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Single ply roofing is particularly suitable for waveform roofs, curved structures, mono-pitch roofs and other types of roofs that benefit from the membranes’ natural flexibility. Single ply has an aesthetically pleasing finish and standing seams can be added to get a metal sheet appearance. In what follows, we discuss more single ply benefits. We also go into the best installation method for this waterproofing solution, taking factors such as the substrate and the location into account.
THE BENEFITS OF SINGLE PLY ROOFING
There can be many advantages to specifying single ply over other systems, its flame-free application being the most important one for many projects – particularly in refurbishment scenarios where existing combustibles may be a factor. Moreover, maintenance and repairs are simplified with single ply. Mechanical damage can usually be repaired by simply heat-welding a patch of membrane over the affected area.
1. TPO MEMBRANES
Our TPO membranes are environmentally friendly to produce and have BRE Green Guide A+ rating. Mechanically fixed TPO membranes are non-toxic and can be recycled at the end of the building’s life, making them ideal for sustainability-driven projects. Other advantages include:
- excellent weldability and flexibility
- exceptional dimensional stability
- high weather and UV resistance
- high resistance to puncturing, root growth and micro-organisms
- resistant to a wide range of chemical attacks
- compatible with most insulation materials as well as with oxidised bitumen
- adaptable to structural movement
- ease of use
- approved by both the BBA and FM
Our TPO waterproofing is available in RAL 7012 (dark grey/black) and RAL 9016 (white/black), with SRI 95, according to the ASTM E 1980 standard.
2. PVC MEMBRANES
PVC is widely used on complex profile designs and larger projects such as stadiums, supermarkets, distribution centres and production facilities, which are mostly designed with a metal profile deck. Speed of application is a benefit, especially on big roof areas, thanks to the large rolls (42 m2). Moreover, PVC …
- remains flexible at low temperatures
- is unaffected by hot-cold cycles
- has a high mechanical resistance
- has a high resistance to static and dynamic puncturing
- is vapour permeable
- adapts to structural movement
- is rot proof
- is resistant to weathering and UV radiation
- has a life expectancy of over 35 years
- is available in almost any RAL colour
- has BBA approval
FLAGON Copper Art holds a special place among our PVC membranes. Made from plasticised PVC, this patented membrane has no sell-on value, which eliminates the risk of it being stolen. Yet its finishing contains real copper particles. Unlike some competitor products, which make your roof simply look brown, FLAGON Copper Art delivers the authentic and unrivalled allure of a genuine copper roof.
SELECTING THE BEST INSTALLATION METHOD
Single ply can be both adhered and mechanically fixed. An important advantage of mechanically fixing systems to any substrate is that the system can be dismantled at the end of its lifespan. Individual components can then be recycled or, in some cases, re-used. Loose laid systems are only suitable for ballasted systems where the weight of the ballast achieves 80 kg/pm2.
The substrate type is important when specifying the right system, but the location also matters.
1. KEEPING THE SUBSTRATE IN MIND
The installation method is largely determined by the substrate type, which should be considered during the specification stage.
- Mechanically fixed systems are more suitable for metal profile and timber substrates.
- Adhered systems are a better match with cementitious structures.
One of the key factors in this is the labour time. For example, mechanically fixing single ply through a concrete substrate is labour intensive compared to adhering the system.
2. LOCATION ALSO PLAYS A ROLE
When specifying a system, the location is a crucial factor too. For instance, if the roof is in a high wind location (e.g., on the seafront), mechanically fixed systems can be susceptible to ‘fluttering’.
Fluttering at high level can be alleviated by using an induction-welded plate beneath the product. Not only will this reduce fluttering; it will also distribute the wind suction load more evenly by distributing the stress placed on the product.
INSPIRING PROJECTS WITH SINGLE PLY ROOFING
Two notable projects where single-ply roofing was used are The Broadway in Leigh-on-Sea and St John’s Hill in London. For both projects, we collaborated with roofing contractor DF Roofing Ltd. to create a reliable and effective roof. The Broadway was completed in 2023 and featured 500 m2 of PVC Copper Art in a mechanically fixed, warm roof system with standing seam profiles. For St John’s Hill, a London project that was finished in 2020, no less than 2,000m2 of FLAGON SR membrane was used in a mechanically fixed, warm roof system with standing seam profiles.
For more information on SINGLE PLY ROOFING: BENEFITS AND INSTALLATION METHODS talk to SOPREMA UK