Roof Division

Protecting Industrial Facilities with Proven Roofing Solutions
Your roof is more than a surface — it’s the shield that safeguards production, people, and profit. We deliver roofing systems built for the complexity and scale of industrial facilities.

Our Approach

  • Assess → Every project starts with a full assessment of your facility, risks, and long-term needs.

  • Guide → We recommend solutions we’d choose if it were our own building, balancing performance and budget.

  • Deliver → Our team executes at industrial scale with precision, safety, and minimal downtime.

Services We Provide

  • Technical assessments

  • Full roof replacements & retrofits for large facilities

  • Long-term maintenance & asset management programs (Options for 1, 3, and 5 year maintenance and capital plans)

  • Emergency response & repair (although we always say that our clients are less likely to have emergencies)

  • Energy-efficient upgrades (insulation upgrades, reflective membranes, solar options)

The RBS Advantage

  • Industrial-first: Focused on the needs of manufacturing, distribution, pharma, food & beverage, and energy facilities.

  • Experience you can trust: Decades of work with leaders like 3M, Trillium, Coca-Cola, and Lafarge.

  • Built for scale: From 3-year maintenance plans to projects ranging from $1M–$10M+, delivered with the systems and safety protocols of a true industrial partner.

2-Ply Modified Bitumen (Conventional)

  • Modified Bitumen (MB) is asphalt that has had modifiers added to it to give it plastic or rubber-like properties. The most common types of modifiers being used are APP (Atactic Polypropylene) and SBS (Styrene Butadiene Styrene). Fiberglass or Kevlar membrane reinforcement.

    A conventional 2-ply modified bitumen roof is built with two layers of SBS-modified asphalt membrane (a base ply and a cap ply), typically installed over insulation and a vapor barrier. The plies are reinforced with polyester or fiberglass mats for tensile strength and elasticity. Installation can be done by torch-applied, mop-applied hot asphalt, or cold adhesives.

    This system has been a mainstay of Canadian roofing for decades because it balances redundancy, toughness, and cold-weather performance.

  • Advantages

    • Proven track record — decades of reliable performance across Canada.

    • Excellent cold-climate performance — SBS remains flexible in freeze-thaw cycles.

    • Durability — tough membrane resists punctures and traffic.

    • Ease of repair — localized damage can be patched with relative simplicity.

    • Design flexibility — can be installed with torch, mop, or cold adhesives depending on site conditions.

    • Recovery and renewal capabilities — One of the largest advantages of 2-ply roofing is its ability to be renewed late in its service life without full replacement. When the membrane begins to show fatigue (e.g. surface granule loss, minor cracking, or weathering), the roof can often be cleaned, primed, and overlaid with an additional cap sheet.

    Considerations

    • Torch application risks — open-flame work can create fire hazards during installation.

    • Upfront cost — more expensive than single-ply alternatives.

    • Proper sloping required — compared to inverted assemblies or other systems, 2-ply conventional systems have a lesser tolerance for ponded water.

  • 20 years, and up to 25 years with good drainage, detailing and maintenance.

  • Durability: 9/10 (excellent puncture resistance, redundant multi-ply protection)
    Cold climate performance: 9/10 (flexible SBS handles freeze-thaw well)
    Lifecycle expectancy: 8/10 (20 years, up to 25 with strong detailing)
    Installation flexibility: 8/10 (multiple application methods, widely known)
    Cost-effectiveness: 7/10 (more expensive than single-ply, but proven)
    Energy performance: 8/10 (reflective cap sheets available)

    Overall RBS Score: 8.5 / 10

  • 10, 12, 15, 20, 25 yrs

    Options for Membrane Warranty or Total System No-Dollar Limit (NDL) Warranties.

  • Brown, Grey, Black, White, Green, Black.

    Other custom colours available upon enquiry.

Inverted 2-Ply Modified Bitumen

  • Similar membrane type to conventional, but on inverted roofs the membrane is directly placed over deck (usually concrete). Also know as a PMR (Protected Membrane Roof).

    Two-ply SBS membrane installed in inverted assembly. XPS (closed-cell) insulation and filter fabric placed above, held with ballast/pavers. Protects the waterproofing membrane from UV, thermal swings, and traffic.

  • Advantages

    • Membrane Protection — membrane is shielded beneath insulation, filter fabric, and ballast/pavers, eliminating UV exposure and reducing wear from traffic or hail.

    • Extended Service Life — commonly achieves 20–30 years of performance, among the longest of conventional flat roof systems.

