If you’re looking for a resistant, leak-free, and long-lasting roofing system for your home or other building, FiberTite roofing is a perfect choice.
FiberTite roofing is a roofing system recognized for its durability, longevity, and efficiency.
To get started on installing a roofing membrane, contact your local roofing pros for a FREE ESTIMATES!
What Type Of Roof Is FiberTite?
FiberTite roofing is a single-ply roofing system and the only single-ply roofing membrane that fulfills the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) D6754 Standard.
The quality of the product shows through projects that have lasted for more than 30 years.
It is made of a thermoplastic olefin (TPO) roofing membrane and the highest amount of ELVALOY™ Ketone Ethylene Ester (KEE). This formula gives FiberTite’s fabric elasticity, toughness, and less weight than other roofing options.
FiberTite is designed to endure inclement weather, intense heat, harsh chemicals, punctures, water infiltration, and UV radiation.
By increasing its durability and lifespan in this way, the product doesn’t require frequent replacements. This way, FiberTite roofing is more environmentally friendly than its competitors and allows clients to meet their sustainability goals.
Additionally, with an 83 score on solar reflectivity (SR) and an 85 score on infrared emittance (IE), FiberTite roofing systems are among the best-scored roofing systems in the industry, according to the Cool Roof Rating Council (CRRC).
FiberTite also satisfies the criteria of the California Title 24 energy efficiency standard.
Since using cool roofs lowers energy consumption and saves approximately 14 cents per square foot each year, this significantly lowers the cost of a roof over its lifespan.
Pro Tip: Since multiple membranes can be welded into a seamless roofing system, they are perfect for large and complex roofs. They are frequently used in warehouses, hospitals, schools, and other commercial and industrial applications.
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FiberTite Roofing Systems
There are several FiberTite roofing systems.
Hybrid Multi-Ply Roofing System
A hybrid multi-ply roofing system combines an SBS-modified bitumen composite and FiberTite KEE membrane.
It is thicker and more puncture-resistant.
Unlike other modified bitumen roofs, the FiberTite Hybrid roof is easy to maintain and resistant to UV rays, chemicals, and ponding water.
The FiberTite Hybrid system also reflects sunlight well and prevents energy losses.
It can be attached with a base sheet, torch or hot asphalt, cap sheet, or cold adhesive. It can also be applied to a concrete deck.
Green Roof
FiberTite offers many products that are sustainable and are environmentally-friendly, economical, and esthetic.
Their water retention ability prevents sewerage overflow and protects the membrane from rain, hail, etc.
FiberTite rooftop gardens also make the air cleaner, save energy, lower the noise volume, and provide additional space for the building’s residents.
They are a great way to fight pollution, lower energy costs, and make the world better for future generations.
Simulated Metal Roofing System
As a replacement for the metal roof prone to leaking, FiberTite offers ribbed roofing panels that mimic the look of metal but offer greater protection.
Its four layers and Dow ELVALOY™ Ketone Ethylene Ester KEE-based formula make the FiberTite simulated metal roof flexible and resistant to weather elements, punctures and tears, and chemicals.
The formula also gives a strong adhesive coat that doesn’t require welding and prevents fracturing.
In addition to costing less than a regular metal roof, the FiberTite simulated metal roof allows more complex designs.
Mechanically Attached Roofing System
The FiberTite mechanically attached roofing system is an excellent choice for areas with high wind.
It consists of insulation fasteners and stress plates that are used instead of glue for securing the insulation boards to different types of roof decking.
Adhered Roofing System
In contrast, FiberTite adhered roofing systems require gluing the membrane to the decking.
How well the adhesive performs depends on how well the layers of membranes are attached to create a whole.
Unlike many other materials, the FiberTite fabric is designed to go well with the adhered roofing system.
Induction Welded Roofing System
The induction welded roofing system goes perfectly with FiberTite’s four-layer technology.
Without going through the membrane, this system creates a strong bond and uniform adhesion to the surface.
In addition, the process is faster and requires fewer fasteners.
Ballasted Roofing System
Apart from adhered and mechanically attached roofing systems, the FiberTite membrane can be secured using stone or paver ballast.
It uses natural materials like leaves and gravel and can be green roofing.
This process makes the membrane more UV and fire-resistant.
Moreover, this type of installation doesn’t pierce the membrane.
FiberTite Roofing Average Cost
The cost of the FiberTite roofing system installment will depend on the type of membrane, installment techniques, labor, installation time, maintenance, warranty, roof size, complexities, and location.
Due to so many factors that play a role in the project’s final cost, it can be challenging to set the exact price you might pay if you opt for the FiberTite roofing system.
Nevertheless, the average cost per square foot with installation ranges from $20 to $30.
For a typical 1,500-square-foot roof, the total price might fall between $30,000 and $45,000.
FiberTite Roofing Cost Breakdown
According to FiberTite, the whole roofing project costs approximately $5 per square foot.
