Membrane Roofing

Membrane Roofing for Flat or Low-sloped Roofs

Kulp's of Stratford is well known throughout Wisconsin and the Midwest for sourcing the best materials for application on any type of roof. For flat or low-sloped roofs, Kulp's relies on formulations like FiberTite or Sika Sarnafil for long-lasting durability. Most of the membrane roofs they've installed are 20 years old or more and still performing.

Why do Membrane Roofs from Kulp's last so long?

Unique Polymer Formulation

Membrane roofs are a cost-effective and efficient option for flat or low-sloped roofs, but not all membrane roof applications are equal. The membranes preferred by Kulp's are built with properly compounded KEE (Ketone Ethylene Ester), a high-molecular-weight polymer, applied to a high quality base of high denier, densely woven (like a knitted blanket) polyester fabric. They chose the best brands for durability. Lower quality membranes may shrink or distort over time, resulting in costly repairs. Not a membrane roof from Kulp's.

Chemical Resistance

When most people think of membrane roofs, they may think of periodic applications of thick, black tar to build up additional thickness to increase the lifespan of the roof. These types of roofs are made of EPDM, a vulcanized rubber compound. Kulp's knows, however, that this is not the ideal roofing solution. Not only does the black tar absorb more heat during the summer, raising cooling costs, it also isn't durable enough to stand up to chemicals and materials like animal fats, grease and diesel fuel that are often bane of commercial properties like restaurants or factories. Those compounds break down the tar and rubber membrane, which is why it must constantly be reapplied. A thin, high-tech membrane roof by Kulp's is proven to resist breakdown and deterioration by those chemical factors. In fact, most EPDM roof warranties exclude "exposure to chemicals."

Puncture Resistance

Though thin, sometimes as thin as 36 mil, a Kulp's Membrane Roofing system is puncture resistant due to its fabric backing. Similar to how bullet-proof vests used by law enforcement protect from ballistic assaults, the dense fabric integrated into the membrane maximizes puncture resistance. Hail, falling debris or other potentially sharp, devastating articles that would normally rip apart roofs are no match for a Kulp's membrane roof.

Heat-Welded Seams

One of the reasons why sub-par membrane roofs fail and require costly, repetitive maintenance is the way it was installed. By using just metal fasteners or adhesives or tapes, some roofing contractors are setting up their clients for years of potential leaks and failures. Kulp's prefers heat welding to the highest of quality-control standards that provides an almost monolithic roof covering.