Fully Adhered vs. Mechanically Attached

When receiving a bid for a new commercial roofing system, you may hear your contractor talking about mechanically attached or fully adhered systems. What are they, and what do they mean?

The terms mechanically attached and fully adhered are not a type of roofing system, but are terms used to describe the way a system is attached to your roof. 

• Mechanically attached systems involve securing the membrane to the roof deck with mechanical fasteners such as screws or plates. This method provides enhanced strength and durability, making it suitable for areas with high wind uplift requirements. 

• In a fully adhered system, the membrane is bonded directly to the roof deck using adhesives, creating a strong seal. 

So which is better? The answer to this depends on many factors such as building design, climate conditions, and specific insurance requirements for your area.

Over our extensive 50 years of business, Monument’s team has witnessed unfortunate situations where contractors opted to cut costs by utilizing improper materials. The consequences of making this choice are extensive, and often leads to insurance refusing to provide coverage. The importance of using qualified contractors that have the knowledge and experience needed to properly meet your needs is vital to protecting your investment.

If your commercial roof is in need of replacement or repair, Monument’s team can help.