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What to Expect from Working with a Single-Ply Roofer

Posted on Thursday, June 15th, 2023 at 8:00 am    

Roofers can be there for you at any time of the year. By performing regular inspections and minor repairs with precision and care, they are sure to keep the roof of your commercial property in the best shape possible. But even when you keep up with maintenance, roofs do not last forever. There may come a time when you are in need of a new roofing system, due to your current roof simply surpassing its lifespan. In this case, you will hire a local roofer whose portfolio proves them to be experienced with your type of roof. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about single-ply roofers, in particular.

PVC single-ply roof

What is single-ply roofing?

Single-ply roofing systems consist of strong, flexible sheets of thermoplastic membranes. They are manufactured with strict quality control requirements in mind. Over the past few decades, these systems have increasingly grown in popularity on account of their strength and longevity. They are now known to be a favorite of roofing contractors, architects, and building owners.

The reason for this is that pre-fabricated sheets allow for maximum freedom of choice in roof design. To use this material on a variety of building applications, single-ply roofers enjoy the versatility in their attachment methods. This includes fully adhered, mechanically attached, ballasted, and metal retrofit systems. Along with their flexibility comes a great appearance that can suit any new construction build or current commercial property in need of a refresh.

Fun Fact: In 2021, the global single-ply roofing market size was valued at USD 3.678 million. It is projected to reach 6.405 million by the year 2030.

What are the types of single-ply roofing systems?

There are three roofing systems that single-ply roofers can help you with, which have their own unique characteristics. They include:

PVC Roofing

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a synthetic, thermoplastic polymer. Made by heat-welding the seams to allow the roofing system to expand and contract as needed, the installation process of PVC roofing is relatively straightforward. The commercial roofing industry has been using this robust material since the 1960s. In southern climates, in particular, PVC is a good choice because it is highly reflective, meaning it keeps the heat out. Because of this benefit, PVC roofing is most notably used for restaurants and other smaller commercial buildings.

TPO Roofing

Thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) is the most economical type of single-ply membrane, made from a blend of polypropylene and ethylene-propylene rubber. It was first introduced to the roofing industry in the 1990s. Single-ply roofers began using this roofing system as what was intended to be an improved version of PVC. That said, TPO lacks the amount of flexibility that PVC has, as well as has a comparatively shorter average lifespan. Still, TPO roofing systems are advantageous for the sake of their layer of synthetic membrane and reinforced scrim for stability.

EPDM Roofing

epdm single-ply roof

Ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) is a synthetic rubber. This roofing membrane comes in a large roll and is best used on large commercial buildings. That includes office buildings, shopping centers, hotels, warehouses, and even university stadiums. EDPM roofing comes in large rolls, with the most common width being 10 feet but ranging up to 50. Because these membranes are often 100% cured by the time they arrive on site, there is no need to delay the installation process. With its excellent weathering qualities, an EDPM roofing system is prepared to take on any hail or freeze.

What are the benefits of single-ply roofing?

Single-ply roofing systems are a cost-effective and easy-to-install choice for commercial properties. The primary advantages of working with a single-ply roofer include that this material is:

Resistant to Natural Elements

In the event of severe storms, you want a roofing system that will be able to stand up to water intrusion. All three single-ply membranes have fantastic waterproofing capabilities. Their watertight seams provide a continuous barrier against leaks.

Lightweight

Compared to other roofing materials that have multiple layers, single-ply systems are very lightweight. This reduces the structural load on the building. It also helps with making the installation process more efficient, considering that single-ply roofers can easily handle and maneuver the material.

Durable

Single-ply roofing systems have a high tear and break strength. They will not suffer major problems when exposed to chemical materials or damaging ultraviolet light. Plus, single-ply roofers find that, when applied with a hot air weld, this membrane can protect your roof from changing weather.

Eco-Friendly

Single-ply roofing systems are among the most sustainable roofing materials on account of how they are produced. At the end of their lifespan, the membranes can be recycled. Because they are able to be transformed into a new material, your investment helps to reduce waste.

Is single-ply roofing right for my building?What Do I Need to Patch My Roof?

Single-ply roofing systems are a time-tested option. As mentioned, they can be suitable for a wide range of commercial building types, given their flexibility. This is particularly true if your building has a flat or low-sloped roofing style. But before all else, you need to evaluate your property’s specific roofing needs.

A roofing company that specializes in single-ply will be able to discuss this with you. They are highly equipped to determine whether your hotel, office building, retail store, healthcare facility, or recreation facility should be using single-ply. In fact, the professional single-ply roofers at Kidd Roofing have installed a PVC roof at the University of Texas at Austin’s (UT) Dell Pediatrics building, TPO roofs at UT Disch-Falk Field and AMD Lonestar, and EPDM roofs at UT DKR Memorial Stadium!

Kidd Roofing is the single-ply roofer you need!

Are you interested in working with a single-ply roofer who has decades of experience? As one of the nation’s top 100 roofing contractors, Kidd Roofing is an expert in all things related to commercial and residential roofing. Since our start, we have provided property owners in the Houston, San Antonio, Dallas, Austin, and Denver areas with the quality of service they deserve. Our goal is to get you a roof that can truly stand the test of time. Contact us to get your roofing estimate now and learn more about how we can help you.