Single-Ply Membranes Have Many Advantages over Other Types of Flat Roofing
A common practice in the construction of commercial buildings and industrial complexes is the installation of a flat roof system. For many years, these systems included multiple layers of materials which were (still are) effective in their own right, but are now steadily being replaced by single-ply membranes.
For the owners and managers of commercial and industrial properties, there are several reasons for/advantages to choosing single-ply membranes for their flat roof needs; these benefits would include:
- Simple/fast to install – results in lower installation costs
- Maintenance and repair costs are usually generally lower
- Longer lifespan – extends time until replacement needed
- A removed single-ply flat roof membrane can be recycled
- Offer ease-of-access for purposes of maintenance, repairs
- Can be easily converted/adapted for green roof installations
- Less potential for storm damage – material is not easily torn
- Provide a level/flat surface for equipment such as HVAC units
- Energy efficient – less unused space under roof to heat or cool
- Resists damage from UV rays – fewer repairs/less deterioration
In terms of the types of single-ply roofing membranes, building owners/managers can choose from the following materials for their flat roof:
- EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer)
- Ecologically friendly – constructed of synthetic rubber
- Installation is less labour-intensive thus more cost-effective
- Available in larger (wider) sheets and thereby has fewer seams
- Lifespan of 30-50 years; most repairs are reasonably inexpensive
- Can be installed with mechanical fasteners or by using an adhesive
- Withstands Toronto’s weather conditions and temperature fluctuations
- Offers waterproofing properties versus rainstorms and melting snow/ice
- Does not add pollutants (such as oils and chemicals) to storm-water run-off
- TPO versus EPDM Commercial Flat Roofing Systems
- TPO (thermoplastic olefin)
- Cost-effective installation (faster; less labour needed)
- Is white in colour – helps lower energy costs in summer
- Resistant to tearing, fungus growth, dirt accumulation, etc.
- Eco-friendly – TPO flat roof membranes are 100% recyclable
- Resistant to damage from UV rays, chemicals, acids, oils, etc.
- Resistant to punctures from natural sources or foreign objects
- Remains pliable/flexible under very cold temperature conditions
- Can be installed over an existing roof (under specific conditions)
- Available in greater widths – fewer seams to seal (or fail or repair)
- PVC (polyvinyl chloride)
- Good durability – due to heat-welded seams that form a watertight seal
- Tapes, adhesives, caulks/sealants are not needed as with other systems
- Energy efficient – heat-reflective properties resulting in lower cooling bills
- Can also be installed over existing roof systems (saves time/removal cost)
- Highly resistant to strong winds, chemical exposure, ignition, fire or flames
- Not affected by exposure to fungus, bacteria, or plant material (green roofs)
- PVC Flat Roofing Membranes and Their Advantages
With respect to the cost of single-ply membrane flat roof installations or repairs, several factors must be taken into consideration, including
- The type of the material
- The thickness of the material
- The surface area to be addressed
Quality Flat Roof Installation and Repairs for Toronto and the Surrounding Area
When it comes to flat roofing, independent of the type of single-ply membrane chosen, commercial/industrial property owners will have several expectations in common::
- Effective performance
- Longest lifespan possible
- Maximum return on investment
In turn, the quality of the initial installation as well as any requisite repairs throughout the life of the single-ply membrane will have a direct impact on satisfying these goals.
For 15-plus years, Can-Sky Roofing has provided skilled flat roof installations and repairs for commercial and industrial property owners in Toronto and its surrounding area. The crews from Can-Sky Roofing are fully trained and certified to install all types of single-ply flat roof systems, including EPDM, TPO, and PVC membranes, for various and diverse facilities and structures.
For further information on the scope of flat roof systems and repairs offered by the team at Can-Sky Roofing in Toronto, see our Flat Roof Systems page.
Call the flat roof installation and repair specialists at Can-Sky Roofing in Toronto today at 647-691-0487 or contact us for a free quote on your commercial roofing needs.