Roof Repair: FARR System vs. Single Ply
If you are having issues with your current roof, you may be in the market to get repairs or have a reroofing done. There are many options to choose from for commercial roofs but that doesn’t mean all reroofs are created equal. Many options, such as single-ply roofing, poke your roof with tons of screws during installation. The Fluid Applied Reinforced Roofing (FARR system) is a seamless, puncture-free roof that extends the life of your current roof.
What is a FARR System?
The FARR system is layers of asphalt and polyester with an acrylic top coat that is installed directly on your existing roof. The materials go on as a liquid and harden to create a waterproof membrane that can last 50+ years.
Benefits
- The white acrylic top layer reflects the sun’s UV rays, helping to lower energy costs.
- Because this system goes directly on your current roof, the installation does not interfere with day-to-day business.
- The FARR system is considered a maintenance cost and can be a tax incentive.
What is Single-Ply?
Single-ply roofing is a prefabricated material made of synthetic polymer. Like the FARR system, single-ply can be installed on your current roof but consists of only the insulation and the TPO, PVC, or EPDM membrane layers.
Cons
- Popular single-ply roofing, such as TPO, only lasts 10-25 years.
- The seams and punctures from installation can be a point of water infiltration.
- Heavy foot traffic on single-ply can cause leaks and punctures.
Comparison
- FARR is more puncture-resistant than single-ply roofing. Because single-ply is a thin membrane, it does not have a hard protective top layer.
- If you have an HVAC system, vents, drains, or other roof accessories, FARR is easily and effectively installed around them. When single-ply is installed, holes need to be cut out to fit the measurement of these items. If the measurements or cuts are not precise it can lead to leaks and prevent the roof from being waterproof.
- FARR is UV resistant and is not easily damaged by the sun. When the seams of single-ply are exposed to UV rays, it can break down the adhesives holding it together and cause leaks. The seams can also become brittle and shrink over time.
When your roof is reaching the end of its life, you want to make sure that you choose a reroof that will help fix the issues, not punch holes through it. The FARR system is a seamless, waterproof solution to aging commercial roofs. Contact our team today here to learn more about the FARR system.
