Thermoset membranes incorporate principal polymers that are chemically cross linked or vulcanized. Membranes that are vulcanized also may be referred to as "cured." One characteristic of true thermoset polymers is once they are cured, they only can be bonded to simliar materials with adhesives.
There are five common subcategories of thermoset roof membranes:
There are five common subcategories of thermoset roof membranes:
- Ethylene propylene diene terpolymer (EPDM)
- Chlorosulfonated polyethylene (CSPE)
- Epichlorohydrin (ECH)
- Neoprene (CR)
- Polyisobutylene (PIB)
- Sheet widths range from 7.5 feet to 50 feet wide.
- Sheets are typically 45 mils and 60 mils thick.
- Seams are sealed using liquid adhesives or special formulated tape.
- The membranes commonly are black, but white is available.
Material standards
NRCA does not make any recommendations about which TS product or manufacturer to use; however, NRCA does recommend that TS products meet standards established by ASTM International.
NRCA does not make any recommendations about which TS product or manufacturer to use; however, NRCA does recommend that TS products meet standards established by ASTM International.
- ASTM D4637, "Standard Specification for EPDM Sheet Used in Single Ply Roof Membrane"
- ASTM D4811, "Standard Specification for Nonvulcanized (Uncured) Rubber Sheet Used as Roof Flashing"
- ASTM D7067, "Standard Specification for Reinforced White PIB Sheet Used in Roofing Membrane"
Warranties
When purchasing a new roof system, there will be two warranties to consider. First, there will be the manufacturer's warranty. In general, these warranties cover defects in the manufacture of the roof membrane. Please read NRCA's consumer advisory bulletin addressing roofing warranties for more information. Once the project is complete, be sure the contractor provides you with a certificate for your records.
Second, the roofing contractor will provide you with a warranty covering his workmanship. Typically, this will cover installation and related issues. The warranty should contain what items are covered and what will void them. Many contractors offer one year or two years of coverage; however, there is no industry standard.
When purchasing a new roof system, there will be two warranties to consider. First, there will be the manufacturer's warranty. In general, these warranties cover defects in the manufacture of the roof membrane. Please read NRCA's consumer advisory bulletin addressing roofing warranties for more information. Once the project is complete, be sure the contractor provides you with a certificate for your records.
Second, the roofing contractor will provide you with a warranty covering his workmanship. Typically, this will cover installation and related issues. The warranty should contain what items are covered and what will void them. Many contractors offer one year or two years of coverage; however, there is no industry standard.