    • Thermal Stability — placing insulation above the membrane limits temperature swings and reduces stress on the waterproofing.

    • Ease of Service — insulation can be upgraded or replaced without disturbing the waterproofing layer.

    • Solar-Ready — ballast/paver design makes the system ideal for ballasted solar PV arrays that avoid roof penetrations, protecting membrane integrity.

    • Proven in Canada — excellent resilience in freeze-thaw conditions.

    Considerations

    • Higher Initial Cost — requires additional materials (XPS insulation, pavers, ballast) and more detailing.

    • Structural Load — ballast and pavers add significant dead load; building must be engineered to accommodate.

    • Complex Detailing — edges, drains, and transitions require careful design to prevent water entrapment.

    • Hidden Membrane — inspection and repair is more challenging since the membrane is not exposed; moisture scans are often needed.

  • 20–30 years, among the most durable flat roof systems.

  • Durability: 10/10 (membrane fully protected by ballast/pavers)
    Cold climate performance: 9/10 (excellent under Canadian conditions)
    Lifecycle expectancy: 9/10 (20–30 years)
    Installation flexibility: 9/10 (ideal for plazas, traffic-bearing roofs)
    Cost-effectiveness: 8/10 (higher upfront, offset by longevity)
    Energy performance: 9/10 (insulation above membrane improves thermal stability)

    Overall RBS Score: 9.0 / 10

Roof top with metal panels and a clear blue sky with a few clouds.

Fully-Adhered EPDM

  • Fully-adhered EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) membranes are manufactured in large sheet sizes — commonly up to 50 feet wide and 200 feet long — which minimizes field seams. The membrane is adhered directly to the substrate (insulation or cover board) with bonding adhesives, creating a continuous attachment across the roof surface. Seams are spliced with factory-applied seam tape or liquid adhesives, depending on the formulation. Reinforced EPDM options are available for increased puncture and tear resistance.

    Adhesion eliminates flutter and billowing under wind loads, making the system suitable for high-wind or irregular roof shapes. Accessories such as cured flashing, uncured flashing, and preformed details are available to maintain continuity at penetrations, edges, and terminations.

  • Advantages

    • Excellent cold-weather performance — remains flexible in sub-zero conditions.

    • Lightweight system, minimal structural loading.

    • Large sheets minimize seams, reducing potential leak points.

    • Adhesion resists wind uplift, ideal for high-wind zones.

    • Easy to repair with patching materials.

    Considerations

    • Adhesive-bonded seams weaker than hot-air welded systems.

    • Membrane vulnerable to punctures compared to multi-ply.

    • Adhesive application requires specific weather conditions (temperature/humidity).

    • Black membrane absorbs heat unless coated with reflective finishes.

  • Typically 20-25 years depending on roof traffic.

  • Durability: 7/10 (strong membrane, but puncture-prone)
    Cold climate performance: 8/10 (remains flexible in sub-zero temps)
    Lifecycle expectancy: 7/10 (20–25 years)
    Installation flexibility: 7/10 (large sheets, but adhesive seams less robust)
    Cost-effectiveness: 8/10 (economical overall)
    Energy performance: 7/10 (black absorbs heat; reflective coatings possible)

    Overall RBS Score: 7.5 / 10

Rooftop with gravel surface and a drainage grate surrounded by small rocks, with a corrugated metal wall and buildings with signs in the background.

Ballasted EPDM

  • Ballasted EPDM membranes are loose-laid across the substrate and held in place by stone ballast (typically smooth river rock, 1,000–1,200 lbs per square) or precast pavers. The system relies on weight for stability rather than adhesives or fasteners, meaning the membrane has very few penetrations. Large sheet sizes reduce seams, while ballast provides UV shielding and protects the membrane from mechanical damage.

    Because the waterproofing layer is concealed under ballast, ballasted EPDM requires minimal adhesives and fasteners, reducing installation time and material cost. Leak detection can be more challenging, but ballast makes the system well-suited for installations where rapid coverage and UV protection are priorities.

  • Advantages

    • Fast, economical installation with minimal adhesives.

    • Ballast protects membrane from UV and mechanical damage.

    • Minimal roof penetrations (avoids fastener stress points).

    • Easy to replace or repair sections of membrane.

    • Proven track record for large, unobstructed roof areas.

    Considerations

    • Very heavy; adds significant structural dead load.

    • Leak detection is more difficult with membrane buried under ballast.

    • Not suitable for roofs with many penetrations or complex detailing.

    • Ballast can shift, requiring maintenance to redistribute.

