Finding the Best Membranes for specific Roofing Systems.

1. F i n d i n g t h e B e s t Me mb r a n e s f o r s p e c i f i c R o o f i n g S y s t e ms Depending on a few factors such as where in the world one lives, the general customs of the area, or one’s preference, buildings can have one of a choice of roofs. Some roofs will be sloped, others inverted or flat. Membrane roofing for flat roofs will afford the builder or his customer or client some choices in terms of which they can look for the best type of membrane for their kind of roof. Some clients will prefer a single membrane for some reasons: it offers greater flexibility and elasticity and because it is a single ply product, it is often cheaper than other membranes which are of a more composite nature. One example of the membranes you can use for flat roofs is the RBM (reinforced bitumen membrane). This type of membrane’s most important quality is that it forms a great waterproof layer. When you are looking for membrane roofing for flat roofs,it is important to remember that this waterproof layer just referred to normally needs a protective layer to go on top of the membrane. There are other examples of flat roofs that some people prefer such as an asphalt roof, mainly because it is one of the cheaper options; however, it needs replacing more regularly than many others. A good example of a more modern membrane for this type of roof is the EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer), a rubber based material that is more durable and lasts longer than some of the older materials.

2. When choosing membrane roofing for flat roofsone of the most durable materials yet is the single ply membrane that is favoured by many builders and owners today. An example is the well-known PVC. They are normally 1 to 2mm thick and are offered in rolls of around 20m. These single ply membranes can be attached to roofs in different ways, the most popular being mechanical fastening by actually going right through the roof and fastening it to the structural deck to ensure wind does not lift it, for instance. As is the case in terms of membranes for all types of roofing systems, the flat roof has its own unique requirements and therefore membrane roofing for flat roofswill have to take into account issues such as water, or excessive moist collection on the roof. Architects and builders – even those who try their hand at DIY – should ensure that they consider these issues when they plan the membranes for the flat roofs. As mentioned earlier, the single ply option for flat roofs is very often a popular choice. The single ply membrane is offered in one of two choices – referred to as those belonging either to the category of thermosets or the category known as thermoplastics. Depending on individual choice builders and architects will make their selection when they are looking at membrane roofing for flat roofs. The main difference is that the one can be warmed to the extent that it melts (thermoplastics) and the other not; it remains solid (thermosets). In both categories there are various products on the market to choose from when you start planning for the membranes you are going to use.

3. A good, popular example of the thermoset single ply membrane is the EPDM, whereas the thermoplastic examples are TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) and the well-known PVC which remains a popular choice for those who want flat roofs for their buildings. When clients are looking for membrane roofing for flat roofs they will also consider the different fastening systems to be sure the membrane stays in place and does not come loose or suffer damage because of windy conditions, stormy weather or during maintenance when someone walks on the surface. These systems can be fastened by using enough fasteners to ensure the roof remains in place. The other method to employ is the adhered system which means the membrane is glued to another surface such as concrete, for example. About Us IKO Polymeric is regarded as a market leader in the UK in terms of our single ply roofing, waterproofing and insulation services and products. The company enjoys the distinction of being the UK’s only single ply manufacturer. We firmly believe in using materials that minimise the effects on the environment, and we emphasise manufacturing and distribution processes that support this ideal. Therefore we also believe in re-using every possible by-product created by our manufacturing processes and we concentrate on bringing the market durable products. We offer a wide range of services and products of outstanding quality to ensure that the highest standards in terms of roofing practices are met. Our roofing systems are only installed by IKO approved contractors. For more about us, please visit http://www.ikopolymeric.com/