Single Ply Roofs all fit into the category of elastomeric roofs. Elastomeric materials are those that will return to an original size after repeated stretching. Some elastomeric roof materials will stretch to as much as 450% their original size without damage. Some of the positive qualities of single ply roofs are:

• Very Light Weight
• Conforms to any roof shape
• Bonds well to substrate
• Expands and Contracts without Tearing
• Remain Flexible at the Lowest Temperatures

The 3 main types of single ply roofs are:

EPDM

This is a vulcanized rubber product that is manufactured in sheets up to 50 feet wide. It is available in black and white only. EPDM can be loose laid, mechanically attached, or fully adhered. Membranes are available with and without reinforcement scrim, and are made in thicknesses up to 60 mils (.060″).

TPO

TPO membranes are single-ply roof membranes constructed from ethylene propylene rubber. They are designed to combine the durability of rubber with the proven performance of hot-air weldable seams. They have been tested as having excellent resistance to ozone, are algae-resistant, environmentally friendly and safe to install. The material’s manufacturers are so confident in properly welded seams that the material is sometimes advertised as a monolithic (seamless) roof. Seam strengths are reportedly 3 to 4 times those of EPDM’s adhesive and tape seams. TPO is highly resistant to tears, impacts, and punctures with good flexibility to allow for building movement. TPO’s are available in white, light gray, and black with thicknesses of either 45 mils (.045″) or 60 mils (.060″). The width of the membrane depends on the manufacturer but they usually come in widths of six to six-and-a-half feet and are one-hundred feet in length.

PVC

PVC membrane is a roof membrane composed of only one layer of material – polyvinyl chloride. PVC roofs are specially designed to withstand ponding water- PVC membrane is welded together with hot air (no open flame) to eliminate all seams so moisture can not pass through. PVC roofing systems also reflect nearly 90% of the sun’s heat, thus lowering energy costs substantially, especially in high-heat areas such as the southwestern United States. PVC’s are available in 50 mils (.050″), 60 mils (.060″), and 80 mils, and in sheet widths up to 78″.