    • Black membrane under ballast provides less energy reflectivity compared to “cool roof” systems.

  • 20-25 years if maintained

  • Durability: 6/10 (protected by ballast, but puncture risks remain)
    Cold climate performance: 7/10 (flexible membrane, ballast protects)
    Lifecycle expectancy: 7/10 (20–25 years)
    Installation flexibility: 6/10 (difficult detailing around penetrations)
    Cost-effectiveness: 9/10 (low-cost, fast installation)
    Energy performance: 7/10 (ballast shields but retains heat)

    Overall RBS Score: 7.0 / 10

Flat rooftop with multiple roof vents and HVAC units under a partly cloudy sky.

TPO

  • TPO membranes are single-ply thermoplastic roofing systems manufactured from polypropylene and ethylene-propylene rubber polymerized together, reinforced with polyester scrim. Available in thicknesses ranging from 45 mils to 80+ mils, TPO is designed to balance weldability, reflectivity, and durability.

    Like PVC, seams are fused using hot-air welding, resulting in continuous, watertight bonds. TPO membranes are chlorine-free and typically marketed as more environmentally benign due to reduced halogenated content. Their bright white surface provides a high solar reflectance index (SRI) — often exceeding 82 — making them highly effective in “cool roof” applications and energy efficiency programs.

    TPO exhibits strong UV resistance and dimensional stability, though stiffness of the sheet compared to PVC can make detailing around penetrations more challenging. Performance varies significantly by manufacturer, as TPO formulations are proprietary; earlier generations (pre-2005) showed premature failures under high UV exposure, but newer products are improved.

  • The Advantages
    TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) has quickly become one of the most widely used single-ply membranes in North America. It offers excellent heat-weldable seams, UV resistance, and strong performance in reflective “cool roof” applications. The bright white surface reduces solar heat gain and can contribute to lower cooling costs. TPO is also chlorine-free and marketed as a more environmentally friendly option compared to some older systems. For building owners, TPO is attractive because it balances performance with relatively lower material cost, and installation is generally efficient.

    The Considerations
    Despite its popularity, TPO is still a newer technology compared to PVC or EPDM, with long-term track records varying by manufacturer and formulation. Some early generations of TPO were prone to premature cracking under UV exposure, and quality can differ significantly between brands. While seams are weldable, welding requires precise technique and conditions, meaning installer skill is critical. TPO also tends to be stiffer than PVC, which can make detailing around complex penetrations more challenging. As with all single-ply systems, proper design, flashing, and installation quality largely determine long-term success.

  • TPO systems are generally expected to last 20–25 years, with newer formulations aiming to extend that lifespan. The material’s reflective properties and UV resistance support longevity, but because TPO is a newer product compared to other single-ply membranes, the very longest lifespans are still being proven in the field. Well-installed systems can reach or exceed the 20+ year mark, while poorly installed systems will show early failures.

    • Durability: 7/10 (good UV resistance, but less proven long-term than PVC)

    • Cold climate performance: 7/10 (stiffer sheets, detailing challenges in freeze-thaw)

    • Lifecycle expectancy: 7/10 (20–25 years, still maturing)

    • Installation flexibility: 7/10 (requires precise welding, stiffer than PVC)

    • Cost-effectiveness: 9/10 (lower material cost, efficient installs)

    • Energy performance: 9/10 (very high reflectivity, “cool roof” leader)

    Overall RBS Score: 7.5 / 10

View of a flat rooftop with various HVAC equipment, tools, and spray foam insulation, under a cloudy sky.

PVC

  • PVC membranes are thermoplastic single-ply roofing systems manufactured from polyvinyl chloride resin, plasticizers, stabilizers, and reinforcement scrims. The sheets are typically produced in thicknesses ranging from 45 mils to 80+ mils, with either polyester or fiberglass reinforcement for dimensional stability.

    Seams are heat-welded using hot-air welding equipment, creating a monolithic, chemical-resistant bond that is stronger than the sheet itself. PVC membranes are inherently fire-resistant and exhibit superior resistance to a wide range of chemicals, greases, and industrial by-products, making them well suited for food processing plants, manufacturing facilities, and industrial complexes.

    Surface colors are generally white or light gray, with solar reflectance index (SRI) values exceeding 78, contributing to “cool roof” performance under ASHRAE 90.1 and LEED standards. The material remains flexible across a wide temperature range, though older formulations may embrittle in cold climates due to plasticizer migration. Expected service life under proper specification and installation is 25–30 years.

