Let's talk Single Ply.
People have been given the impression that all single-ply membranes are alike. Nothing could be further from the truth. Just because they are called single-ply membranes does not mean that they will perform the same. For example, a Chevy Sprint will not perform as well as a Corvette or a Cadillac, but they are all automobiles.
The expectations of single-ply membranes should be that the membrane:
* is a waterproofing sheet
* must remain waterproof throughout its service life
* must be non-flammable
* must comply with building codes
* must be easy to work with and repair
* be pliable at different temperatures (especially extreme cold)
* be weldable
Since 1975 a wide range of Thermoplastics and Thermosets have been used for single ply roofing materials e.g. CPE, EPDM, Hypalon, TPO, PVC & CPA are just a few.
TPO's, however, are relatively new and do not have adequate performance history to make a concise judgment. TPO's, as a roofing product, have only been around in the United States about ten years and "As yet, little is known about their durability." Ralph M. Paroli, Technical advisor report Feb/Mar 2000.
Recently GAF (manufacturer) recalled it's TPO2 product. According to a newsletter article from the NRCA dated 6/8/01 "GAF Materials Corp. (GAFMC) has announced that it will discontinue production of its new EverGuard® TPOČ Plus product...
Severe water damage results. This was discovered under two layers of single ply modified bitumen, both layers been applied in a 17 year period.
On the other hand our choice for flat roof material, IB ROOF SYSTEMS™, CPA roofing membrane, has been around for over 25 years with an incredible documented track record. We have created an information page on IB Roof Systems, click the picture or the link below to visit that page.
Click here to go to our information page on IB Roof Systems.