Thermoplastic Roof Systems

Thermoplastic (Heat-Welded) PVC & TPO Single-Ply Roof Systems

Thermoplastic membranes are membranes with polymers or plasticizers that are not chemically vulcanized or cross-linked together. Because of the chemical make-up of a thermoplastic membrane, the seams & flashings can be heat-welded by air or by solvents. The two most recognized Thermoplastic membranes are PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) and TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin). Even though seams & flashings are typically heat-welded, careful attention is still required. Thermoplastic roof membranes are lightweight, flexible, energy efficient, aesthetically pleasing & are usually white in color. Some thermoplastic manufacturers do offer colors other than white. Most manufacturers produce reinforced 45 mil to 90 mil thick membranes. Sheet widths range from 6′ to 12″ in width. Thermoplastic membranes can be mechanically fastened, adhered & ballasted.

Manufacturers

  • Carlisle
  • Dow Roofing System
  • Fiber Tite
  • Firestone
  • GAF Roof Systems
  • Johns Manville
  • Sika Sarnafil

Thermo-set Roof Membrane

Thermo-Set (Elastomeric) Single-Ply Roof Membrane

Thermo-set membranes are membranes with principle polymers chemically vulcanized together. Membranes that are vulcanized are also referred to as “cured” membranes. The most recognized Thermo-set membrane is EPDM (ethylene propylene siene monomer). Because the membrane is fully cured, adhesives & tapes are required to seam the cured membrane together. Seams & flashings require careful attention, however with advanced seaming techniques & pre-assembled roof accessories, these types of roof membranes do perform very well. EPDM is lightweight, flexible & is usually black. Some EPDM manufacturers do offer white. Most EPDM manufacturers produce 45 mil to 90 mil thick membranes. Sheet widths can range from 7.5′ to 50′. The membranes come available reinforced & non-reinforced, fire retardant & non-fire retardant. Thermo-set membranes can be mechanically fastened, adhered or ballasted.

Manufacturers

  • Firestone
  • Carlisle

Roof Coatings

Roof coating manufacturers produce different types of coatings with different types of chemicals based upon the surface being coated. Roof coatings may be sprayed, rolled or brushed onto the roof surface to form a monolithic barrier. Roof coatings can be applied to polyurethane foam insulation, single-ply membranes, aged B.U.R., modified and metal roof systems. Coatings are typically white which produces a reflective quality to the roof system it is applied onto. When a roof coating is installed as a waterproof system, it is typically over a metal roof system. Most of the coatings applied by Imperial Roof Systems Co are either polyurethane or acrylic based.

Manufacturers

  • ERSystems
  • Conklin