Single-ply membrane roofing dominates modern UK warehouse construction. PVC (Sika Sarnafil, IKO Spectraplan), TPO (Firestone UltraPly), EPDM (Firestone RubberGard), and modified bitumen (Bauder) systems all support ballasted PV mounting with proper warranty preservation. Each manufacturer has approved partners and pre-engineered solutions.
Manufacturer compatibility
Sika Sarnafil PVC: long history with PV, approved ballasted partners (ClickFit, K2 Systems, Renusol). Sarnasolar® pre-fabricated PV-ready membrane available for new builds. IKO Spectraplan / Polimar PVC: multiple approved mounting systems. Spectraplan PV-Ready membrane available. Firestone UltraPly TPO: excellent — broad partner ecosystem. Firestone RubberGard EPDM: established PV partners. Bauder modified bitumen: common on older UK warehouse stock — established ballasted solutions.
Warranty preservation requirements
Membrane manufacturers typically require: ballasted mounting only (no penetration); slip sheets or rubber pads between ballast and membrane; manufacturer-approved mounting partners; manufacturer pre-design review for systems above certain capacity thresholds (varies by manufacturer). We coordinate manufacturer review for every project.
Membrane condition assessment
During structural survey we verify: membrane age (most have 25-30 year design life); seam condition; UV degradation; existing penetration condition; insulation integrity beneath. Membranes within 5-10 years of life expiry are best dealt with via re-membrane + PV combined project rather than PV on existing.
Common questions about membrane roof
Will membrane warranty be preserved?
Yes, with ballasted mounting and manufacturer-approved partners. Each manufacturer (Sika, IKO, Firestone, Bauder) has standard PV-mounting approval processes. We coordinate the approval for every project.
What if our membrane is 15+ years old?
Membrane condition assessment is part of our structural survey. Membranes within 5-10 years of design life expiry (25-30 years total) are best dealt with via combined re-membrane + PV rather than PV on existing membrane.
Are there PV-ready membrane options?
Yes. Sika Sarnasolar® and IKO Spectraplan PV-Ready are factory-bonded membranes designed for PV from new. Useful for new-build warehouses planned with solar from day one. Cost premium 5-10% over standard membrane.