Low-Slope Membrane Roofing Product Guidance

Use the red-to-green product guidance below to select safer product types by avoiding those in red and preferring yellow and green, which are safer for occupants, fenceline communities, and workers.

When choosing roofing membrane materials for flat or low-slope roofs:

• Prefer thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) roofing membranes.
• If using a single-ply roofing membrane, avoid polyvinyl chloride (PVC).
• Prefer mechanically fastened or ballasted systems over fully-adhered systems.
• If specifying fully adhered roofing, check with manufacturers to determine if water-based adhesives can be used with the roofing system and prefer them over other adhesives.
• Ask for disclosure of any flame retardants, and avoid products containing halogenated flame retardants.
• Avoid applying silicone coatings or coatings containing per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), such as PVDF (polyvinylidene fluoride), to roofing membranes.
• If opting for asphalt-based roofing, choose modified bituminous membranes over conventional built-up roofing (BUR).
• Avoid PMMA fluid-applied and spray polyurethane foam roofing.