COATBRIDGE OFFICE
Unit 18, The Fountain Business Centre, Ellis Street, Coatbridge, ML5 3AA
GLASGOW OFFICE
Clyde Offices 2nd Floor, 48 West George Street, Glasgow, G2 1BP
STRATHAVEN OFFICE
Unit 6C, Caledonia Road, Strathaven, Lanarkshire, ML10 6AX
Working Hrs : 9.00am to 6.00pm
Durability: These membranes are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, UV exposure, and temperature fluctuations, offering a long lifespan.
Lightweight: Single-ply systems are typically lighter than traditional roofing materials, reducing the structural load on the building.
Ease of Installation: They are relatively easy to install, often requiring fewer seams and faster application times, which can lead to lower labor costs.
Energy Efficiency: Many single-ply materials are available in reflective options, helping to reduce heat absorption and lower energy costs for cooling.
Low Maintenance: Once installed, single-ply roofs require minimal maintenance, making them a cost-effective long-term option.
Seamless Options: Many single-ply systems offer the option of large sheets, minimizing seams and potential leak points.
Versatility: Suitable for various building types, including commercial and residential properties, and can be installed on new or existing roofs.
Environmentally Friendly: Some single-ply materials are made from recycled content and can be fully recyclable at the end of their life.
These benefits make single-ply flat roofing an attractive option for many building owners.
Installation:
Single-ply flat roofing is a versatile and efficient roofing system. Here are some key points about its installation:
Material Types: Single-ply roofing materials fall into two main categories:
Thermoplastics: These include materials like EPDM rubber, TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin), and PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride).
Synthetic Rubber: This category mainly consists of EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer).
Single Layer: Unlike traditional multi-layered roofs, single-ply roofing is installed in one complete layer. This makes it more flexible and easier to maintain.
Material Sheets: Single-ply roofing comprises flexible sheets of synthetic polymer. These sheets can be either entirely homogeneous or include a reinforcement layer.
Lifespan:
The lifespan of a flat roof can vary significantly based on the type of material used.
Choosing between Fatra flat roof membranes and torch-on felt roofing depends on several factors including performance, longevity, installation safety, environmental impact, and cost-effectiveness. Here’s a detailed comparison highlighting why Fatra flat roof membrane is generally considered a superior product over traditional torch-on felt:
Material Technology & Performance
Fatra Membrane:
Made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride) or TPO, which are high-performance synthetic materials.
Offers high UV resistance, chemical resistance, and dimensional stability.
Typically reinforced with polyester mesh or glass fleece for additional strength.
Torch-On Felt:
Made from bitumen-based materials layered with mineral surfaces.
Bitumen can degrade over time due to UV exposure, leading to cracks and leaks.
Verdict: Fatra membranes are far more durable and resistant to weathering, particularly UV degradation.
Lifespan and Durability
Fatra Membrane:
Typical lifespan of 30–40+ years with minimal maintenance.
Joints are heat-welded, forming a homogeneous and watertight seam.
Torch-On Felt:
Lifespan is typically 10–20 years, depending on maintenance.
Vulnerable to cracking and blistering over time.
Verdict: Fatra offers longer-lasting and more reliable protection.
Installation Safety
Fatra Membrane:
Installed using cold application methods – either mechanically fixed, bonded, or ballasted.
No open flames, reducing fire risks significantly.
Torch-On Felt:
Requires open flame torches for application.
Higher risk of fire hazards, especially near timber structures or insulation.
Verdict: Fatra is far safer to install, particularly in urban or occupied environments.
Maintenance and Repair
Fatra Membrane:
Easy to inspect and repair.
Patches can be heat-welded onto existing membrane seamlessly.
Torch-On Felt:
Repairs can be trickier and often require partial re-roofing.
Prone to moisture ingress if the felt is compromised.
Verdict: Fatra membranes offer easier and more effective maintenance.
Environmental Impact
Fatra Membrane:
Often manufactured with recyclable materials and lower VOC emissions.
Can be installed as part of green roofing systems (e.g., Fatra’s green roof-compatible options).
Torch-On Felt:
Bitumen is a petroleum product and less eco-friendly.
Installation process can produce harmful fumes.
Verdict: Fatra membranes are generally more environmentally friendly.
Aesthetics & Versatility
Fatra Membrane:
Available in various colors and finishes.
Can accommodate complex roof shapes and detailing.
Torch-On Felt:
Limited aesthetic appeal.
More difficult to install neatly around penetrations and upstands.
Verdict: Fatra offers greater design flexibility and cleaner appearance.
Cost Consideration
Fatra Membrane:
Higher upfront cost, but lower lifecycle cost due to longevity and reduced maintenance.
Torch-On Felt:
Cheaper initially, but often results in higher long-term costs due to repairs and shorter lifespan.
Verdict: Fatra is more cost-effective in the long term
Conclusion: Why Fatra is Better| Feature | Fatra Membrane | Torch-On Felt |
|---|---|---|
| Lifespan | 30–40+ years | 10–20 years |
| UV Resistance | Excellent | Poor |
| Installation Safety | No flame (safe) | Open flame (hazard) |
| Maintenance | Easy | Difficult |
| Eco-Friendliness | High | Low |
| Design Flexibility | High | Low |
| Total Cost of Ownership | Lower over time | Higher over time |
If you’re seeking a modern, safe, and high-performance roofing system, Fatra membranes are a better choice than torch-on felt in nearly every category, especially for commercial and long-term residential applications.
