Because they’re flexible, durable and amazingly weather-resistant, single-ply roofing systems have grown in popularity with low-slope facility owners and managers. High quality EPDM, TPO and PVC membranes, manufactured under strict quality controls, are suitable for both new roof and re-roofing projects. Installation methods vary, depending on the type of commercial roofing system selected and other criteria, but in all cases, professional installation is critical to the life and success of the roof.
Single ply roofing systems are among the most widely used solutions for commercial flat and low-slope roofs due to their durability, flexibility, and ease of installation. A single ply membrane roofing system uses a single layer of synthetic material to create a watertight barrier, helping reduce seams and potential leak points when properly installed.
Mechanically Attached Roof Installation
A mechanically attached membrane secures to the roof substrate using individual fasteners. Depending on the roof decking, the fasteners could be concrete screws, nails, augers or other types of penetrating fasteners. If the facility has a steel or wood roof deck, if installation will take place in cool weather, or if the new membrane will be installed over an existing roof, mechanical attachment could be the best choice. A mechanically attached roof is affordable and relatively quick to install.
Most single ply membrane roofing systems include materials such as TPO, PVC, and EPDM, each offering different advantages depending on climate, building use, and installation requirements. Angi points out that these systems are widely used in commercial roofing due to their flexibility and long-term performance.
Fully-Adhered Roof Installation
Proper installation is critical to the long-term performance of any roofing system, as the attachment method directly impacts durability, wind resistance, and waterproofing.
A fully-adhered roof system features the use of adhesive to hold the membrane in place. We might recommend a fully-adhered installation if your facility’s roof is unsuitable for mechanical attachment. A fully-adhered membrane offers increased wind uplift resistance on structurally sound roofs, and it can be a good choice where substrate penetrations must be avoided.
Single ply membrane roofing systems are typically installed using mechanically attached, fully adhered, or ballasted methods, depending on building structure and performance requirements.
Ballasted Roof Installation
For centuries, ship captains have used stones and sand as ballast to stabilize their ships on stormy seas. Likewise, a ballasted roof features a layer of gravel, washed river rock or paving stones, placed over the membrane to secure it. The ballast also protects the membrane from harsh UV rays and can do double duty as a roof-top plaza, patio or garden spot, if desired.
Induction Welded Roof Installation
Where mechanical attachment is feasible, but fewer penetrations are desirable, heat induction welding might be the answer. Induction welding systems, such as RhinoBond, feature coated plates, which attach to the roof deck before the membrane is installed. Once the membrane is in place, a special induction-welding tool bonds the membrane to the plates. The need for additional penetrating fasteners is reduced by as much as 50%.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is single ply roofing?
Single ply roofing is a commercial roofing system that uses a single layer of membrane material, such as TPO, PVC, or EPDM, to create a waterproof barrier over a roof deck.
What is single ply membrane roofing used for?
Single ply membrane roofing is primarily used on commercial and industrial flat or low-slope roofs where durability, flexibility, and energy efficiency are important.
How long does single ply roofing last?
Most systems last between 20 and 30 years depending on material type, installation quality, and maintenance.
What are the main types of single ply roofing?
The most common types of commercial roofing are TPO, PVC, and EPDM, each offering different benefits for specific building conditions.
Is single ply roofing energy efficient?
Yes, many single ply membrane roofing systems, especially TPO and PVC, are highly reflective and help reduce heat absorption, improving energy efficiency.
What’s the Best Roof Installation Method for My Facility?
Roof structure, intended facility use, climate and budget all play a part in selecting a roofing system and method of installation. At North American Roofing, we carefully analyze all aspects to determine the type of membrane and installation method best suited for your specific facility. We install all major brands of single-ply systems, and no matter what type of installation method we use, we make it a point not to interfere with your day-to-day business routine. Not all installation methods are suitable for all types of roofing systems, so a reputable roofing contractor must be involved in the scope designing process.
When planning a roofing installation, factors such as insulation type, drainage design, and environmental exposure all play a critical role in overall system performance.
Single ply roofing continues to be a leading choice for commercial roofing systems due to its versatility, energy efficiency, and proven durability. Understanding the key considerations of single ply membrane roofing installation helps ensure long-term performance and reduced maintenance costs.
