Single-Ply Vinyl Roofing Membranes

Roofing membranes made of vinyl and other single-ply technologies have brought about revolutionary change in roofing specification and installation over the past 30 years, offering a clean, quick and efficient alternative to built-up roofs with greater design flexibility. The product offers energy savings from production to re-use.

Relatively light weight and compactness make vinyl roofing membranes energy-efficient to produce and transport to the installation site. But the most notable advantage is recognized in the use phase of the product. Typically light in color, vinyl roofing membranes are known as ‘reflective’ roof surfaces, deflecting sunlight and radiant heat away from a building, helping the structure to stay cool and reducing energy use for air conditioning. In fact, many vinyl roofing membranes have been recognized by the Energy Star Roof Products Program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy. This program helps specifiers quickly and easily identify products that can save them money and protect the environment by saving energy.

Some vinyl roofing membranes are being recycled into second-generation products (check with your local recycling facility). Many vinyl-roofing manufacturers utilize post-industrial recycled roofing scrap generated in the manufacturing processes. Furthermore, lightweight vinyl roof systems help reduce the need for other materials that are often necessary to support heavier roof system options.

The versatility of vinyl roofing membranes allows it to re-cover an existing roof, providing both performance and financial benefits. A built-up roof can be left in place, overlaid with insulation and topped with a vinyl roofing membrane. Conversely, disposal of a built-up roof could mean high disposal costs, greater material volume in landfills and increased labor requirements.

Finally, roofing membranes are used as a component in “green roofs,” consisting of multi-layer soil and drainage systems upon which vegetation can grow on urban roofs. Green roofs, in turn, can improve the energy efficiency of buildings, enhance the look of urban rooftops, and promote healthier air in such areas.