance to rain, debris, wind, and UV radiation. Indeed, they can endure the impact of these factors for decades when correctly installed. 

Nevertheless, we do not recommend installing single-ply roofing systems on roofs with high foot traffic. Since there is only one layer of roofing material, it would get perforations readily. 

Do you expect a large number of people walking on your roof? Then, a single-ply roofing system would not be the best option for your property. Also, depending on the location of your property, you should consider other factors like the installation procedure.

Ballasting may not be appropriate or even permitted in some regions of Tennessee due to the possibility of hurricanes. The high winds might send the gravel used to weigh down the roof flying away, risking others.

The main types of single-ply membranes used to commercial building coverage are:

  • Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO), 
  • Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), also called vinyl, and 
  • Ethylene Propylene Diene Terpolymer (EPDM). 

They vary in their chemical composition, their installation methods, and energy efficiencies.

To ensure the proper performance of a single-ply roof system, it is necessary to hire a professional roofing contractor. Besides, check your manufacturer’s publication guides.

Do you think a single-ply roofing system is suitable for your commercial building? Contact Republic Roofing & Restoration at 901-437-5278. You will talk with a roofing specialist about the optimum material and installation procedure for your property in Collierville, ad Memphis, TN.