Roofing

A Fluid Solution: PMMA Roof Membranes

By Kirk Goodrum

July 09, 2025

Siplast PMMA Roof Membrane Install

Almost 175 years ago, the low-slope roofing industry began with the construction of roof membranes using a field-applied liquid component and a reinforcing fabric. Built-up roofs using coal tar or bitumen were the standard for well over a century; however, in the last 50 years, factory-produced membranes grew in popularity and also secured a place as a dominant method of roofing application. During recent years, fluid-applied materials, albeit without the use of a kettle, have been filling a need for difficult applications where prefabricated membranes are not the easiest solution.

Fluid-applied materials used as flashing solutions have led to the resurgence of the concept. Fluidapplied membranes improved the continuity from the roofing membrane to the vertical termination. The development of high performance materials to be used at these critical junctions is a major advancement for roofing manufacturers and applicators alike. Based on the reliable performance of the flashing materials, professionals are now beginning to use them for complete roof systems.

Modern fluid-applied membranes are one of the fastest growing sectors of the roofing market. Although they maintain the field-constructed concept of the past, that is where the similarities end. The liquid and reinforcement components that are utilized today are highly engineered. Whether it is the base polymers, the types of curing mechanisms, or the versatility in design, this is not your grandfather's roofing.

PMMA, in its liquid state, offers a key advantage: the capacity for chemical bonding between layers. This results in an exceptionally strong, monolithic connection in field applications. PMMA, because it is fluid-applied, provides a high-quality method for successful installations at complex flashing locations. PMMA is also durable, abrasion resistant, and UV-resistant. This characteristic renders them suitable for demanding commercial roofing projects and specialized waterproofing applications on balconies, plaza decks, and parking decks where pedestrian or vehicular traffic is a consideration.

Read the full paper at the link below.

A Fluid Solution: PMMA Roof Membranes

For more information about Siplast products, visit Siplast.com.

About the Author

As General Manager, in this capacity, he is responsible for operational and strategic leadership for the Siplast business. Goodrum brings over 26 years of experience in the roofing industry, holding various roles in R&D and technical leadership before taking the role of VP & GM. He holds a degree in physics from Henderson State University. Goodrum has been a driving force behind Siplast’s R&D efforts, helping introduce new products, making substantial improvements to existing ones, and adding to the number of patents Siplast holds. During his time in the leadership role he has led his team through transformational changes including expansion of the product portfolio, aggressive talent acquisition as well as adoption of Salesforce. Business revenue has grown 70% during his three years of management. Goodrum is deeply entrenched in the roofing industry, working closely with a number of industry organizations such as ARMA, SPRI, ASTM, IIBEC and NRCA. His contributions to these organizations over years include several leadership roles and spearheading initiatives. He is a published author with several articles and papers.

This blog contains information created by a variety of sources, including internal and third-party writers. The opinions and views expressed do not necessarily represent those of Siplast. The content is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to constitute financial, accounting, tax, or legal advice, or professional design advice as to any particular project. Siplast does not guarantee the accuracy, reliability, and completeness of the information. In no event shall Siplast be held responsible or liable for errors or omissions in the content or for the results, damages or losses caused by or in connection with the use of or reliance on the content. Consult a design professional to ensure the suitability or code compliance of a particular roofing system for any particular structure.