What is single-ply membrane?
A single-ply membrane is a relatively thin sheet of flexible, durable, waterproof material that provides the vital final layer to your roofing system. As it can be laid in a single sheet and can be attached to almost any roof design, they are mostly used on large commercial buildings, so that an organisation can find a simple, single solution to fit their multiple roofing needs: factories, warehouses, stores and offices. There are many different types of membrane used in single-ply roofing, broadly divided into two categories: thermoplastic and elastomeric. Thermoplastic membranes respond to heat, softening allowing hot welding, for instance PVC (polyvinyl chloride). Elastomeric membranes are also suitable in the UK as they are not as sensitive to temperatures and are more weather resistant. They include Butyl rubber and EPDM.
Whether thermoplastic or elastomeric, single-ply membranes are made from synthetic polymers or natural rubber, often reinforced with glass fibre or polyester.
