Flat Roofing Membrane Materials

Modified bitumen torch down roofing.

Flat roofing membrane materials.

Of all these membrane types epdm synthetic rubber is the most common single ply membrane roof material in both residential and commercial use. There are generally 5 to 6 different routes to take regarding the materials needed for roofing a flat surface. Pvc roofing membranes far surpass this standard all having a minimum breaking strength of 350 pounds per inch. Thermoplastic olefin tpo is used for roofs because it does not degrade easily under ultraviolet radiation a common problem with nylons.

Although tpo is a vinyl type of material we will also include it as part of this article. Ethylene propylene diene monomer a common use is in vehicles. The materials on flat roofs are mostly rubber. We also cover spray applied foam and liquid roofing options.

Membrane roofing is often used on commercial flat roofs. So all you need to be able to say to your roof contractor is you want an epdm rubber roof. This lightness eliminates the need for owners to use reinforcement for their roof decks. Compared to older roofing systems epdm weighs lighter.

It has the advantage of multiple layers but needs fewer layers than built up roofing and is less messy to apply. Built up roof bur modified bitumen roof mbr and rubber membrane roof epdm. Pvc is 1 90 per sq foot. This flat roofing material is popular because it uses trusted weatherproofing materials asphalt reinforced with polymers.

The three types of flat roofing materials are. Pvc roofs are specifically engineered for strength ensuring the membrane s long service life. Flat roof materials explained. Tpo is 1 70 per sq foot.

Rubber membranes are part of most flat roofs. Pvc roofs are especially strong and durable featuring a minimum breaking point of 300 pounds per inch compared to the industry recommended 200 ppi. Epdm is classified as rubber roofing. Modified bitumen and rolled asphalt roofs cost 1 30 2 20 per sq foot depending on the number of plies.

Epdm is 1 50 per sq foot making it the cheapest single ply membrane. The synthetic rubber is also used for flat roofs. This flat roofing dominates the market because it s affordable and strong. Common flat roof membranes discussed in this article include built up asphalt tar and gravel modified bitumen and single ply membranes like epdm pvc tpo and kee.

In general materials used on flat roofs cost less than ones used on sloped ones. Pros and cons for flat roof materials all three types of flat roofing cost 250 to 350 per square 100 square feet but prices vary according to region and size of the roof. The american society of testing and materials astm requires a roofing membrane to have a minimum breaking strength of 200 pounds per inch.