Four Steps to an Impeccable Condo Roof

The Ramona Villas condominiums in Palm Springs, California, is a secure, 104-unit project located in the heart of the historic and popular Warm Sands neighborhood. The community features a pool, spa, clubhouse with a gym and place to entertain, and a tennis court. This popular condo property is just a short walk or bike ride to the center of the Palm Springs Village, with its fabulous array of restaurants, shops, and galleries, and major shopping areas.

At Ramona Villas, RB Roofing, using proven Polyglass USA products, installed a new high-solid roof coating system that provides superior durability and significantly enhances the roof’s water resistance. This advanced solution ensures a longer-lasting roof, reducing maintenance needs and contributing to greater sustainability. The enhanced performance of the new roofing system marks a significant improvement over previous solutions that were used for the condo roof.

The project was not without challenges, but by partnering, RB Roofing and Polyglass were able to solve the most significant issue: the lack of cleanliness. Polyglass’s PolyClean product delivered exceptional results, ensuring a spotless and well-prepared surface that set the rest of the reroofing project up for success. 

Here’s how the magic happened:

  • The roof deck of the existing roofing system was power washed and then cleaned with PolyClean™ concentrate, and wet and damaged areas were removed and replaced.
  • Repairs to the old roof were made using PolyBrite® 72 Elastomeric Flashing Compound, which was uniformly applied at 1⁄8″ (125 mils) up to 1⁄4″ (250 mils) thick, using a brush, trowel, putty knife, or bulk sealant gun (Albion® DL-45-01 or equivalent).
  • For the top coat, PolyBrite® 71-HS bleed-blocking premium grade elastomeric roof coating was applied at a rate of 24 wet mils (1.5 gallons per 100 square feet maximum) per coat.
  • And for the roof details, PolyBrite® 73 Elastomeric Flashing Compound was applied at 1⁄8″ (125 mils) up to 1⁄4″ (250 mils) in a thick uniform application, using a brush, trowel, putty knife, or bulk sealant gun (Albion® DL-45-01 or equivalent).

The outcome: A roof that can withstand any weather, has a long life, and meets the utmost safety requirements for the building owner and residents.  

Overall, RB Roofing’s Ryan Bond says the Polyglass system stands out due to its superior warranty, not to mention the exceptional customer service that embodies Polyglass USA’s commitment to excellence. “More importantly, Polyglass products are uniquely engineered to withstand harsh environmental elements, providing unparalleled durability and reliability that surpasses competitor systems,” Bond said.

“At RB Roofing LLC, our commitment to excellence is unwavering, and our partnership with Polyglass allows us to uphold the highest standards in the industry,” Bond added. “The Polyglass USA team played a crucial role in streamlining the procurement process, ensuring timely delivery, and maintaining high standards for all received products. Their efficiency and commitment significantly contributed to the success of our project. We deeply appreciate Polyglass’s dedication to quality and innovation, which aligns perfectly with our mission to deliver superior roofing solutions.”

By the Numbers

Location

1111 E. Ramon Rd.
Palm Springs, California

Size

170,000 square feet


Product Spotlight

PolyBrite® 71-HS

PolyBrite® 71-HS represents a top-tier, high solids water-based elastomeric coating. Developed with a proprietary blend of 100% acrylic resins, it cures into a seamless roof membrane when applied. This innovative formulation aims to prolong the lifespan of roofing systems, reduce overall life cycle expenses, and deliver exceptional resistance against bleed-through. When utilized in white, PolyBrite® 71-HS boasts high reflectivity, effectively cooling the roof surface and safeguarding it against UV rays and various weather conditions.

PolyBrite® 73

A premium-grade white elastomeric mastic with StretchSpan Technology™ (SST), making the product extremely pliable. Cures to form a seamless flexible, waterproof membrane that will expand and contract with the movement of the roof surface. Designed for use in various flashing and detail conditions when applying Polyglass’ elastomeric roof coating systems, PolyBrite® 73 delivers superior adhesion, flexibility, high tensile strength, and strong resistance to UV degradation.