The labor adds an additional $5 per square foot, and adding the membrane can double or even triple this cost.
However, a suitable membrane is necessary to protect the investment, and it’ll save you money in the long run.
| FiberTite Roofing | Cost Per Square Foot | Cost For 1,500 Square Feet |
|---|---|---|
| Without Membrane and Installation | $5 | $7,500 |
| Without Membrane But With Installation | $10 | $15,000 |
| With Membrane and Installation | $20-$30 | $30,000-$45,000 |
FiberTite Roofing Contractors
FiberTite roofing contractors are professionals who have been trained and certified by the FiberTite company to perform the installation of this type of roofing system.
They possess the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to properly handle the products, tools, and equipment provided by the company.
They are the best choice for a safe and efficient installment of the roofing system.
Choosing a reputable contractor with a proven record of successful FiberTite roofing installation in your area is essential. You can do so by going to their website and selecting your state and product.
FiberTite Roofing Colors
FiberTite offers several made-to-stock and made-to-order color options for their membranes.
- Off-White
- CR Gray
- White
- Slate Gray
- Thermal Tan
- Patina Gray
- Colonial Red
- Energy Gray
- Terra Cotta
Sometimes specific projects require colors other than what’s on offer.
Fortunately, FiberTite allows you to request a custom color match.
FiberTite Roofing Fire Rating
To keep your property safe, it’s essential to consider your chosen roofing system’s fire rating and check whether it has a UL Class A fire-resistance rating.
The fire rating of a roofing membrane is included in the whole roofing system, and generally, all membranes are prone to some fire damage regardless of the rating.
However, different materials react differently to fire, so it is still necessary to check how the fire resistance of the roofing system performs over time and under certain conditions.
TPO and EPDM have a low resistance to fire. They take longer to ignite but burn for a long time and drip balls of fire on the surface below.
Modified Bitumen is slightly better at resisting as it doesn’t burn as fast, but the dripping is still present, which might make the whole building go up in flames if the fire lands on more inflammable objects.
In contrast, FiberTite materials are faster at catching fire, but they don’t burn for long and self-extinguish after removing the fire source.
Did you know? The granules in the roofing system are what make roof membranes fire-resistant. Roofs with a lot of foot traffic, rain, and wind can make these granules prematurely loose and make your material more prone to catching on fire. For this reason, some materials lose fire resistance in only a few years.
FiberTite Roofing Installation
Installing a FiberTite roofing system is a complex process that requires a certain level of skill, knowledge, and experience.
To ensure that your roofing system is properly installed, it is best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the product and work with a licensed professional who has experience with this type of roofing system.
There are several general steps to follow when installing FiberTite roofing systems.
- Prepare sufficient material and place it at least 3 inches above the ground with a breathable tarp on top. Be careful not to damage the newly applied roofing or other existing construction.
- Inspect the roof deck and remove any debris, oils, and other substances that may hinder the adhesion process. If necessary, use a high-pressure water spray to clean the surface but make sure that it’s smooth and dry before you start the installation. Additionally, the substrate needs to be suitable for the installation of the desired product.
- Install roof insulation according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Leave less than a quarter-inch gap between the insulation boards. Make sure to secure the insulation boards to prevent them from moving during the installment. If you need multiple layers of insulation, make sure that the edges of the panels are not placed in the same line and offset them by at least 12 inches. Doing so will reduce thermal losses between the insulation.
- Place FiberTite-approved fastening plates.
- Roll out the FiberTite membrane horizontally across the roof and lay it straight and flat without any wrinkles or creases. Fasten it with a mechanical fastener and a stress plate. Overlap the edges of the membrane according to the manufacturer’s instructions (it usually has a control line along the edge).
- Since the welding will depend on the fiber type, do a test weld to find the suitable heat setting and speed of the welder. Take into account that weather and temperature might affect them. Use the proper heat-sealing technique according to the instructions to seal the seams.
- Install flashing around all curbs, pipes, vents, etc. They require additional membrane installation with suitable plates, fasteners, or an aluminum termination bar.
- The last step is to remove the scrap and excess materials and inspect the roof for any defects, leaks, or similar problems.
Pro Tip: Try not to torque the fastening plates and fasteners too lightly or too harshly since it can hinder the roofing system’s performance.
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FiberTite Roofing Warranty
Before agreeing to the installation of the FiberTite roofing system, it is essential to read the provided warranty and understand what each detail means.
Warranty doesn’t only mean the number of years covered, but also what damage it covers. The actual cost of the project sometimes lies in the warranty, and careless reading might lead to unexpected expenses that don’t fit the client’s budget.
FiberTite offers several types of warranties, each with more than 20 years of extension option.
- Seaman Corporation Commercial Membrane Warranty
- Standard Watertight Limited Warranty
- Standard Watertight Unlimited Warranty
- Roof System Assembly Limited Warranty
- Roof System Assembly Unlimited Warranty
Before issuing a warranty, a FiberTite employee will inspect the completed roofing installment.
