Single-ply membranes, along with their installation methodologies, have evolved to best meet the roofing needs of today’s low-slope commercial buildings. Past and present systems will be presented with a focus on today’s most prevalent membranes. Discussion will include the challenges surrounding single-ply usage from a building science perspective — particularly the relationship between white membranes and condensation. Recent arguments regarding a white membrane’s effect on overall building energy efficiency will also be challenged. Finally, future trends will be outlined emphasizing the roof system as part of an integrated building envelope, not a discrete component as traditional perspectives have suggested.

Tom Taylor, is the Executive Director, Building & Roofing Science, for GAF. This position is focused on the relationships between individual roofing materials and the overall roof system and building envelope performance. Tom is a frequent presenter at both national and regional industry meetings. He has over 20 years’ experience in the building products industry, all working for manufacturing organizations in a variety of new product development roles. He received his PhD in chemistry and holds approximately 35 patents.

James Willits is the Building & Roofing Science Specialist for the western region, for GAF. This position is focused on the relationships between individual roofing materials and the overall roof system and building envelope performance. James has approximately eight years’ experience in the roofing industry, as an installer, project manager, in sales, and as a training manager. He is well regarded for presenting seminars that cover roofing theories and practice to a range of audiences. James has been with GAF since 2012.