PolyBrite® 72

A premium-grade white water-based elastomeric mastic that cures to form a seamless membrane when applied to an acceptable substrate. Designed for use at flashing and detail conditions when installing Polyglass’ elastomeric roof coatings. PolyBrite® 72 provides outstanding adhesion, flexibility, and strong resistance to UV degradation.

PolyClean™

A roof cleaner that easily cleans dirt, grease, oil, and other foreign contamination with little or no agitation. PolyClean™ helps clean substrates prior to repairing and/or applying elastomeric coatings.

A Safe, Reliable Option for Luxury Oceanside Condos

The Bay Princess condominiums in Ocean City, Maryland, attract vacationers who appreciate luxury accommodations with pool and bay views just a short walk from the beach. But like all beachside buildings, the site can take a beating from ocean and bay storms, making a reliable, waterproof roof critical for safe and efficient access for guests as well as maintenance and service tasks.

So, when The FA Taylor Company was hired to replace the roof at Bay Princess and found a built-up gravel application with minimal insulation, the team knew it needed a trusted partner that could deliver high-quality products to upgrade the roof’s thermal resistance ability (R-value), its overall quality, and its resistance to water and fire.

The solution: A collaboration with Polyglass USA, a leading manufacturer of modified bitumen roofing and waterproofing membranes and roof coatings for low- and steep-slope applications.

At Polyglass, we provide a diverse selection of SBS base/interply and cap sheet options, allowing you to design multi-ply SBS roofing systems tailored to any project requirements. By utilizing two or more layers of SBS membranes, the finished Polyglass roof assembly, when combined with insulation and other roofing components, forms a fully integrated roofing system.

For over 85 years, The FA Taylor Company has been the go-to provider of top-quality commercial roofing services for the design community, general contractors, and owners involved in new construction projects throughout Maryland’s Delmarva Peninsula. A comprehensive commercial roofing and sheet metal contracting firm, The FA Taylor Company offers a broad range of services, including roof replacements, repairs, new construction, and maintenance.

What sets The FA Taylor Company apart in the roofing industry is its unwavering dedication to quality craftsmanship, meticulous attention to detail, and laser focus on customer satisfaction. Throughout every project, they prioritize transparency, communication, and integrity, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish.

The FA Taylor Company’s Matthew Taylor knew that Polyglass USA’s self-adhered products would be a perfect fit for the Bay Princess project because the products help the team complete work promptly – a critical issue when working in an area where storms from the bay or ocean can roll in at any time. And Polyglass Elastoflex SA V Polar Base® sheet and Polyglass Elastoflex SA P Polar Cap® sheet allowed the FA Taylor team to install more square feet each day and be confident in the system’s ability to remain watertight in low-temperature application settings.

With all of these parameters in place, the FA Taylor team:

  • Installed a concrete roof deck.
  • Added Polyglass PG 100 primer to promote adhesion of the self-adhesive membrane.
  • Applied the PolyFlex base sheet, a modified bitumen roofing membrane reinforced with a nonwoven polyester mat, to provide flexibility, dimensional stability, and tear and puncture resistance.
  • Applied a layer of 4-inch ISO set it Type IV Hot Asphalt.
  • Applied one-quarter inch per foot tapered insulation set up Hot Asphalt.
  • Applied one-half inch of Dens Deck Prime.
  • Added two layers of Polyglass Elastoflex SA V Polar Base, an elastomeric base ply low-slope roofing membrane.
  • And applied one layer of Polyglass SA Polar Cap, a self-adhered, Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene (SBS) granulated cap sheet for low-slope roofing.

With the roof renovation nearly complete, all vent pipes and equipment stands were then flashed with PolyFlash 1C, a one-component, moisture-cure silane-modified polyurethane white flashing compound, and walk pads were installed around the service sides of all HVAC units.

This total solution has improved the building’s energy efficiency and helped reduce utility costs. Plus, the self-adhered membranes create a strong, uniform bond with the substrate due to their proprietary self-adhesive compound, ensuring long-lasting performance and durability. The mechanically fastened installation method was also used for some of the roofing products.

