Membrane Roofing

About Membrane Roofing

Membrane roofing is a modern solution for protecting homeowners and their property from the harshness of the season. It will defend against the winter cold and summer heat by providing a layer of insulation on the roof. Moreover, it can help prevent any potential property damage caused by water seepage. 

In addition, these roof accessories are used in various residential and commercial applications, including RVs, warehouses, and homes. In some cases, gardeners and growers rely on membrane roofing to double as a gardening space. Otherwise, it is primarily used to seal areas from external forces, such as rain and snow.

Types Of Membrane Roofing

There are several types of roofing membranes, and each comes with a unique set of specifications. A few options to consider include:

Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) Membranes

EPDM membranes are highly durable synthetic rubber roofing membranes, mainly used for sloped roofs. Its characteristics include:

• Heat absorption due to black colour
• Dirt-resistant
• Its robust build makes it almost indestructible

However, it is not recommended for installation over living spaces.

Thermoplastic Polyolefin Membrane

TPO membranes are a white single-ply roofing solution that is suitable for residential and commercial use. It is commonly used because:

• Its white colour helps reflect heat, making it perfect for living spaces
• Ideal for flat roofs
• Long-lasting (up to 25 years) service

However, please think twice before installing them on a site visible through windows. The white colour helps highlight all the dust and dirt it accumulates over time.

Butyl Membranes

These roofing insulations are malleable, synthetic rubber panels in singly-ply form, and the materials used are also helpful in sealing footballs, volleyballs, and basketballs. 

Moreover, butyl rubber membranes are used as roof sealants because:

• It can be painted 
• Its tough exterior is difficult to penetrate
• It can also serve as a base for water-bodies

Torch-On Felt

Torch-on membranes usually need a double-layer underlay beneath the cap sheet, and it is composed of bitumen mixed with polymers. Additionally, it comes with two types of asphalt:

• Atactic Polypropylene plastic 
• Styrene Butadiene Styrene

These are ideal for complete liquid immersion applications; hence, making them perfect to seal maintenance holes, gutters, and fish tanks.

Green Roofing

Vegetative roofs, or green roofs, are nurseries on top of houses. People plant these vegetations to:

• Purify air
• Reduce temperature
• Protect from rain
• Grow produce

However, they may allow seepage because of their fragmented nature.

Warm Roofing

This is when there is a layer of insulation installed on top of a flat roof. In contrast to warm roofs, cold roofs involve insulation installed between the rafter and the ceiling.

A warm roof is ideal for colder locations because it helps trap heat inside a property. Moreover, cold roofs do the opposite.

Mastic Asphalt Roofing

For generations, people have been insulating their homes using a mixture of bitumen asphalt cement and limestone applied on timber construction.

Although better alternatives exist, mastic asphalt is a cheap solution. It is still used because:

• It is a good base for a green roof
• It is suitable for the environment
• It can be recycled

Factors To Consider

There are several factors to consider before deciding on what material and variety to choose. These include:

Architectural Authenticity

Roofings that match the exterior of the home are essential. In the case of a modernly-styled home, metal roofings systems might work out. However, traditional homes may have roofs made up of wood or roof tiles and slates. 

Material Weight

Making structural changes might also be necessary to support the weight of roofing. Hence, one must consider the pre-existing weight of water or retention tanks on the roof alongside other fixtures.

Long-Term Maintenance

Installation and maintenance of roofing membranes determine longevity. Therefore, before deciding on a specific material, one must consider the long-term costs of maintaining these roofs. 

Breather

Roof framing and lining must use breathable membranes. The air-permeability that the texture allows is perfect for a well-ventilated living space.

Waterproofing

Waterproofing is the primary task of membranes. However, if the region experiences significant rainfall, one must get the tightest seal possible; only then can they ensure proper rainwater management.

Installation Process And Tips To Consider

Single-ply roof membranes like TPO and EPDM can be installed in various ways. A few of these methods have been listed below. However, asphalt-based products may rely on different installation methods: 

• Mechanically attached
• Rhino bond
• Ballasted
• Fully adhered

Meanwhile, the procedure to prep and install any membrane usually involves the following steps:

• Step 1: Fieldwork – survey the roof to look for weaknesses and existing weight, especially for clear roofing projects
• Step 2: Implementation – install whichever choice of membrane
• Step 3: Touch-ups – hide the membranes that burn off during the process 
• Step 4: test it – Check all the vulnerable spots, especially the T-joints and seams

Roofing membranes add years to a house and signifies a long-term investment in living standards. ArchiPro has the best collection of roofing accessories to keep homes, RVs, warehouses, and shops cosy all year long. Get in touch today to find the perfect membrane solution.