Frequently asked questions

Single ply is a flexible waterproofing membrane laid in one layer (rather than the multiple layers of traditional felt) and sealed at the joints to form one continuous skin. It is the system used on most modern commercial and domestic flat roofs because it is durable, light and long lasting.

A correctly installed single ply roof typically lasts 25 to 35 years, and many manufacturers back the membrane with a guarantee of 20 years or more. Lifespan depends on the system, the detailing and the quality of the installation, which is exactly where a specialist installer earns their keep.

For most flat roofs, yes. Single ply has far fewer joints than built-up felt, is not reliant on a naked flame to install, and stays flexible in cold weather instead of cracking. Felt still has its place on smaller budgets, but single ply usually offers a longer, more reliable life.

We are approved installers of Renolit, Fatra, Sika, Protan, Bauder, IKO, Icopal, Westwood, Triflex and Centaur systems, and we are an award-winning Renolit installer. Working across several manufacturers means we specify the right membrane for your roof rather than the only one we are trained on.

Single ply is our specialism, but it is not always the best answer. Where it is not, we also install PMMA and polyurethane liquid coatings and other proven waterproofing systems. We will recommend the system that suits your roof, its detailing and its access, not just the one we fit most often.

Cost depends on the size of the roof, the system specified, the insulation required and access. Rather than guess, we carry out a free survey and give you a clear written quote with no obligation, so you know exactly what you are paying for before any work starts.

Yes. The membrane itself is waterproof, and the joints are heat welded into a continuous seal rather than glued, so there are no weak laps for water to get under. Correct falls and detailing around upstands, outlets and edges are what keep it watertight for the long term.

Seams are joined by hot air welding, which fuses the overlapping sheets together into a single homogeneous bond. A properly welded seam is as strong as the membrane itself and will not peel or open up the way an adhesive lap can over time.

Both are welded thermoplastic membranes. PVC has a long, proven track record and excellent flexibility and chemical resistance, while TPO is valued for its environmental profile. We will explain which suits your roof during the survey; for most domestic and commercial work either gives an excellent result when fitted correctly.

Sometimes, if the existing deck and insulation are sound and dry, an overlay is possible and can save time and money. More often, stripping back to the deck lets us check the structure, upgrade the insulation to current standards and guarantee the whole build up. We will tell you honestly which is right for your roof.

Yes. As approved installers we fit manufacturer-backed systems that carry guarantees of 20 years and upwards on the membrane, and we stand behind our own workmanship as well. You receive the paperwork that confirms the cover.

A typical domestic flat roof or extension is usually completed in a few days, weather permitting. Larger or more complex commercial roofs take longer. We give you a realistic timescale with your quote and keep you updated if anything changes on site.

Most flat roof replacements now have to meet current building regulations for thermal performance, which usually means adding or upgrading insulation to form a warm roof. We design the build up to comply and to keep your rooms warmer and your energy bills lower.

Yes. We regularly fit roof lanterns, flat rooflights and walk-on glazing into single ply roofs. The membrane is dressed neatly into the kerb and welded to form a watertight detail around the opening.

Single ply is fine for occasional maintenance access. For roofs that will be used as a terrace or balcony, we specify a walkway or paving system, or a membrane and finish rated for foot traffic, so the waterproofing is not damaged by regular use.

Yes. Several of the systems we install are designed to sit beneath green roof build ups, with root resistant membranes and the correct drainage layers. If you are planning a sedum or wildflower roof, we will specify a system suited to it.

Yes. Unlike some systems, single ply does not rely on dry, warm conditions to cure, and hot air welding works in cold weather. We avoid laying in heavy rain or snow for quality reasons, but winter is not a barrier to getting your roof done.

Most ranges offer grey, anthracite, white, lead and other shades, so the roof can be matched to the building or to neighbouring properties. We will show you the options for the system we recommend.

The systems we install carry the relevant fire classifications for roofing, and we build them up to meet the requirements for your property. This is particularly important on commercial buildings and where roofs are close to boundaries.

Most flat roof leaks come from failed joints, splits in old felt, blocked or poorly positioned outlets, or worn detailing around upstands and flashings. Ponding water from poor falls is another common culprit. We trace the real cause rather than just patching the symptom.

Often, yes. If the membrane is sound and the problem is a localised detail or a damaged area, a welded repair restores the seal and extends the life of the roof. If the roof is at the end of its life, we will say so and quote for replacement instead of throwing good money after bad.

Replacing a flat roof on a like for like basis does not usually need planning permission, but building regulations apply to the thermal performance when you renew a significant area. New extensions and structural changes have their own requirements. We will flag anything relevant during the survey.

Yes. We waterproof balconies and terraces with single ply and finish them with a suitable walking surface, whether that is paving on supports, decking or a trafficable membrane, so the area is both watertight and usable.

Good drainage starts with correct falls. Where the existing structure allows, we build tapered insulation to create falls to the outlets so water clears the roof instead of sitting on it. We also make sure outlets and gutters are sized and positioned to cope with heavy rain.

Yes. Planned maintenance, gutter and outlet clearance and minor repairs add years to a flat roof and protect manufacturer guarantees that often require upkeep. We offer one-off and recurring maintenance for both domestic and commercial clients.

Always. We survey your roof, explain your options and give you a clear written quote with no obligation and no pressure. If a repair is the sensible choice rather than a full replacement, we will tell you.

We are based in Armthorpe and cover Doncaster, Rotherham, Barnsley and everywhere within roughly 20 miles, across South Yorkshire and into the edges of Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire and West Yorkshire. If you are near Doncaster, we almost certainly cover you.