The pros at The FA Taylor Company say the Bay Princess project is an example of roofing precision and excellence that featured highly efficient installation and minimal downtime for the property manager and condo users. Plus, the project comes with The FA Taylor Company’s comprehensive warranty, ensuring customer satisfaction. The decision-making process for replacing the new roof was carefully considered to ensure long-term benefits.

The client, Connor Braniff of Braniff Property Management was thrilled with the outcome. “I’ve been working with Matt Taylor of The FA Taylor Company for years and have always been impressed with their workmanship and the quality of the Polyglass products,” Braniff said.

The SBS modified bitumen roofing products used in the project provided excellent performance. The advantages of SBS-modified bitumen roofing for low-slope roofs include enhanced flexibility and durability.

By the Numbers

Location

110 81st Street
Ocean City, Maryland

Size

33,000 square feet

Product Spotlight

PG 100

PG 100 is a versatile penetrating asphalt primer designed to enhance adhesion before the application of hot-mopped, cold-applied, or self-adhesive membrane systems, as well as roof cements, mastics, and asphalt-based adhesives.

It is ideal for promoting superior adhesion of roofing materials and can also be used as a protective surface for metal, masonry, stucco, parapet walls, curbs, and base flashings. Additionally, PG 100 serves as a damp-proofing compound for below-grade walls and acts as a protective coating on the inside of planter boxes.

PolyFlex

Polyflex is an Atactic Polypropylene (APP) modified bitumen roofing membrane, reinforced with a high-quality non-woven polyester mat that offers flexibility, dimensional stability, and exceptional resistance to tearing and punctures. Its premium APP compound and robust construction ensure long-lasting weather resistance. Polyflex is suitable for use as a base, interply, or cap sheet in multilayer low-slope roofing systems.

The top surface features a smooth sand finish, while the bottom is equipped with a factory-applied burn-off film for heat welding applications.

Successive layers in the system can be heat welded using an additional ply of Polyflex or Polyflex G cap sheets.

Elastoflex SA V Polar Base

A self-adhered, elastomeric base ply low-slope roofing membrane designed for cold-weather applications. Manufactured using patented ADESO® Dual-Compound Self-Adhered Technology, whereby a “true” Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene (SBS) modified asphalt compound is applied on the top layer and a self-adhesive compound is applied on the bottom layer. Built with a high-performance reinforced fiberglass mat to ensure excellent dimensional stability.

Elastoflex SA P Polar Cap

A self-adhered, Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene (SBS) granulated cap sheet for use in low-slope roofing in low-temperature conditions. Manufactured using Polyglass’ patented ADESO® Dual-Compound Self-Adhered Technology that allows for a “true” elastomeric compound to be applied to the top of the membrane and a proprietary “low-temp”, self-adhesive SBS compound to be applied to the bottom. Constructed with a high-quality, non-woven polyester reinforcement that provides flexibility and dimensional stability, and tear and puncture resistance.

PolyFlash 1C

A one-component, moisture-cure silane-modified polyurethane white flashing compound designed for sealing roofing and waterproofing details, including walls, curbs, vents, roof drains, pitch pans, and unusually shaped penetrations.

Ensuring Schools and Their Students Are Safe and Protected with Self-Adhered Roof Membrane

HRGM Corporation is an award-winning commercial construction firm with a 40-year history of excellence in commercial roofing, waterproofing, and building envelope construction for complex projects. Renowned for its expertise in public school buildings, HRGM selected a range of Polyglass USA products to address the challenging roofing project at Glenridge Middle School in Hyattsville, Maryland, ensuring top-notch safety and durability.

Glenridge Middle School, located at 5211 Flintridge Drive and covering an expansive 85,000 square feet, prioritizes the safety, security, and well-being of its students and staff. The integrity of the school’s infrastructure, notably its roofing system, is fundamental to creating a supportive learning environment. A strong and carefully maintained roof serves a pivotal role in safeguarding the school against natural elements and potential hazards, ensuring ongoing protection for everyone inside.

HRGM’s project at Glenridge Middle School was a significant undertaking. The scope of work included attaching R30 insulation to a metal roof deck, using ¼” DensDeck adhered to the insulation. Following this, Polyglass USA’s Elastoflex SA V Plus FR, a self-adhered elastomeric base ply with fire retardant, was applied as the base layer. The cap sheet consisted of Polyfresko G SA FR, a self-adhered Atactic Polypropylene (APP) granulated layer.

