Low-Slope

LOW-SLOPE ROOFING SYSTEMS

Thermoplastic Polyolefin is a single-ply roofing membrane that is one of the fastest-growing commercial roofing systems on the market. TPO roofing systems are a single layer of synthetics and reinforcing scrim used to cover flat roofs.
TPO membranes are manufactured in sheets 10, 12, or 20 feet wide. These sheets are then rolled up and taken to the commercial facility. TPO has gained industry acceptance with its naturally reflective surface to reflect UV rays. The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) reported that TPO takes up about 40% of the commercial roofing market share.

A BUR roof system is also known as a “tar and gravel” roof. It’s created using alternating layers of bitumen and reinforcing fabrics, then covered with a gravel top to create the finished membrane. The multiple layers provide robust protection and insulation.
BUR membranes are particularly advantageous for flat or low-slope roofing systems. Some of its benefits include:

Multi-layer protection and water resistance.

Exceptional thermal performance.

Resistance to heat conduction between the exterior and interior of a building.

Fire and uplift resistance.

Modified bitumen is made up of asphalt roofing sheets that have been altered with rubber or plastic. Modified bitumen roofs are similar to their structural predecessor, the BUR system, as both are installed in multiple plies. However, where modified bitumen roofs and BUR roofing systems differ is in modified bitumen’s additions to the asphalt. Modified bitumen is created by adding polymers to the asphalt in combination with either fiberglass or polyester reinforcement to form an impenetrable roof membrane. Compared to traditional asphalt BUR systems, modified bitumen provides stronger protection against weatherproofing and better durability. The membrane is extremely flexible, resistant to tearing, easy to repair, and can withstand a wide range of temperatures without being affected.

A 4-Ply roofing system involves roofing felts that are typically four plies composed of layers of reinforcement such as fiberglass or polyester felts, with each ply being embedded in a full bed of hot asphalt/bitumen. The bitumen provides the adhesive and waterproofing membrane while the felts provide the membrane reinforcement and the surfacing. The roofing membrane is fully adhered to the underlayment, which typically consists of a vapour barrier, Poly ISO insulation and/or Fiberboard insulation, and four layers of perforated felt #15 and asphalt laminated together. Finally, the gravel ballast protects the bitumen from deteriorating influences of the ultra-violet light caused by the sun, and erosion due to wind, snow, hail and rain.