Choosing a commercial flat roof involves more than selecting a membrane. Drainage, insulation, rooftop traffic, building use, existing deck conditions and installation details all influence performance.
Modified bitumen roofing
Modified bitumen is an asphalt-based roofing system commonly installed in multi-ply configurations. It can be appropriate for many commercial applications, with installation and detailing dependent on the specified assembly.
TPO roofing
Thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) is a single-ply thermoplastic membrane with heat-welded seams. Its performance depends on product selection, installation, detailing and ongoing maintenance.
PVC roofing
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is another heat-welded single-ply membrane. Certain PVC systems may be selected where specified chemical or grease exposure considerations are relevant, but suitability must be checked against manufacturer limitations.
How to compare systems responsibly
Consider rooftop equipment, anticipated traffic, compatibility with the existing roof assembly, insulation and drainage needs, fire and wind requirements, availability of qualified installers, maintenance expectations and project-specific warranties.
No membrane is universally best for every building. The right system comes from a site-specific assessment and an appropriately detailed roofing specification.
Talk to Guycan
For commercial roof system planning in Toronto and the GTA, review Guycan’s commercial roofing services or call 416-298-1950.