Additionally, Elastoflex SA V flashing strips and Polyflash 1C flashing compound were used to create drain target patches, flash walls in constrained areas, and manage transitions where walls exceeded 24 inches in height.

This combination was meticulously chosen to meet the stringent requirements of the project. By selecting these specific Polyglass products, HRGM aimed to deliver a robust, long-lasting roofing solution that would withstand the elements and provide reliable protection for the school’s infrastructure.

This selection not only demonstrated their commitment to quality and safety in construction but also underscored their dedication to ensuring the longevity and durability of the roofing system. The use of self-adhered membranes was also cost-effective, reducing initial labor costs and long-term repair needs. Additionally, the selected materials contributed to energy efficiency, enhancing sustainability and performance.

John Maviglia from HRGM praised the collaboration with Polyglass, highlighting the efficiency of the self-adhered system. “The self-adhered system made installation fast, which helped with the fast-paced nature of this project and meeting schedules,” he said.

HRGM’s choice of Polyglass products was strategic, aiming to deliver a roofing solution that not only met the immediate needs of Glenridge Middle School but also provided long-term benefits. The variety of roofing materials used ensured durability, fire resistance, and weatherproofing, which are essential for the protection of the building and its occupants.

The ease and efficiency of the installation process were notable, with the self-adhered system simplifying the application.

HRGM’s extensive experience in roofing projects ensured that the scope and benefits of the project were well-addressed. Polyglass provided all the roofing materials necessary for the project, offering a comprehensive selection to meet the school’s needs.

Subhead: By the Numbers

Location:

Glenridge Middle School
5211 Flintridge Drive
Hyattsville, Maryland

 Size:

85,000 square feet

Subhead: Product Spotlight

Elastoflex SA V Plus FR

A self-adhered elastomeric base ply membrane with fire-retardant additives, designed specifically for use in low-slope roofing applications to enhance safety and durability. The adhesive layer simplifies installation by eliminating the need for hazardous adhesives and messy liquid applications. Additionally, the release liner film can be easily peeled off, allowing users to roll out the membrane efficiently, which enhances productivity and safety during installation.

Polyfresko G SA FR

Polyfresko G SA FR is a self-adhered Atactic Polypropylene (APP) granulated cap sheet enhanced with fire retardant additives, designed for low-slope roofing. Manufactured using Polyglass’ patented ADESO® Dual-Compound Self-Adhered Technology, it features a “true” plastomeric compound on the top and an aggressive, proprietary self-adhesive compound on the bottom. This cap sheet is built with high-quality non-woven polyester reinforcement, ensuring flexibility, dimensional stability, and excellent resistance to tears and punctures.

Incorporating patented CURE Technology®, Polyfresko G SA FR boasts a highly reflective granule surface that meets or exceeds most cool roofing standards. This technology utilizes an innovative thin film for exceptional granule retention, minimal staining, scuff resistance, and UV stabilization, ensuring long-term durability and performance.

Elastoflex SA V

Elastoflex® SA V Flashing Strips are pre-cut rolls of the Elastoflex SA V membrane, incorporating patented ADESO® Dual-Compound Technology. The top layer consists of a Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene (SBS) modified asphalt compound, while the bottom layer features a strong self-adhesive compound. These flashing strips are made with a high-performance reinforced fiberglass mat, providing excellent dimensional stability. The top surface is coated with a polyolefin film, and the bottom surface is protected by a split release film covering the adhesive.

Polyflash 1C Membrane

A one-component, moisture-cure, silane-modified polyurethane, white flashing compound. It’s designed for sealing roofing and waterproofing details, including walls, curbs, vents, roof drains, pitch pans, and unusually shaped penetrations, ensuring comprehensive protection to protect roofs against elements such as hail, wind, and algae discoloration.

