FAQs
What is a single-ply roof?
A single-ply roof is a light-weight thermoplastic membrane, usually white, that can be installed over an existing roof. Sections are fused together with a process called hot-air welding, which creates a watertight seal. The white roof reflects light, rather than absorbing it, which pays off in lower energy costs to power the building’s HVAC system. Single-ply roofs are used in many LEED-certified green buildings.
How is a single-ply roof different from a traditional built-up roof?
A traditional built-up roof is usually black, constructed in layers with hot asphalt to make it watertight.
What are the benefits of a single-ply roof?
Benefits of white, single-ply membrane roofs include HVAC-related energy savings, resistance to wear and tear, and longevity.
What is daylighting?
“Daylighting” refers to the use of a special type of skylight to light building interiors with direct, diffused or reflected sunlight. Daylighting improves indoor light quality with natural sunlight, thereby improving the health and productivity of the occupants, while reducing energy costs—a daylighting system can pay for itself in as little as two to three years.
What criteria should I use in choosing a roofer?
Anyone can call himself a roofer simply by picking up supplies and throwing them into a truck. Roofing is not a regulated trade like plumbing and electric. You should look for an established firm with a demonstrated track record and local references where you can go and see the workmanship.
What is PVC (polyvinyl chloride) made of?
PVC single-ply membrane roofing is one of the longest-lasting roofing systems currently available. The first PVC-based systems were installed in Germany and Switzerland in the early 1960s, and they migrated to North America a decade later. PVC is durable, puncture and impact-resistant, and flame-resistant.
What is EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) made of?
EPDM membrane roofing systems are based on a high-performance synthetic rubber compound that provides outstanding weather resistance. Durability, design versatility and ease of installation make EPDM a popular roofing choice for new and replacement roofs for office buildings, warehouses, hospitals, schools and more.
What is TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) made of?
Rapidly growing in popularity, TPO single-ply membrane roofs are engineered to provide excellent performance at a cost-effective price. TPO roofing systems resist ultraviolet, ozone and chemical exposure.
What is MB (modified bitumen) made of?
European engineers developed modified bitumen membrane roofing in the 1960s, and the material has been used for U.S. roofs since the mid-’70s. MB roofing is asphalt-based, with synthetic materials added to give it plastic- or rubber-like properties.