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Introducing the THICKEST Top-Ply Under the Sun

Top-Ply illustrationSome commercial roofing installations require more durability and puncture-resistance than traditional single-ply roofing membranes can provide. A new extra-thick TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) membrane has the added strength and durability for commercial structures that demand maximum puncture resistance.

Stevens EP-XL, from Stevens Roofing Systems, is an 80 mil thick (2 mm) scrim reinforced TPO membrane. With up to 34 mils (.863 mm) of over-scrim coverage, Stevens EP-XL membrane offers the thickest top-ply coverage in the TPO industry. This translates to greater puncture-resistance and durability. While TPO membranes such as 45 and 60 mil Stevens EP material typically offer superior puncture-resistance compared to other single-ply roofing materials, such as PVC and EPDM, Stevens EP-XL goes even further, with a puncture resistance of 450 lbf. and a break strength up to 430 lbf.

“It is clear that thicker membranes have a place in the commercial roofing market,” said Vincent McPartland, vice president of global marketing and business development for Stevens Roofing. “The addition of this highly durable 80 mil membrane is a natural extension to our line of 45 (1.14 mm) and 60 mil (1.52 mm) Stevens EP and Stevens EP-Fleece membranes. It is an ideal product for new or re-roofing applications that require a thicker, more durable material.”

Stevens EP-XL membrane can be used in any application where an architect, designer, building owner, roof consultant or roofing contractor wants a thicker, more durable material on the roof. Schools, hospitals, manufacturing plants and other commercial structures, particularly high-traffic roofs, are all candidates for this new thick TPO.

Stevens EP-XL membrane has achieved Underwriters Laboratory Class A fire resistance classifications (UL 790), at slopes up to one inch over most polyisocyanurate insulation and unlimited slope over gypsum. Mechanically attached Stevens EP-XL has achieved Factory Mutual Windstorm Classification Ratings of 1-60, 1-90, 1-120, 1-135, 1-150 and 1-195.

Tough As Nails, Easy On The Environment

PhotoIn addition to being tough and strong, Stevens EP-XL membranes address some key environmental issues too. As with all TPOs, Stevens EP-XL is manufactured without any plasticizers or chlorinated components, so it is ideally suited for applications where environmental issues are a concern.

In addition, white Stevens EP-XL membranes are highly reflective, so they minimize heat build up and save on cooling costs. They qualify for the EPA Energy Star® Roof Products Program, and help designers to qualify for points in the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED Program.

Easy To Work With, Versatile Installation Options

Stevens EP-XL is available in white, and packaged on rolls 76.5-inches wide x 75-feet long providing approximately 450 square fee of coverage per roll, a big labor savings compared to many other ‘thick’ roofing materials. Stevens EP-XL is also available in 38.25-in. wide x 75-foot long perimeter sheet rolls, as well as in custom length rolls up to 100-feet in one-foot increments.

Installation methods include mechanical attachment, stone ballasted, paver ballasted, and vented roofing systems (VRS). In addition, all the standard Stevens Roofing Systems details and components such as pre-molded corners, pipe boots, vent gloves, walkway rolls, Stevens insulations, and Stevens Edge Metal Systems, are compatible with the Stevens EP-XL membrane. In addition, Stevens EP-XL comes with a free 15-year material warranty and is available with the Stevens PunctureGuard warranty and the Stevens GoGreen Reflectivity warranty.

For more information about Stevens EP-XL, visit the literature section of www.stevensroofing.com; send email to info@stvroof.com or call (877) TPO-ROOF, ext. 1004. End of article

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