The warranty will include maintenance instructions and a list of harmful substances that might damage the membrane.
FiberTite Roofing Reviews
Through a documented excellent performance history, FiberTite has built its reputation as a reliable roofing material. It still uses the same technology as 35 years ago and continues to prove its worth.
The reviews of FiberTite come from some of its long-time customers.
Bill Conley, the present founder of Conley Group, says, “It’s amazing to me that a 36 mil membrane that was installed in 1984 is still in service.”
Mike Hicks from Hicks Industrial Roofing: “Since 1981, I have yet to replace a single FiberTite roof because of membrane failure.” He claims, “With all things considered – thickness, installation costs, long-term maintenance – I really believe that this particular product represents the best value on the roofing market today.”
“The costs over the life of the roof are going to be extremely minimal due to its durability, strength, puncture resistance, chemical resistance,” says Neil Krock from Peach State Roofing.
“FiberTite’s longevity is proven. It’s been proven in this marketplace for better than 30 years. It has hundreds of roofs to demonstrate its performance, and it’s the fact that the material has been in service for those periods that demonstrate to us that it’s a good choice,” says Colin Murphy from Trinity ERD.
The buildings that still rely on FiberTite roofing are also proof of its longevity.
The roofing on Inn Maid Noodles building in Millersburg, Ohio, was installed the earliest in 1981 and is still in service 40 years after.
Who Owns FiberTite?
FiberTite is manufactured by Seaman Corporation.
Who Are FiberTite’s Competitors?
Even if you have settled for FiberTite as your roofing system based on recommendations and research, check all the available options and see how they compare.
There are many factors to consider, including your budget, the specific needs of your building, and the local climate.
Some of the FiberTite competitors are thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO), ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber, and polymer-modified bitumen roofing systems (Mod Bit).
FiberTite Roofing vs TPO
FiberTite and TPO are both single-ply roofing membranes that are used in commercial and industrial applications.
Still, they have some essential differences that might be the deciding factor for your roof.
TPO is a blend of thermoplastic materials and usually includes ethylene-propylene rubber and polypropylene.
On the other hand, FiberTite includes polyester fabric, making it more flexible and resistant to punctures and tears than TPO.
In addition, FiberTite is resistant to chemicals, oils, and fuels, which can lead to the deterioration of the TPO system.
FiberTite can also withstand winds up to 60 mph, while TPO excludes winds over 39 mph from their warranties.
TPO is also less fire resistant and requires additional cost for improvement, which can hinder its resistance to UV radiation.
FiberTite Roofing vs EPDM
EPDM is a synthetic rubber that has both elastic and viscous elements. Due to those components, it can return to its original size when stretched. That also makes it prone to shrinking over time.
While it is generally inexpensive, it can’t be entirely repaired when damaged, so EPDM might require replacements more often than FiberTite.
EPDM is also relatively thin and more susceptible to punctures and tears than FiberTite and doesn’t perform well with harsh chemicals.
One advantage is that EPDM is made of recycled materials, so it’s eco-friendly.
However, due to its durability, FiberTite also makes a good choice for environmentally-conscious people.
EPDM is designed for severe weather conditions and UV radiation, but it’s also among the materials which are easily flammable and have low fire resistance.
Fibertite Roofing vs Mod Bit
Mod Bit is a blend of asphalt and pellets or powders of atactic polypropylene (APP), styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS), styrene-ethylene-butadiene-styrene (SEBS), or styrene-ethylene-propylene-styrene (SEPS).
This blend is likely to break down and separate over time, reducing the material’s qualities and making it less resistant to damage.
Chemicals, greases, oils, and other contaminants can also damage the material.
While Mod Bit offers better puncture resistance than TPO because of its multi-ply reinforcement, heat, sun, UV rays, and much foot traffic can reduce its durability.
Similarly to TPO, it excludes winds over 39 mph from its warranties.
In contrast to FiberTite, Mod Bit is also challenging to install, maintain, or repair.
There is more room for error with Mod Bit’s installation, and poor adhesion can cause blisters and make it less resistant to wind.
Is FiberTite A PVC?
FiberTite is not a PVC.
FiberTite products are made of a different material.
Conclusion
Today, FiberTite makes the best choice for roofing systems.
It offers some features and benefits that cannot be found with other materials, such as chemical resistance and longer endurance against fire.
With testimonials from more than 30 years ago, FiberTite has proven itself as a reliable and well-performing roofing system that’s worth considering when installing one on your buildings.
For over 20 years Leo has run a successful roofing business in New England, specializing in metal roofing, as well as cool flat roofing technologies. Having replaced and installed hundreds of roofs in New England, Leo has first hand experience with pretty much every residential roofing material and roofing manufacturer available in the US.
I’m a contractor of 50 years. Installing DuroLast the last 22 years. Find myself interested in knowing more about FiberTite roofing systems and perhaps trying out your material.
Do you have a contractor info packet to share?