![]() Typically the warranties on PVC roofs and EPDM roofs are in the range of 10 years. In some cases in sloped applications, such as the CN tower or the Toronto SkyDome, PVC membranes can be fully adhered where there is little chance of anyone walking on them or damaging them. In our opinion, if choosing PVC or EPDM on flat roofs, we prefer it be in a protected (inverted) system as the PVC and the EPDM are not very rugged membranes and are easily damaged and cut or punctured by workers servicing HVAC’s or other items on the roof. ![]() Included in the ballasted systems would be inverted or protected roof systems in which the membrane goes down before the insulation is placed on top, and ballasted with large 1.5” to 2” stone. ![]() Ballasted systems are the most common, followed by fully adhered applications on more sloped surfaces, and then much less common the mechanically fastened. (There are also spray-on liquid rubber or foam applications, which in our opinion have not yet been fully proven or accepted industry-wide.) There are usually three ways to apply PVC or EPDM. The most common are PVC (vinyl) membranes, and EPDM (rubber) membranes. There are several types of single ply membrane roofs available. Our very experienced Foremen are actually partners in the company, so we achieve that extra level of care in the application of such flat roofing systems. Rooftek is a manufacturer trained and certified installer of MBM membranes. Additionally, Modified Bitumen Membranes typically have double the life expectancy and much higher manufacturer warranties than most other types of flat roofing products. This is a major improvement over tar and gravel which can only go up a few inches and then must be covered with metal. There is no limit to the height it can be applied. The latter normally cannot be continuously carried up parapet walls, curbs, boxes, etc., whereas the MBM is ideal for application from the flat roof and right up vertical surfaces. The fact that the tiny granules of coloured stone are embedded in the cap sheet to protect from UV rays degrading the asphalt is a huge advantage over traditional tar and gravel systems. The cap sheet is usually welded onto the base sheet, but there are also applications in which it can be glued, mopped in hot asphalt, or come as a peel & stick membrane. The base sheet can either be nailed, screwed, glued, welded, or mopped in hot asphalt, depending on the nature of the substrate and whether insulation is to be added to the system. The procedure usually involves layering 2 plies of modified bitumen membrane, plus a reinforcement layer in key transition areas, and welding them together to form a completely sealed system that has no flaws. Modified Bitumen Membrane was developed in 1908, it is today the most common type of flat roofing application. Available in many colours, this ceramic stone-coated product is ideal for both residential and commercial applications. An added bonus is that there are no smelly fumes involved in its application as there are in tar and gravel roofing. Modified Bitumen Membrane is easy to work with, especially in making alterations to a roof, like when retro-fitting curbs, HVACs, vents, plumbing stacks, skylights, etc. One that is highly resistant to cracking or breaking during roof expansion & contraction in temperature fluctuations. It is made from asphalt modified with synthetic rubber which results in a very flexible product even in very cold temperatures. Modified Bitumen Membrane (MBM) roofing is the most reliable, trouble-free and long lasting system available for flat or low slope roofs.
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