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Single-ply roofing simply refers to a roofing system consisting of one layer of material. There are several types of single-ply membranes, usually designated by the initials of their principal chemical compound. Ferguson & Melvin Co. installs several different single-ply roof systems, including: TPO, PVC, and EPDM. When selecting a single-ply system, it is imperative that the choice is tailored to the specific project. Consult with your Ferguson & Melvin representative for recommendations for your job.
Single-ply roof systems are typically used for low-slope commercial roof applications. They can be applied using various techniques and are specified as either ballasted, fully-adhered, or mechanically-attached. How it is installed varies according the type of the substrate it is being applied to, wind rating, and other factors, as well.
There are many advantages to single-ply roof systems – they are lightweight and provide a cost effective solution for meeting California’s Title 24 cool roof standards. They are safer to install because they don’t require any open flames or hot asphalt to install. Single-ply systems are also relatively easy to maintain and repairs are very simple for certified professionals. And, unlike traditional asphalt based roofing, most single-ply roof warranties do NOT exclude areas of minor water ponding.
Single-ply systems are not always the best choice for small projects or residential applications. This is because the application of the material is more labor intensive than with traditional built-up or torch-down roofing systems, unless the job is a large wide-open roof. This is where single-ply becomes cost-effective. Also, there are fewer roofing contractors qualified to install single-ply roofing, and the equipment to install can be very costly – so you will have fewer contractors to choose from.
The selection of single-ply types, thicknesses, and colors is vast. For our purposes here, we are listing the three top single-ply manufacturers that we recommend. As you will see, each company has a wide variety of membranes, and the prices vary widely depending on the system you choose.
click on any membrane listed to see product specifications
TPO stands for thermo-plastic polyolefin and is one of the fastest growing single-ply roofing materials in California. It generally comes in thicknesses of 45 mil, 60 mil, and 80 mil – in both a standard sheet and a fleeceback sheet (FB). We are not showing the 80 mil product here, as it has limited applications. TPO is comprised of materials combined in a thermal reactor at a molecular level; once combined, the molecules fuse together and cannot be separated. TPO is one of the most recyclable materials on the market. With built-in ultra-violet protection, it is also one of the most weather-resistant. Because it is a polymer, it is a great insulator and it does not conduct sound, electricity, or heat. Due to the structure of the material, TPO stands up to even the most extreme weather conditions without expanding or contracting. This is why the automotive industry uses it in fenders, bumpers, doors, and other body moldings. TPO is also very impact resistant and resilient, making it a prime choice when considering roofing systems that will stand up to hail conditions. Although white is the most common color and is required to meet Title 24, TPO is available in gray and tan, as well.
All systems shown here carry anywhere from a 10 yr. to a 25 yr. warranty, depending on the system you choose. Ask your Ferguson & Melvin Co. representative for more information.
click on any membrane listed to see product specifications
PVC stands for polyvinyl chloride and is comprised of carbon, hydrogen, and chlorine on a molecular level. . It generally comes in thicknesses of 50 mil, 60 mil, and 80 mil – in both a standard sheet and a fleeceback sheet (FB). We are not showing the 80 mil product here, as it has limited applications. Like TPO, when PVC is heated sufficiently, certain molecules temporarily shift from a solid to a semi-solid state, enabling the sheets that are overlapped to fuse together as a solid, upon cooling. This process yields one, continuous membrane rather than several compressed particles. This process, referred to as heat-welded seam technology, is one of the most beneficial features of PVC. First appearing on roofs in Europe in the 1960s, PVC has the longest track record in roofing membranes of all thermoplastics. Manufacturers produce a large array of colors, including white, which is heat reflective. With the low-temperature flexibility and high-temperature tolerance points of the membrane, PVC is very flame resistant, impact resistant and resilient. Many roofs throughout the United States that were installed 20 years ago are still performing well to-date. It’s main advantage over TPO is its superior chemical resistance. However, it is generally a more expensive option than TPO.
All systems shown here carry anywhere from a 10 yr. to a 25 yr. warranty, depending on the system you choose. Ask your Ferguson & Melvin Co. representative for more information.
click on any membrane listed to see product specifications
EPDM membrane roofing is installed using a special type of adhesive. These adhesives are either applied as a tape that sticks two sheets of EPDM membrane together or as a liquid that bonds the two sheets together on a molecular level. When repairing an EPDM membrane roof, there is no need for heavy tools or equipment, which gives it an advantage over TPO and PVC. High wind and hot temperatures are not a problem for an EPDM membrane roof. Only temperatures of -45 degrees can cause potential problems, but these temperatures are almost unheard of in Southern California. It’s main drawback is availability in the Southern California market. Some believe the adhesive technology is less reliable than the heat-welded seam technology used in TPO and PVC applications. But, EPDM can be less costly than other single-ply systems, especially on very large projects. It comes in much larger roll sizes, which minimizes roof seams and installation costs. It traditionally is a black rubber membrane, which makes it unacceptable for Title 24 cool roofing. However, certain manufacturers do make EPDM in white, and these are the membranes that we list here.
Ferguson & Melvin Co. supervises all of our single-ply installations and guarantees the highest level of quality and service from our staff on the roof and in the field. We strive to provide the best suitable single- ply roofing product, designed to meet your roofing needs.
Call our office today at (800) 974-ROOF or click here to request a quote.
