Common Roof Membranes Used on Low Slope Roofs

Low slope roofs are becoming increasingly popular as a residential roofing system option due to their ease of installation, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. While they’re mainly used for patios and garages, many modern residential buildings use low slope roofs to maintain their cutting-edge style. If you’re interested in building a low slope roof, get in touch with Elite Remodeling Services at (952) 646-2480 today.

Like with traditional roofing, there are plenty of roofing membrane materials to choose from when building a low slope roof. Each has its strengths and weaknesses, but they all perform the similar function of protecting the roof from water and weather.

In general, low slope roofing materials come in two broad categories: single-ply membranes and layered solutions. The most common layered solution is modified bitumen membranes, while EPDM, TPO, and PVC roof membranes are all single-layer solutions. Most single-ply roof membranes use petroleum products, which may influence your decision based on eco-conscious choices.

EPDM Roof Membranes

Ethylene propylene diene terpolymer (EPDM) are black synthetic rubber roof membranes that come in large sheets. EPDM is easy to install and comes in various thickness, reinforcing, and installation options to suit a wide range of roofs.

EPDM is black to combat UV degradation, but the color does mean that it absorbs a lot of heat from the sun. You can get titanium-white coated EPDM which is better at reflecting light and being more energy-efficient, but this layer will wear off eventually.

EPDM is an excellent choice for low slope roofs over a garage or other non-living space where the heat absorption isn’t an issue. It’s exceptionally durable and can handle many weather types, including snow and extreme sunlight.

TPO Roof Membranes

Thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) are versatile white roof membranes that offer excellent energy efficiency due to their reflective capabilities. It comes in a wide range of installation options, including fully adhering, mechanically-fastened, or loose-laid with ballast.

TPO offers some advantages over EPDM but is less durable, and the white color may be off-putting when it comes to visible areas of the roof. The white color will quickly get dirty and affect the final look of the structure. Whether that’s worth the energy efficiency and low cost is up to you.

PVC Roof Membranes

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a common material and makes for great roof membranes. PVC is similar to TPO but is slightly more flexible, which results in a more durable and robust product.
PVC roofs are resistant to bacterial growth and root penetration, making them ideal for extensively covered roofs that may otherwise suffer damage from vegetative growth.

PVC roof membranes have a lifespan of 25 years if properly installed and maintained and come in a range of colors to match your energy and aesthetic needs.

Modified Bitumen Membrane Roofing

Modified bitumen roofing doesn’t consist of a single membrane layer but instead relies on multiple layers to offer protection from UV rays, water, and other hazards. Modified bitumen, or asphalt, is an excellent roofing material due to its flexibility, durability, and cost.

The modified bitumen membrane sits on several layers of asphalt base sheets or a built-up roofing structure made of layers of bitumen and reinforcing fabrics. These roofing membranes have a lifespan of 20 years and are incredibly reliable when installed properly.

Modified bitumen membranes come in two types: SBS and APP roof membranes. These different membranes use different polymers to bind the bitumen. SBS is more flexible, which is important for roofing systems that move or shift during their daily use.

APP roof membranes are more solid and less pliable. They are still relatively flexible but are better as static roofing solutions.

The Ideal Low Slope Roof

Low slope roofs present their own unique challenges and solutions. That’s why having a roofer with experience is so valuable to get you the results you want. Elite Remodeling Services has helped thousands of Minnesota residents get the best roofing solutions possible. If you want a roof that’s long-lasting and reliable, give Elite Remodeling Services a call at (952) 646-2480 today! With our experience in low slope roofs, you’re sure to get the roof of your dreams.