The last thirty years has seen the emergence from the rubber and plastics industry of a generation of highly engineered roofing membranes. These membranes are polymer based and are not derivatives of bituminous membranes; They are sometimes referred to collectively as 'single ply' roofing systems.

Polymer based roofing membrane systems can now offer a proven solution to the problems of providing a durable, long term, waterproof covering for any type of building. They have a well established history of use in widely differing climatic conditions throughout the world. They may be applied in fully adhered or bonded systems by mechanical fastening and by loose laying with suitable ballasting.