If you’re in the market for a new roof, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the options. There are so many different types of roofs out there, and each one has its own pros and cons.
But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’re going to give you a quick rundown of what Kee Roofing is, why it’s so popular, and whether or not it’s right for your home.
What is KEE roofing? (include who makes it and if its a brand)
KEE roofing, or Ketone Ethylene Ester roofing, is a type of thermoplastic roofing membrane. It is made from a blend of polymeric materials that include ketone, ethylene, and ester compounds. KEE roofing is known for its excellent resistance to weathering, UV radiation, chemicals, and other environmental factors that can cause damage to a roof.
KEE roofing is commonly used in commercial and industrial roofing applications due to its durability and long lifespan.
It is often installed as a single-ply membrane, which means it is applied in a single layer rather than multiple layers. This can make it easier and faster to install than other roofing materials.
Overall, KEE roofing is a type of high-performance roofing material that offers excellent protection for buildings and structures.
What type of roofing membrane is used in KEE roofing?
KEE roofing uses a thermoplastic roofing membrane made from a blend of polymeric materials, including ketone, ethylene, and ester compounds. The resulting material is commonly known as KEE membrane or KEE roofing membrane.
KEE membrane is typically manufactured in a single-ply format, which means it is applied as a single layer rather than multiple layers.
This can make it easier and faster to install than other roofing materials, and it also reduces the risk of leaks or other problems that can occur when multiple layers are used.
What are the pros and cons of a KEE roof?
Pros
- Durability: KEE roofing is highly durable and can last up to 30 years or more with proper maintenance.
- Increased fire resistance: KEE roofing is a thermoplastic material that is naturally fire-resistant. It has a high ignition point and does not easily catch fire or spread flames.
- Increased reflectivity: KEE roofing can help reduce the amount of heat that enters a building by reflecting sunlight away from the roof’s surface. This can help reduce the amount of energy needed to cool the building, leading to lower energy costs and a more comfortable indoor environment. KEE roofing can also help mitigate the urban heat island effect in cities by reducing the amount of heat absorbed and radiated by buildings.
- Chemical resistance: KEE roofing is resistant to a wide range of chemicals, making it ideal for use in industrial settings.
- UV resistance: KEE roofing is highly resistant to UV radiation, which can cause damage to other roofing materials over time.
- Flexibility: KEE roofing is highly flexible and can accommodate thermal expansion and contraction without cracking or splitting.
- Energy efficiency: KEE roofing can help reduce energy costs by reflecting heat from the sun, reducing the amount of heat that enters the building.
Cons
- Cost: KEE roofing can be more expensive than other types of roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles or metal roofing.
- Installation: KEE roofing requires specialized installation techniques and equipment, which can add to the cost of installation.
- Maintenance: KEE roofing requires regular maintenance to ensure its long lifespan, including periodic cleaning and inspections.
- Limited color options: KEE roofing is typically only available in white or light-colored options, which may not be suitable for all building designs or aesthetic preferences.
How to choose between a KEE roof and other types of roofing materials?
- Assess your roofing needs and goals: Consider the project’s scope, timeline, budget, and desired performance criteria, such as durability, energy efficiency, and environmental sustainability.
- Research available roofing options: Investigate different roofing materials, such as TPO, PVC, EPDM, asphalt, and metal, and compare their features, pros, and cons.
- Evaluate material performance: Look for reliable sources of information, such as industry reports, product data sheets, and warranty information, to assess the performance characteristics of each material, such as weatherability, impact resistance, fire rating, and chemical resistance.
- Consider installation requirements: Evaluate the installation process and requirements of each material, such as the need for specialized equipment, skills, or permits, as well as the potential disruption to building occupants or nearby activities.
- Estimate life cycle costs: Determine the upfront and long-term costs of each roofing option, including the initial purchase price, maintenance and repair expenses, energy savings, and replacement costs.
- Choose the best option: Based on the above factors, select the most suitable roofing material that meets your project goals and requirements, while balancing cost, performance, and aesthetic considerations.
- Consult with experts: Seek advice from roofing contractors, consultants, or manufacturers to help you make an informed decision and ensure that the installation meets the relevant building codes, industry standards, and warranty requirements.
How do I install a KEE roofing membrane?
Smooth surface and proper inspection
The application of KEE roofing requires a smooth and suitable surface for proper installation of the roof insulation membrane and specified components.
The roofing contractor is responsible for inspecting the deck surface and notifying the general contractor and architect/owner of any defects that require correction before roof application.
Retrofits require the removal of loose aggregate, and a structural analysis and thermal scan should be performed before retrofitting.
The surfaces should be examined for defects that would prevent the execution and quality application of the membrane roofing, and all asphalt, rust, paint, and dirt should be removed at flashing areas and termination points.
A vapor retarder is required if the existing roof is coal tar pitch or has been repaired with cold tar pitch. The application should not proceed until all defects and preparation work have been corrected and completed.
Proper wood nailer installation for KEE roofing
Proper installation of wood nailers is essential for KEE roofing. ACQ treated lumber or equivalent must be used and conform to all Federal standards and regulations.
Hot-dip galvanized or stainless steel fasteners must be used, and electro-galvanized screws or nails should not be used.
Wood nailers should be installed at all perimeters and penetrations at the same height as the insulation layer. The surface under wood nailers should be free of all gravel and as even as possible.
If wood nailers are installed directly on the substrate, the substrate should be carefully examined to confirm that the entire area provides a suitable fastening surface, and any defects should be repaired by the appropriate trade prior to installation.
