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Single-layer roofing membranes have become increasingly popular in the last few decades or so – and for good reason. They are an economical roofing choice, and often provide ample space to install rooftop AC units, solar panels, and lush rooftop gardens. Nonetheless, before you hire a roofing expert to repair your roof, it is crucial to know which type of roofing membrane is best for your property.
In this post, we are going to expound on 5 common types of roofing membranes. We’ll also cover how they’re used to repair roofing.
PVC is hands down the most widely used single-layer roofing membrane in Brooklyn and everywhere else, accounting for about 75 percent of the global market. It’s fairly affordable, flexible, and easy to install. Best of all, it comes in a broad variety of colors. When being laid, the joints are usually heat-welded together.
When it comes to roofing repairs, PVC can only be installed over bitumen roofing with an isolating layer. Truth be told, PVC is not an ideal solution for repairs; you might want to check out other types of single-ply roofing membranes.
Short for Thermoplastic Polyolefin, TPO roofing membranes were first used in the 1980s. It’s least used by residential contractors, but quite popular in civil engineering. TPO vinyl has been hailed to be environmentally-friendlier than PVC. The downside is that they can’t be welded when dirty and offer a limited color variety (available in a narrow range of grays).
Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) is an elastic, rubber-like roofing membrane that’s popular among roofing repair companies. It is very affordable but comes only in black. When doing repairs, roofers tape welds and points of water ingression. It is often ballasted to improve fire-resistance rating.
TPE roofing membrane is an improved version of Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO), and they share myriads of characteristics. The standout feature is that TPEs are super easy to install and 100% recyclable.
Repairs can be done through the re-healing process where small punctures are resealed using heat application. If the extent of damage is big on TPO or PVC roofing, TPE patches are used to repair through torch or heat applied technique.
PIB is the oldest existing roofing membrane, invented back in the 1930s. Interestingly, it’s made from Oppanol (the chewing gum base) and is 100% recyclable. With a self-sealing edge, PIB roofing membrane is a favorite for roofing repairs. And it’s easy to install. Repairs are made through self-adhered technique.
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Construction, Home Improvement