Using Self-Adhered Roof Membranes and Other Time-Saving Roofing Tips

By Karen L Edwards 06-30-2022
QUICK SHARE
Tag Icon

With the labor pool stretched thin, finding time-saving solutions like installing a self-adhered roof is high on many contractors' to-do lists. Saving time doesn't mean jeopardizing quality: manufacturers continually work to deliver solutions that help increase efficiencies while still delivering a first-class installation.

Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) is one of the fastest-growing single-ply roofing solutions. For instance, GAF EverGuard® TPO offers excellent protection in an affordable roofing system, making it one of the most popular choices for building owners. To help contractors save time while still delivering a high quality installation, GAF offers several time-saving tools.

1. Quick Spray Adhesive

Using spray adhesive means you can put away the roller—and time-consuming methods of applying bonding adhesive. EverGuard TPO Quick Spray Adhesive is a solvent-based adhesive that allows installers to quickly bond TPO membrane to a variety of substrates. In addition, when used properly, a Quick Spray canister can cover installation of approximately 10 squares, compared to the approximately 3 squares of installation a bucket can cover. (As with all adhesives, porosity of the substrate can impact coverage rates.) Simply spray the adhesive uniformly onto the substrate and the back of the membrane, then apply pressure with a broom or weighted roller to ensure adhesion and heat weld the seams.

2. Prefabricated Accessories

It can take a significant amount of time, experience and know-how to properly measure, cut and hand weld details. GAF has prefabricated accessories available for most details of a rooftop, offering a full line of vent and pipe boots, tube wraps, pourable sealer pockets, and universal corners that can be cut to accommodate either an inside or outside corner. You can save time and ensure consistent quality in all the flashings by choosing these ready-to-use accessories. These accessories can help contractors boost their productivity.

3. Self-Adhered TPO

You can eliminate the need to apply adhesive altogether when you choose a self-adhered roof. GAF's EverGuard® SA TPO comes with the adhesive already applied on the back of the membrane. Once positioned, the crew just folds the membrane sheet back, removes the release liner to expose the factory-applied adhesive, lays the membrane in place and brooms in the sheet before using a weighted roller. Then the crew heat welds the seams.

4. Extra-Wide Rolls

When self-adhered TPO isn't an option, roofers can make their installation time more efficient by using rolls of membrane that are wider than the standard 10 feet. GAF offers 12-foot-wide rolls of membrane that are ideal for jobs with large, open rooftop areas. Get more coverage in less time, and 20% wider rolls means fewer seams to weld.

5. Learn From the Experts

GAF offers a robust video library featuring roofing veterans Dave Scott and Wally Brown. The Roofing it Right series features how-to videos, including a Self-Adhered Membrane Product Overview. These informative and educational videos cover topics as diverse as roof inspections, core cuts, tear-offs, and installations.

Contractors can both provide quality installations and save time on the job by taking advantage of these innovative solutions. You can also reach out to your GAF Territory Manager for additional information or to discuss your specific project needs.

Don't miss another GAF RoofViews post!
LATEST UPDATES
Do you know the warning signs of poor ventilation in a house and attic? Proper ventilation is important in many ways and one of the first big things to know is that it can prolong the life of your roof system. It can also help lower your attic temperature and thereby reduce HVAC wear and tear, which may help lower utility bills and the likelihood of costly repairs. And last, but definitely not least, attic ventilation can help reduce the risk of mold, which can protect the health of your family. All-in-all, attic ventilation offers a long-term return on investment as well as potential preventative health benefits.
Michigan City has been home to a GAF manufacturing facility since 2000, supporting the community's residents through not only the nearly 200 jobs it provides but also countless hours of volunteering. The job creation and increased capacity for serving customers with the GAF Michigan City distribution center expansion is testimony to the company's dedication to building resilient communities.
Getting multiple professionals involved in a commercial roofing project offers a way to capture different perspectives—and to shine a light on some of the industry's hidden complexities—especially when it comes to challenging details like parapet walls.
Asphalt shingles are one of the most widely used roofing materials, providing an elegant yet effective look for homes while also being economical and easy to install. Here is what makes these shingles stand out from other roofing materials.
With an overall industry labor shortage, roofers are in high demand. Those contemplating a career in roofing should consider the training provided by the GAF Roofing Academy, where students can learn the skills and industrial knowledge they need to get started in the industry.
Commercial roof coatings can help extend the life and improve the aesthetics of low-slope roofs. A roof coating acts as the first line of defense against UV damage and water infiltration, and reflective roof coatings can help reduce the temperature of the roof.
This blog contains information created by a variety of sources, including internal and third party writers. The opinions and views expressed do not necessarily represent those of GAF. The content is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to constitute financial, accounting, tax or legal advice. GAF does not guarantee the accuracy, reliability, and completeness of the information. In no event shall GAF be held responsible or liable for errors or omissions in the content or for the results, damages or losses caused by or in connection with the use of or reliance on the content.

Interested in sharing or republishing our content? We kindly ask you to adhere to our guidelines.