Top 10 Commercial Roofing Acronyms Deciphered

In a world of LOL, SMH, WFH and more, getting lost in letters is easy. We can’t help you translate your teen’s texts, but we can shed some light on the top roofing acronyms. Get ready to geek out on some roofing knowledge….

• BUR – Built Up Roofing – A roof system comprised of layers of bitumen (asphalt or coal tar) and reinforcing piles (felts or fabrics) and surfacing (options include aggregate, ceramic granules, liquid coatings).
• CLP – Cross Linked Polymers – A single-ply alternative roof replacement system exclusive to Simon Roofing that uses cross-linked polymers for maximum strength and wear characteristics.
• CSPE – Chlorosulfonated Polyethylene – A synthetic, rubber-like thermoset material that is highly resistant to the effects of ozone.
• EPDM – Ethylene Propylene Diene Terpolymer – A thermosetting synthetic elastomer used in single-ply membranes consisting of a terpolymer of ethylene, propylene and diene.
• IRMA – Inverted Roof Membrane Assembly – A roofing system commonly used on modern high-rise buildings where the conventional membrane is turned upside-down.
• Mod Bit – Modified Bitumen – Roofing sheets that are created with asphalt, which has been modified with plastic or rubber.
• PMR – Protected Membrane Roof – A roofing assembly where the insulation and ballast are applied on top of the membrane for added protection against various elements.
• PVC – Polyvinyl Chloride – A single-ply roofing system comprised of a membrane made from the synthetic polymer polyvinyl chloride.
• SPF – Spray Polyurethane Foam – An adhered roofing system produced from the onsite reaction of an isocyanate with a polyol, which expands to form a solid, seamless foam surface.
• TPO – Thermoplastic Polyolefin – A single-ply roofing membrane system comprised of a blend of thermoplastic elastomers and fillers.