When it comes to commercial flat roofing, we are the experts here at Enviroply Roofing. In fact, we work with a variety of clients and customers across Cumbria, and Lancashire, as well as Liverpool and Manchester, to provide high quality flat roofing solutions. This includes installing top of the range, high quality, single ply roofing membranes. These can be installed using a number of methods, including fully adhered and mechanically fixed solutions, as well as ballasted. So what is single ply ballasted roofing and what are the advantages of single ply ballasted roofing?
What is single ply ballasted roofing?
A single ply ballasted roof is a roof that is created using the durable, flexible and resilient single ply roofing membrane. This is fully sealed and is 100% waterproof. On a ballasted roof, these membranes are held in place with a good amount of ballast to prevent any movement. As a result, the single ply membranes are not adhered or anchored in place to the roof deck or structure. They are instead weighted down. Often this is completed with either:
- Paving flags
- Sedum roof
- Gravel
Whichever ballast material you opt for, a full wind load calculation will be performed prior to installation which will help to determine the amount of ballast needed. For some roofs, it may be necessary to alternate between ballast types, especially in areas where the design of the building or wind speed could cause movement.
The amount of ballast used is dependent on the individual circumstances of the building and roof. But it will always weigh above 80kg/m2.
Sedum Green roofing
If you are looking at single ply ballasted roofing options, you should seriously consider a green roof. Otherwise known as a living roof, a green roof is one that is covered in vegetation to create a rooftop habitat. In rural areas, this can help your commercial building gain planning permission, and fit in with the local surroundings. It also provides a habitat for local wildlife and helps to insulate your building.
Advantages of single ply ballasted roofing
So what are the advantages of single ply ballasted roofing? Well, there are several, including:
⦁ The usability of the space – A ballasted roof can provide an aesthetically pleasing and pleasant space to enjoy. The roof can be used as a patio, a terrace, a walkway or even a garden.
⦁ The speed of the installation – A ballasted roof is quick to install, which could help your business keep costs down, keep your construction work on time, and on budget. It can also be installed during almost any kind of weather and temperature conditions, as long as it is safe to do so. Meaning you won’t have long delays waiting for a break in the weather.
⦁ Long lasting and durable roofing system – A ballasted roof is a durable and long lasting option. Which could help your company save money in the long run. The gravel stones or concrete paving slabs used as a ballast can protect the waterproofing membrane from UV rays, heavy weather conditions, and foot traffic. Which means it is less likely to need repairing during the course of its lifespan.
⦁ Energy efficient- Finally, the materials used on a ballasted roof can absorb the heat during the day, but they won’t pass this onto the building underneath. Which means that your company can save money on heating and cooling and reduce energy consumption.
For more information about installing a single ply ballasted roof, get in touch with the experts today, here at Enviroply Roofing.