When commercial flat and low-sloped roofs became the design norm, they were almost always covered with a mixture of asphalt and tar. However, in recent years, innovative roofing solutions have evolved, with single-ply roofing taking a dominant stance. Single-ply roofs are affordable, offer easy installation and maintenance, and offer long-lasting waterproofing and protection. In this article, we examine available single-ply roofing options for commercial property owners.

The earliest known use of single-ply roofing systems occurred in the mid-1960s, but it wasn’t until the late 1970s and ’80s that single-ply roofing materials became more prevalent. Single-ply roofing delivers the robust waterproofing protection of the old BUR roofs but utilizes a single sheet of membrane. The material can be easily rolled out and adhered to the roof deck. While BUR roofing is still utilized, single-ply roofing systems have eclipsed them as the industry standard in for commercial properties.

There are several variables responsible for promoting single-ply roofing into a top position in the industry. These key benefits combine to make single-ply roofing systems a top choice for property owners, developers, architects, and roofing professionals.

The solution is affordable due to an easier installation process. Single-ply membrane roof systems are installed in significantly less time than it takes to install a multi-layer roof. Less time means fewer labor hours, and reduced labor costs translate to a lower overall cost of installation.
Single-ply roofing systems are tough and resilient. Single-ply roofing has exceptional tensile strength that delivers superior waterproofing protection. The materials resist damage, even in extreme climate or temperature scenarios.
A single-ply roof means that the building is more energy efficient. Single-ply white roofing often delivers a “cool roof” effect that maintains a cooler building temperature, even during the summer months.
The system provides an extended service life. Single-ply roof systems are resilient against the elements and are resistant to the damage and deterioration that UV rays can cause.
A single-ply roof system is lightweight. A single-ply membrane exerts less stress on the building structure than a BUR roof, requiring less reinforcement to carry its weight.

Assembly Options for a Single-Ply Roof

Ballasted Assemblies: The assemblies are installed by laying the membrane across the roof deck loosely, and holding it in place with gravel, stone, or concrete pavers (ballasting material). The ballast protects the membrane and helps extend the roof’s lifespan. Ballasted assemblies are less common in new construction or reroof.

Mechanically-Attached Assemblies: In mechanically-attached roofing systems, the single-ply membrane is attached to the roof deck with plates and fasteners. Mechanical attachment is an affordable way to secure a roof membrane due to reduced labor costs. Further, the direct attachment method provides resistance to wind uplift, making it a strategic choice for buildings in wind-prone areas.

Fully-Adhered: A fully-adhered single-ply membrane roof is directly attached to the insulation layer with adhesive. This process is often labor intensive, although some manufacturers facilitate the application by providing self-adhered membranes. A fully adhered system provides exceptional stability and wind resistance, although experts typically prefer mechanically attached systems in windy areas.

Metal Retrofit: A single-ply roof system can be installed directly on top of an existing metal roof. Insulation is utilized to create a level surface, and the single-ply membrane is attached either with adhesives or mechanical attachment. A metal retrofit system is an appropriate choice for extending an aging metal roof’s useful life without requiring a full replacement. Metal retrofit systems also provide enhanced energy efficiency and a quieter interior environment.

Call the Unicoat Roofing Professionals

Unicoat Industrial Roofing is a trusted team of roofing experts specializing in extending the life of your commercial roof. If your aging roof is still serviceable, call today for an assessment. Roof coatings can offer you significant benefits while saving you time and money.