Fastener specification should be followed for approved fasteners and spacing.
Insulation installation guidelines for KEE Roofing
This set of guidelines explains the proper way to install insulation for KEE roofing. The insulation must be mechanically fastened or adhered in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations .
Insulation boards must be tightly butted with staggered joints, and accurately cut to fit around penetrations. Only as much insulation as can be covered in a day should be installed, and all unused insulation must be covered at the end of each workday to avoid moisture penetration.
Tapered edge strips must be used to drain sumps, and if the insulation layer is 1 and 1/2 inches or less, the taper should be 12 inches from the drain bowl, and if the insulation thickness exceeds 1 and 1/2 inch, it should be 18 inches. Two fasteners per board should be used to mechanically fasten all tapers.
Mechanically attached systems for KEE Roofing
Stress plates and fasteners must meet specific requirements and be placed correctly on the membrane, with recommended plastic, locking stress plates used for insulation.
The system must be installed per Tremco Inc.’s recommendations or Factory Mutual/3rd party testing lab requirements, and approved fasteners and other requirements must be consulted in the project specifications.
The installation process involves attaching the underlying sheet to the structural deck with fasteners and membrane plates spaced at 6 inches on center, overlapping perimeter and field sheets by minimum amounts, and installing a minimum of two perimeter sheets parallel to all exterior roof perimeters.
Flawless roofing: Tips for applying fully adhered KEE Roofing systems
Surfaces that will receive the bonding adhesive must be free from any contaminants.
The roof membrane system must be placed in such a way that water flows over or along the membrane laps, without backwater seams.
The bonding adhesive must be mixed thoroughly before use.
When using fleece-back membrane, apply bonding adhesive to the substrate in full coverage and roll the membrane into place.
Do not allow the bonding adhesive to fully dry before rolling the membrane into it, and to use a 75# membrane roller to remove wrinkles and ensure positive contact with the substrate.
Lastly, it is advisable to minimize foot traffic on freshly applied fleece-back membrane until the adhesive is fully cured, which can vary depending on ambient conditions.
Are there any special considerations when using KEE roofing?
- Surface preparation: The surface to which the KEE roofing is being applied should be clean, dry, and free from oil, grease, or other contaminants. Any defects that would prevent the execution and quality application of the membrane roofing should be corrected before application.
- Vapor retarder: If the existing roof is coal tar pitch or has been repaired with cold tar pitch, a vapor retarder is required before application.
- Fastening and installation: The KEE roofing system can be mechanically attached or fully adhered, and each method has its own specific requirements for fastening and installation. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and specifications for proper installation.
- Weather conditions: The weather conditions during installation can affect the performance of the KEE roofing system. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for installation in various weather conditions.
- Maintenance: Regular maintenance is necessary to ensure the longevity and performance of the KEE roofing system. This may include inspections, repairs, and cleaning as needed.
How durable is KEE roofing?
KEE roofing systems can last for up to 30 years or more with proper installation and maintenance.
Also, KEE roofs have been tested and approved for resistance to hail and wind uplift, making them a popular choice for regions prone to severe weather conditions.
In terms of its physical properties, KEE roofing has high tensile strength, tear resistance, and puncture resistance, making it a reliable and long-lasting roofing material.
What is the life expectancy of a KEE roofing membrane?
A high-quality KEE roofing membrane that is properly installed and maintained can have a life expectancy of up to 30 years or more.
Some manufacturers also offer warranties for their KEE roofing membranes for up to 20 or 30 years, which can give building owners additional peace of mind.
What types of roofs can a KEE roofing membrane be used on?
A KEE roofing membrane can be used on a variety of roof types, including flat, low-slope, and steep-slope roofs. It can be used for both new construction and reroofing projects, and can be installed over a range of substrates, including concrete, metal, wood, and existing roofs.
KEE roofing membranes are also compatible with a range of insulation types and can be used in both mechanically attached and fully adhered systems.
How does KEE roofing compare to other roofing membranes?
KEE roofing membranes can be used on various types of commercial roofs, including flat roofs, low-slope roofs, and metal roofs.
They are suitable for use on roofs of commercial buildings, such as warehouses, factories, retail stores, and office buildings.
KEE roofing systems can also be used on specialized commercial roofs, such as those with unique shapes, such as domes or arched roofs, as well as roofs that require special consideration due to their location, such as roofs in high-wind or coastal areas.
What’s the alternative to KEE roofing?
Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) roofing
This is a popular alternative to KEE roofing for low-slope commercial and residential roofs. EPDM is a synthetic rubber roofing material that is highly resistant to UV rays and weathering.
Thermoplastic Olefin (TPO) roofing
TPO is a popular alternative to KEE roofing for commercial and industrial roofs. It is made of a single-ply membrane that is highly resistant to UV rays, ozone, and chemical exposure.
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) roofing
PVC is a popular alternative to KEE roofing for commercial and industrial roofs. It is made of a single-ply membrane that is highly resistant to UV rays, ozone, and chemical exposure.
Built-up roofing (BUR)
BUR is an alternative to KEE roofing that involves layering multiple plies of roofing felt and bitumen to create a watertight membrane. BUR is a popular choice for low-slope roofs.
Metal roofing
Metal roofs are a popular alternative to KEE roofing for both commercial and residential buildings. Metal roofs are durable, long-lasting, and highly resistant to weathering and corrosion. They are also energy-efficient and can help reduce cooling costs in warmer climates.
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