# Single Ply Roofing

Factory-fabricated membrane installed in the field as a single layer. Lighter on the deck, faster to install, and usually lower cost because of the labor savings.

**Provider:** Lloyd Roofing Company, Inc., Greenwood SC. Commercial and industrial only. 1-800-421-3830.

- **Membranes:** TPO · EPDM · PVC
- **Attachment:** Adhered · mechanical · ballast
- **Seams:** Heat or chemically welded

## How single-ply systems work

Single-ply roof systems come on a roll and can be loose-laid, adhered, or mechanically attached to the substrate. The laps are heat-welded, chemically welded, or glued with an adhesive.They offer ease of installation, lighter weight, and usually a lower cost. The trade-offs to watch are puncture resistance, ponding water, delamination and chemical resistance.

## The three major membranes

### TPO — Thermoplastic Polyolefin
Bitumen and polystyrene compatible, very good low-temperature flexibility, excellent puncture resistance, and increased welding rates. TPO is the fastest-growing product type in the roofing industry.
### EPDM — Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer
Essentially rubber with an additive for tensile strength — in black EPDM, carbon black. One of the least expensive systems to manufacture and install, and as a result about half the single-ply industry. Available in very large sheets, so large roof areas can be covered quickly. EPDM cures after weathering and requires cleaning and priming before repairs are possible.
### PVC — Polyvinyl Chloride
A thermoplastic available in a variety of thicknesses and optional reinforcements. It can be formed into many shapes and conditions using heat and adhesives. PVC membranes are prone to plasticizer migration and should be monitored.

## Getting involved early

We seek to get involved early in the design phase so we can manage the project more efficiently, provide effective building solutions, and identify challenges before they become design changes after construction has begun.That pre-construction planning is what keeps a project on schedule — and it gives the owner and the team a clear pathway through bidding, construction and closeout.

## Frequently asked questions

**Which single-ply membrane is best for my building?**

TPO reflects heat and welds fast. EPDM is the economical choice for very large, simple roofs. PVC resists grease and chemicals, which matters over kitchens and plants. Rooftop equipment, foot traffic and what's exhausted through the roof usually decide it.

**Does a white roof actually lower cooling costs?**

A reflective membrane lowers the surface temperature of the roof, which reduces heat transfer into the building. The savings depend on insulation, climate and how the building is conditioned.

**What is ponding water and why does it matter?**

Water that remains on the roof more than 48 hours after rain. It accelerates membrane degradation, loads the deck, and voids most manufacturer warranties. Tapered insulation is the usual fix.


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**Lloyd Roofing Company, Inc.** · 2415 Montague Avenue Ext., Greenwood, SC 29649 · 1-800-421-3830 · Mon–Thu 7:00am – 5:00pm · Fri 7:00am – 12:00pm
Commercial and industrial roofing only. Serving South Carolina, North Carolina and Georgia since 1965.
SC contractor license CLG10175 · USDOT 483661