  • The Advantages
    PVC single-ply membranes have a strong reputation in industrial and commercial roofing for their durability and chemical resistance. They perform particularly well in facilities where oils, fats, or harsh chemicals may be present — such as food processing, manufacturing, or chemical handling. The material is inherently flexible, weldable, and resistant to fire, making installation and detailing around penetrations straightforward. White or light-colored PVC membranes also offer high reflectivity, which helps reduce heat gain and can contribute to energy savings.

    The Considerations
    Like any system, PVC has limitations. In colder climates, membranes can become brittle with age, making impact resistance a concern. Some formulations are susceptible to plasticizer migration over time, which can lead to shrinkage or cracking if not properly specified. Upfront cost is often higher than alternative membranes, and compatibility issues may arise when PVC comes into contact with certain roofing materials. Proper design, detailing, and installation are critical to ensure performance over the expected service life.

  • When properly specified and installed, PVC roofing systems typically deliver 25–30 years of service life. Their resistance to chemicals, oils, and fire make them especially durable in industrial environments, and many systems have proven long-term track records. However, performance depends on membrane thickness, formulation, and installation quality. Thinner gauge thickness membranes or poor detailing will shorten service life.

  • PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

    • Durability (esp. chemical resistance): 9/10

    • Cold climate performance: 8/10 (solid track record, though brittleness risk over long term)

    • Lifecycle expectancy: 9/10 (25–30 years proven)

    • Installation flexibility: 8/10 (excellent welding, easy details)

    • Cost-effectiveness: 6/10 (higher upfront costs)

    • Energy performance: 8/10 (reflective, proven “cool roof”)

    Overall RBS Score: 8.0 / 10

Rooftop with gravel surface, multiple vents and exhaust fans, building structures in the background, and a clear blue sky.

4-Ply BUR

  • A 4-ply BUR is a multi-layered roofing assembly composed of alternating layers of bituminous adhesive (traditionally asphalt or coal tar pitch, now often oxidized asphalt) and roofing felts or fiberglass mats. Each felt layer is embedded into hot asphalt, creating a continuous, redundant waterproofing barrier. A standard 4-ply system includes four felts, fully mopped between layers, and is topped with a flood coat of asphalt and protective surfacing — typically gravel ballast, slag, or a reflective coating.

    The multiple plies provide redundancy: even if one ply is damaged, the others maintain waterproofing integrity. BUR assemblies are typically applied over a thermal insulation layer and vapor barrier, with cover boards used to enhance dimensional stability.

    This system is heavy and robust, with high resistance to foot traffic, punctures, and mechanical damage. Surfacing protects the bitumen from UV degradation. Although it is becoming less common these days, a 4-ply BUR provides a continuous monolithic assembly that has been serving industrial facilities for over a century.

  • Advantages

    • Redundancy & Durability: Four separate plies of reinforcement embedded in asphalt create a robust, time-tested waterproofing assembly.

    • Puncture Resistance: Excellent performance against foot traffic and mechanical abuse compared to single-ply membranes.

    • Proven Track Record: Over 100 years of industry history with well-documented long-term performance.

    • UV & Fire Protection: Surfacing (gravel or coatings) shields the membrane from sunlight and can improve fire resistance.

    • Excellent for Heavy-Use Roofs: Performs well where equipment access, maintenance traffic, or abuse is expected.

    Considerations

    • Weight: Adds significant dead load; not always suitable for lighter structures.

    • Installation Complexity: Requires skilled crews and hot asphalt kettles, which introduce odors and safety risks.

    • Public Concerns: Hot tar kettle fumes can create disruptions and complaints in sensitive, occupied buildings.

    • Cost: Typically higher installed cost due to labor and material intensity.

    • Moisture Concerns: Multiple layers can trap water if leaks occur, complicating detection and repair.

  • Properly installed and maintained, a 4-ply BUR can last 20–30 years, sometimes longer when paired with reflective coatings and preventive maintenance programs. The redundancy of multiple plies provides a long service window, though surfacing and asphalt must be protected against UV degradation to reach full service life.

  • Durability: 8/10 (multi-ply redundancy)
    Cold climate performance: 8/10 (stable, robust in freeze-thaw)
    Lifecycle expectancy: 8/10 (20–30 years)
    Installation flexibility: 6/10 (labor-intensive, heavy system)
    Cost-effectiveness: 7/10 (high material/labor, costly disposal)
    Energy performance: 7/10 (gravel provides some reflectivity)

    Overall RBS Score: 7.5 / 10