Single Ply Roofing

Service Details

Single ply roofing membranes have become the dominant flat roofing technology for new-build commercial and industrial projects, and they are increasingly specified for residential flat roofs as well. At Capital Roofing, we are approved installers for all the major single ply systems and have completed hundreds of single ply projects across London and the South East.

A single ply membrane is a factory-manufactured sheet, typically made from PVC, TPO, or EPDM, that is applied in a single layer to the roof deck. The sheets are either mechanically fixed, adhered, or ballasted, depending on the building design and wind load calculations. Joints between sheets are heat-welded (for PVC and TPO) or adhesive-bonded (for EPDM) to create a continuous waterproof layer.

The advantages of single ply over traditional built-up roofing systems are significant. Installation is faster because there is no need for hot works on site, which eliminates fire risk and the associated insurance complications. The membranes are lightweight, which reduces structural loading. They are also flexible, which means they can accommodate building movement without cracking. And they come in a range of colours, which gives the architect design flexibility.

We install single ply systems on flat roofs, barrel vaults, curved roofs, and complex geometric shapes. The flexibility of the membrane means it can be dressed into details such as upstands, outlets, and penetrations with precision. Getting these details right is where experience matters most, because the majority of flat roof failures occur at junctions and details, not in the main field of the membrane.

Our single ply installers are manufacturer-trained and regularly assessed to maintain their approved contractor status. This means that on completion of the project, the membrane manufacturer provides a backed guarantee that covers both the material and the workmanship. Guarantee periods of 20 to 25 years are standard, with some systems offering up to 30 years.

We work with systems from Sika Sarnafil, Bauder, IKO Polymeric, Protan, and others. The choice of system depends on the project requirements, including the expected foot traffic, any rooftop plant equipment, thermal performance targets, and aesthetics.

For property managers considering a flat roof refurbishment, single ply can often be installed over an existing roof build-up without the need for a full strip, which reduces cost, waste, and disruption. We carry out site surveys to assess whether an overlay is feasible and provide honest advice on the best approach for each situation.