Download Project PDF

Ensuring Resort-Style Living Remains Luxurious and Problem-Free

The Golf Lake Condominiums at East Bay, located near Tampa, Florida, provide luxury resort-style living with their relaxing patios, pond and golf course views, and an array of amenities including a pool and clubhouse. The proximity to beautiful nearby beaches further enhances the appeal of this residential haven. However, maintaining such a high standard of living requires regular upgrades. So, when it was time for a new roof on one of the condo buildings, Strategic Roofing, known for their expertise in residential and commercial roofing solutions, connected to Polyglass USA.

The roofing contractor had previously experienced significant success using Polyglass USA’s underlayment systems on various projects. The low-slope roof at Golf Lake Condos offered an ideal opportunity to utilize the advanced Polyglass SBS modified bitumen roofing system, renowned for its exceptional durability, reliability, and performance.

The roofing process was meticulously carried out, involving the application of a self-adhered base sheet followed by the torch application of a Polyglass USA cap sheet. Throughout this detailed process, Polyglass provided invaluable guidance on penetration details, ensuring the finished roof was not only watertight but also aesthetically pleasing and highly durable. Hiring qualified contractors is crucial to avoid costly repairs that can arise from roofing errors.

Scott Coles of Strategic Roofing highlighted the seamless collaboration, stating, “Polyglass was so easy to work with. Both Steve Rush, Technical Service Representative, and Arty Vazquez, District Sales Manager, were always available for problem-solving. Steve worked around our schedule to make the proper on-site inspections as we needed them.”

This partnership exemplified the synergy between respected firms and top-quality products, resulting in durable, reliable roofs that protect properties and ensure satisfaction for years to come.

By the Numbers

Location:

Golf Lake Condominiums at East Bay
960 Starkey Road, Building 4
Largo, Florida

Size:

15,000 square feet

Product Spotlight

Elastoflex SA V Plus SBS Modified Bitumen Membrane

A robust, self-adhered elastomeric base ply low-slope roofing product manufactured with ADESO® dual-compound self-adhered technology, whereby a “true” Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene (SBS) modified asphalt compound is applied on the top layer and an aggressive self-adhesive compound is applied on the bottom layer. This product’s design accommodates different roof pitches, ensuring optimal performance regardless of the slope. Elastoflex SA V Plus is built with a high-quality reinforced fiberglass mat to ensure superior strength and excellent dimensional stability, providing a robust membrane that resists natural forces and other challenging rooftop factors.

Polyflex G for Low Slope Roofing Systems

An APP (plastomeric) granulated cap sheet tailored for low-slope roofing, specifically designed for heat-welded applications. Polyflex G is also compatible with metal roofing systems, offering a durable and aesthetically appealing solution that can withstand extreme weather conditions. It incorporates superior non-woven polyester reinforcement, providing excellent flexibility, dimensional stability, and exceptional tear and puncture resistance. This ensures that the roofing system can withstand harsh environmental conditions and severe mechanical stresses, maintaining its integrity and performance over time.

PG 500 for Low Slope Applications

A high-quality formulation suitable for use as a cold-applied bonding agent for SBS roofing systems, as well as various other membrane systems. It is also highly effective for sealing lap seams and perimeter edges of SBS modified bitumen membranes, providing a durable and weather-tight seal. It features a heavy “trowel-grade” consistency, making it ideal for flashing details, attachment of membrane to steep slopes and parapet walls, and a variety of waterproofing repairs. PG 500’s versatility, durability, reliability, and effectiveness make it an essential component in creating and maintaining durable roofing systems.

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Rehabilitating a Crown Jewel in Fort Worth

Bass Performance Hall in Forth Worth, Texas, is the crown jewel of a city that’s home to the third largest cultural district in the U.S. It’s also an important symbol in one of the most successful downtown revitalization efforts in the country.

Which is why when it came to putting a new roof on this high-profile project, every aspect had to be just so. Enter Zenith Roofing & Waterproofing and Polyglass USA – partners in rehabilitating this iconic live event venue.

With over 40 years of experience and a history of giving back to the community, Zenith brought its mantra of “Reputable, Relational, Restorative” to the project. And Polyglass USA brought its proven Polystick MTS PLUS product – along with impeccable service from representative Dylan Homa.

