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Single-Ply Roofing Services

Single-Ply Roofing Services

Is your commercial building in need of an update? Whatever your budget is, a single-ply roof could be the best option for you.

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Single-Ply Roofing Services

Is your commercial building in need of an update? Whatever your budget is, a single-ply roof could be the best option for you. Great for flat or low-sloping roofs, single-ply roofing materials have several advantages for business owners that are looking for affordable, quality roofing. If you are considering single-ply roofing in the Cedar Park, TX area, contact the Malachi Consulting Roof Specialists, (512) 520-0523.

What is a Single Ply Roofing System?

A single-ply roof consists of flexible sheets of synthetic polymer that can be divided into two groups: thermoplastics and synthetic rubber. These are better known as TPO and EPDM, but both do operate in similar ways. That being said, thermoplastics can be reheated and remolded, giving them an edge in becoming on of the most popular options for flat roofing.

The phrase single-ply roofing gets its name from the fact that this material is usually only one layer. In some instances, insulation can be added, but that is dependent on the needs of the building. Regardless, this material is great for flat or low-sloping roofs, like those found on commercial buildings. As we’ll discuss later, there are many variations of single-ply roofing which means, as a business owner, you need to make sure you’re working with a group of reputable single ply roofing contractors.

Malachi Consulting Roof Specialist can help with your single-plyroofing needs in the Cedar Park, TX area. Call us today, (512) 520-0523, to schedule an appointment or for any questions you may have about commercial or residential roofing.

Single Ply Roofing Pros and Cons

Like any other roofing material, there are many advantages and drawbacks in regards to single-ply roofing.

Pros:

  • Cost: Single-ply roofing is by far the cheapest option available for flat or low-sloping roofs. Because of this, business owners can get quite a bit of bang for their buck by choosing single-ply roofing like TPO or EPDM.
  • Easy installation: Of every roofing material, single-ply roofing is by far one of the easiest to install. Typically in sheet form, there are multiple ways to install TPO, EPDM, or PVC roofing and in many instances, extreme heat is not needed.
  • Energy efficient: Most single-ply roofing is light or white in color. This allows the material to reflect UV rays and the heat instead of absorbing it, like most asphalt shingle roofs. Business owners can see their energy bills decrease as their building stays cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.
  • Longevity: With a stellar single-ply roofing installation, a TPO or PVC roof can last for decades. And since there are little to no seams, there is less chance of deterioration, leaking, and other problems that could affect the roof decking.

Cons

  • Quality variation:  Lower prices can sometimes mean lower quality material and vice versa.the quality of material can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer.
  • Variation in thickness: Inexperienced roofers think that a thicker layer of material in a single ply roofing installation will mean that it will last longer. That is not necessarily true and ultimately wastes material and money.
  • Lamination: The top layer of a single ply roof is often laminated. Lamination ultimately introduces weak points that can cause the material to deteriorate over time.
  • Small width: In some instances, rolls of TPO or other single ply roofing may be smaller in width than anticipated. So while you might have enough to cover the length of a roof, multiple sheets may be needed which creates seams. Those seams are then subject to possible damage as the material ages and deteriorates with time.

At the end of the day, a single-ply roof is only as good as the installation and the regular maintenance done. Yes there are many drawbacks to this type of roof, but that is the same with anything else. While single-ply roofing is cheap, it is still an investment – an investment that will still require maintenance. Scheduling regular inspections, like you would schedule regular plumbing inspections, will help you maintain your roof and see a return on your investment.

What is the Difference Between TPO and PVC Roofing?

Material wise, there is little difference between TPO and PVC roofing because they essentially do the same thing. The real difference comes down to the performance.

TPO is great for:

  • Weather resistance
  • Resistance to fungal growth
  • Environmentally friendly

There have been many innovations over the year in regards to TPO manufacturing, making it a very popular and durable material for commercial roofs. That being said, PVC roofing still has a place on those flat or low-sloping roof structures.

PVC is great for:

  • Chemical resistance
  • Won’t absorb oil or grease
  • Initial flexibility

If you are debating between a TPO or a PVC roof, it will ultimately come down to what you need and what you are willing to pay for. TPO is cheaper than PVC and has experienced many innovations to the manufacturing over the years. On the other hand, PVC is more flexible initially than TPO and is more resistant to things like oil or chemicals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a thermoplastic roof?

It is a type of single-ply roofing that utilizes minimal layers of roofing material to protect a flat or low-sloping roof decking.

What is the best single ply roofing membrane?

Ultimately, it depends on your needs. TPO is great for most roofing needs, but PVC is ideal for restaurants or kitchens since it won’t absorb oils and breakdown from exposure to grease.

What is the best material for a flat roof?

Single-ply membrane is considered to be the best because it can cover a roof with little to no seams, which help prevent leaks and damage.

Is TPO better than EPDM?

It will depend on what you need from your roof. TPO is significantly more energy efficient than EPDM typically is, but EPDM is cheaper and widely known as a trusted single-ply roofing material.

Call Malachi Consulting Roof Specialists, (512) 520-0523, for single-ply roofing in the Cedar Park, TX area.

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