Single ply membranes have become increasingly popular and have been used in the UK for approximately 40 years, used in the correct application, Single ply can offer waterproof protection to large scale industrial buildings, and is becoming more commonly used in private dwellings, due to being incredibly aesthetic, where mock standing seam profiles are incorporated to resemble a lead roof installation.
Single ply membrane is a thermoplastics flexible sheet of synthetic polymer-based roofing material, that provides a waterproofing layer in a single sheet. Welded at the joints this can be achieved using a heat welding tool – this application of single ply membrane systems enhances safety of installation.
Single Ply is, lightweight, flexible, cost-effective and quick to install, which makes it an increasingly popular roofing solution for both new build and refurbishment projects.
Methods of application: –
• Mechanically fixed – The single ply membrane, is held in place using tube washers, theses are driven and held in place using manufactures recommended fixings, the fixings should in most instances protrude below the deck by a minimum of 25mm, specific wind uplift calculations can be provided to determine the type of fixing and fixing ratio. The fixings are then covered by the adjacent sheet of single ply membrane, the side laps are then welded using a heat welding tool and Silicon Seam & Brass Penny Pressure Roller. Mechanical fixed systems are quick in relation to installation, and relatively lower in cost than adhered system, however suit a profiled structural deck or plywood substrate.
• Adhered – Manufacturer specific PU adhesives are used, to bond both the glass tissue faced insulation, and membrane, however the membrane used is a fleece backed membrane, and commonly this application is more expensive than the mechanically fixed option. Fully adhered systems incorporate either a self-adhesive vapour control layer or torch applied bitumen felt membrane vapour control layer. This application is suited to a concrete deck, however can be used in a profiled structural deck or plywood substrate scenario.
Single ply membranes can be incorporated in warm roofs / Green Roofs.
Roof survey and inspections can also be carried out to establish the integrity of an existing roof, where applicable Single ply membrane roof coverings, can be used in a single layer overlay or a new warm roof overlay to an existing roof, however cognisance should be taken at detailing and thresholds, to ensure 150mm height above the finished roof level, can be achieved.