Underlayment is an important part of commercial roofing systems. It serves as a protective barrier against water, sunlight, wind, and debris, therefore, it is crucial for building managers to choose the right roofing membrane material.
When it comes to protecting commercial and industrial roofing, singly-ply underlayment is considered one of the most popular options. Your local roofing contractor will probably offer single-ply underlayment when you ask for suggestions.
Compared to its counterparts, single-ply membranes are more versatile due to their composition. They are made of rubber sheets and synthetics, which makes them more durable than other materials available on the market.
Two Types of Single-ply Underlayment
Rubber roofing membranes is a safe option for commercial and industrial buildings because of their durability and protective features, which reduces roof repair expenses. This type of roof membrane is commonly used to cover flat roofs.
However, you should still consider the two types of single-ply underlayment which are Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) and Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO). What should you use for your roofing system?
Here are some of the things you should know about TPO and EPDM roofing membrane before you pick one for your commercial building.
Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
The synthetic rubber used in EPDM membrane is vulcanized or dried out. The rubber sheets are then cured to form sheets. Most EPDM products come in black, but with modern innovations, you can now find white EPDM variants. With its high-performance and longevity, it has been one of the top options for flat roofs. One advantage of an EPDM underlayment is that it can withstand extreme weather conditions such as winter and summer.
Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO)
Unlike EPDM, most TPO roofing membranes are white. Today’s manufacturers, however, now offer different colors such as gray and tan. TPO roofs can resist UV rays by reflecting the light off its surface. This makes TPO ideal for buildings that need an effective insulation system. TPO underlayment is relatively easier to install. A hot-air gun is used to melt the rubber down to fuse each sheet together.
Get Expert Help Today
At Pechacek’s General Contracting, Roofing & Siding LLC, we believe in using the highest quality products with the best warranties. Our highly trained team specializes in roofing services such as gutter installation, roof replacement, single maintenance, roof membrane replacement, and many more.
Pechacek’s General Contracting, Roofing & Siding LLC is proud to be a Better Business Bureau Accredited company with an A+ rating. You can trust your WI home to us. Call our offices today at (715) 425-9801 or complete our online form to schedule an evaluation of your next project. We serve clients in Hudson and River Falls, WI.