Overcoming Challenges to Bring Back the Shine

Due to the location of the hall and the fact that scheduled performances were taking place, the Zenith team had to get creative when it came to removing construction materials. The venue could not be fully shut down, nor could the surrounding streets.

With a little ingenuity, the team used a hoist to lower materials into a construction dumpster and haul it away immediately.

The fact that there was only a single route in and out of the building, and security required personnel to work in pairs, every move had to be strategically planned to make the most of the team’s time and efforts.

Of course the hall’s high-profile nature and its valued guests meant that the new roof had to be visually appealing and water tight.

Outstanding Referral and Award-Winning Work

In the end, the project was a resounding success, leading to this comment from Zenith’s Blaine Sibby: “Dylan Homa is a true asset to the Zenith team, and I am glad that he is our Polyglass representative. The Polyglass is tremendous on this type of job.”

And the completed project earned a 2023 Golden Hammer award from the North Texas Roofing Contractors Association (NTRCA).

Subhead: By the Numbers

Location:
Bass Performance Hall
525 Commerce St.
Fort Worth, Texas

Size:
11,500 square feet

Challenges:

  • Work had to take place around the event schedule at the hall, and without shutting down streets near the site.
  • Materials and trash had to be placed in a construction dumpster (and removed immediately) using a hoist atop the massive hall.
  • There was a singular route for the construction team to enter and exit the building.
  • Personnel movement was restricted due to security rules, requiring extensive planning for material and tool retrieval.

Subhead: Product Spotlight

Polystick MTS PLUS

Polystick MTS PLUS is a self-adhered high-temp waterproofing underlayment for metal roof coverings and various other applications. Leveraging ADESO® dual-compound self-adhered technology, Polystick MTS PLUS features a polymer modified bitumen upper compound and a proprietary self-adhesive SBS (elastomeric) compound on the bottom. A split release film that protects the self adhesive compound allows for easy application.

Polystick MTS PLUS features a cavitated anti-skid top film surface that can be exposed for up to 180 days. With a temperature resistance of up to 265°F, Polystick MTS PLUS is ideally suited for high temperature roof covering systems such as steel, aluminum or copper panels.

Download Project PDF

You’ve Got Specifications, We’ve Got Solutions!

Colonnade at Polo Park, a high-end retail and restaurant shopping center in Midland, Texas, was in need of a new roof – and that roof needed to meet some critical specifications, according to the contractor on the project. It must make the building’s flat roof watertight. The products used must include the same durability and robust waterproofing benefits as traditional torch-applied roofing solutions, without the need for a naked flame. The installation had to be done with minimal disruption to the shopping center’s tenants and customers. And the completed roof must be warrantied for 20 years.

Enter Champion Contractors & Services who saved the day, with help from Polyglass USA products.

Support That Stands Apart From the Competition 

After being contacted by Champion Contractors & Services and hearing about the goals of the project, Polyglass USA representatives hosted a demo of its self-adhered products for the Champion crew. The presentation covered all the details of installing a two-ply, self-adhered roofing solution at the shopping center.

Champion agreed that this approach would meet the building owner’s goals of installing a modern granulated built-up roof (BUR) with self-adhered products that would protect against water infiltration, UV radiation and extreme weather conditions.

Product selections were made and work began!

Today, Champion says the Polyglass self-adhered roofing membrane is showing exceptional durability and weather resistance – and is in fact exceeding expectations. Plus, the ease of installation and the product’s ability to conform with various roof shapes and contours made the job highly efficient, saving time and labor costs.

Here’s what Champion had to say about their decision to choose Polyglass USA: “The technical support and expertise offered by the Polyglass team were invaluable throughout the project. Their knowledge of roofing systems and willingness to provide guidance and assistance ensured a smooth installation process and a high-quality end result.”

Mission accomplished!

Location:

Colonnade at Polo Park

4601 N.Garfield St.

Midland, Texas

Size:

1,350 squares

165 squares for walls

Challenges: 

  • Installation without major disruptions to shopping center tenants and customers.
  • Roofing solution had to waterproof a flat roof that had assorted shapes and contours.
  • Roof has a high level of roof traffic.

Client requested use of “no flame” roofing products.