Commercial Flat Roofing Options
What kind of commercial low-slope or flat roofing membranes are available on the market in Vancouver, British Columbia?
There is a range of flat roofing membranes available in Vancouver for both residential and commercial applications. The most common membranes installed on commercial and industrial roofs are single ply, such as EPDM, PVC, or TPO. These dominate the market and are most popular among commercial roofing contractors. Not far behind are (SBS) torch-on systems. If specified in architectural drawings, or the building owner prefers a torch-on membrane, many roofing companies in Vancouver, Richmond, and Langley use a two-ply system for (SBS) torch-on membranes on residential and multifamily strata complexes. Contact Max Roofing for any questions you may have—we will be happy to help.
What is an EPDM single-ply roofing membrane?
Ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) is a rubberized single-ply roofing membrane that comes in wide rolls and different thicknesses, making installation cost-effective, covering large roof surfaces in a short time. This product is mainly used in commercial and industrial applications for low-slope and flat roofing projects. It comes in black or white.
How is EPDM roofing applied?
EPDM can be loose-lay fastened. The loose-lay system is installed over the roof by mechanically fastened seams, and ballast is spread over the surface to hold the roof down and protect it from wind gusts. Another popular EPDM roofing application is to fully adhere it to the roof deck. These applications involve less labour and reduce project costs while providing a superior and longer-lasting roof.
What is a TPO roofing membrane?
Thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) is a single-ply roofing system made from synthetic and reinforced scrim. Available in different thicknesses and colours, it has a highly reflective surface that repels UV rays and can save you energy bills in summer. This membrane is one of the most recognized and popular in the commercial flat-roofing industry. It comes in 10′, 12′, or 20′ wide rolls. It has fewer seams, and its fast, easy-to-use and economical application covers bigger areas—perfect for commercial or industrial structures.
The TPO membrane can be adhered or mechanically fastened to the roof deck. Different types and thicknesses of roof insulation can be implemented to increase the R-value of the building or costume sloped insulation can be installed to create a positive slope to roof drains, preventing water from pounding on the roof.
What is a PVC single-ply roofing membrane?
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is widely used in commercial roofing applications. Roofers use heat-welded tools to fuse the membrane seams and accessories. There are three primary roof applications—mechanically fastened, fully adhered, or induction welded—and it is available in several thicknesses.
What are the benefits of a PVC roofing membrane?
- PVC is a chemical- and grease-resistant roofing membrane, especially useful for restaurants and commercial buildings that have a high bird density.
- PVC is self-extinguishing and the most fire resistant among the single-ply roofing membranes.
- PVC is a cool-roof solution with high sunlight reflectivity and low heat absorption. This helps save on energy bills, mitigates the urban heat-island effect, and prolongs the life of the commercial roof.
- PVC is highly resistant to damage from impacts, punctures, fire, and wind.
- PVC is durable and long lasting and can be recycled at the end of its service life, which sets new benchmarks for sustainable commercial roofing membranes.
