Single-Ply Flat Roofing Weld Techniques

Hot Air Weld

• Hot air welding is one of the more common techniques used to join these single-membrane flat roofs. These roofing panels generally have some type of adhesive backing that joins together the roofing panels when hot air is applied. The adhesive seam that is joined together is generally stronger than the roofing material itself when properly welded. An additional layer of reinforcement material, such as those made of fiberglass, are also commonly installed under roofs that are hot air welded.

Chemical Welding

• Another way in which single ply flat roofs are often welded together is through the use of chemical adhesives. These adhesives form a specific chemical bond with the roofing material that is nearly as strong as the bond created by hot air welding techniques. As with single ply roofing sheets that air hot air welded, these roofing membranes will generally have some additional layer of material applied underneath that is designed specifically to create a greater chemical bond and increase the strength of the roof.

EPDM

• The use of ethylene propylene diene monomer, or EPDM as it is sometimes called, does not necessarily provide the would-be roofer with an additional welding option, but it does create a similar bond. This type of roofing material is often applied to to metal roofing materials but can be used with other types of roofing materials as well. This is a protective coating that goes on top of the roof and creates a seal that protects the roof from the elements.

Durability

• Due to the bonds created by these various welding and sealing techniques, the life expectancy of single-ply roofs tends to be much greater than that of a traditional asphalt roof. Life expectancy often exceeds 20 years and can be as many as 30 or 40 years for certain types of materials.Taking the time to properly seal and weatherize each piece of the roofing material will inevitably play and important role in that longevity as will other factors, such as the climate in which it is installed.