Single Ply Roofing: Reinforced Membranes Every Homeowner Should Understand

If you’re in Gainesville or surrounding areas like Dawsonville, Cumming, or Flowery Branch and considering roofing for a flat or low-slope structure—your garage, sunroom, or even a commercial building—single ply reinforced membranes are worth your attention.

These systems offer an effective combination of durability, flexibility, and energy efficiency. And at L&L Roofing & Construction, we’ve seen firsthand how these membranes perform under the Georgia heat, heavy rain, and even hail.

What Is Single Ply Reinforced Roofing?

Single ply roofing membranes are factory-made sheets of synthetic material, commonly made of TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin), PVC (polyvinyl chloride), or EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer). The "reinforced" version includes a fabric or mesh layer—usually polyester or fiberglass—built into the membrane for extra strength.

There are two main types:

• Thermoplastics (TPO and PVC): Heat-weldable seams. Great UV resistance.

• Thermosets (EPDM): Rubber-like with glued seams. Exceptional flexibility in colder temps.

Why Choose Reinforced Membranes?

These are not your average flat roof coatings. Reinforced single ply membranes are built to last and perform, especially when properly installed by a certified contractor.

Here’s what makes them stand out:

• Strength & Tear Resistance
  The reinforcement adds significant resistance to punctures, impacts, and foot traffic. Ideal for roofs that might need occasional maintenance access.

• Energy Savings
  White TPO and PVC membranes reflect sunlight, helping reduce heat buildup inside your home or building. This lowers your cooling bills in the Georgia summer.

• Weather Resistance
  Reinforced membranes stand up to wind uplift, hail damage, and ponding water when installed with proper slope and drainage.

• Lightweight Yet Durable
  These membranes don’t add much weight to the structure, but they hold up well over time with minimal maintenance.

Common Applications in Our Area

We often recommend reinforced single ply membranes for:

• Low-slope residential roofs
  (think attached garages, sunrooms, or porches)

• Flat commercial buildings

• Additions with minimal pitch

• Churches and modular buildings

We’ve installed them in areas like Coal Mountain and Buford, especially where appearance, energy performance, and low maintenance are priorities.

Installation: What to Expect

There are several methods of installation:

• Mechanically attached (fastened through insulation)

• Fully adhered (glued down to substrate)

• Ballasted (held down by gravel—rare in residential settings)

At L&L Roofing, we typically recommend fully adhered TPO or PVC membranes for residential projects due to their clean look and high wind resistance.

We inspect the decking and slope carefully to ensure proper drainage—standing water is a roof’s worst enemy.

Do You Need a Reinforced Membrane?

If your current low-slope roof is:

• Leaking frequently

• Over 15 years old

• Holding standing water

• Costing you in energy bills

...then it might be time to consider a single ply replacement. We offer free inspections and can walk you through the best option for your home or building.

FAQs

How long does a single ply membrane last?
Most systems, when reinforced and professionally installed, last 20–30 years or more with minimal maintenance.

Is reinforced better than non-reinforced?
Yes—for durability, especially in high-wind or high-traffic areas. The added fabric layer provides essential tensile strength and puncture resistance.

Can you install this over an old roof?
Sometimes. It depends on the existing system's condition. We’ll evaluate whether a tear-off or recover is the better route.

What colors are available?
White is most common for energy efficiency, but some manufacturers offer gray, tan, or reflective finishes.

Need expert guidance?

We’re here to help.

At L&L Roofing & Construction, we install every membrane system like we’d do it on our own homes—with honesty, integrity, and precision. Our crews are trained to manufacturer standards and we never cut corners.

Want to talk about your roof?
Call us today at (770) 874-0372 or visit www.llroofs.com to schedule a free consultation.