Match the right roof to the right building

By Dani Sheehan. 

With StrongHold™, contractors can meet building owner needs with a family of solutions built for the realities of modern commercial roofing. 

Single-ply roofing may dominate the low-slope commercial market, but there is no universal answer when it comes to membrane selection. Building use, traffic, climate, rooftop equipment and owner expectations all influence what system makes the most sense. During a recent episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Shane Millwood of BITEC® highlighted the company’s StrongHold™ single-ply systems, outlining why contractors should think beyond a default specification and instead match each roof to the demands of the project. 

Why TPO continues to lead the market 

Shane explained that many newer contractors naturally gravitate toward TPO because “it’s low cost, so it’s budget friendly and installation is easier and faster.” He also noted that TPO is commonly used on large buildings with minimal foot traffic, such as warehouses and broad commercial facilities. 

StrongHold TPO is an ideal option for projects where speed, value and efficient coverage matter most. Available in multiple thicknesses and installation methods, StrongHold TPO gives contractors a practical solution for new construction and reroofing while also delivering the reflectivity many owners want to help manage rooftop temperatures and energy use. 

Where PVC adds value 

While TPO serves many projects well, some buildings require more from their roof system. Shane pointed to restaurants as a clear example, sharing that many fast-food facilities rely on PVC because it better resists grease and rooftop contaminants than standard alternatives. 

The material’s added resistance makes StrongHold PVC an especially valuable option for restaurants, food processing facilities, manufacturing plants and buildings where chemical exposure or rooftop discharge can shorten membrane life. Tight hot-air-welded seams and long-term flexibility further strengthen the case for projects requiring durability. The ability to perform under these conditions for decades far outweighs the upfront cost compared to TPO. 

KEE for demanding conditions and long-term performance 

Shane described KEE as “PVC on steroids,” because of its ability to support longer warranties and perform in more critical conditions. While different formulations exist across the market, the category is widely recognized for enhanced flexibility, weldability and long-term resistance to heat, UV and chemical exposure. 

The purpose of StrongHold KEE systems is to help contractors deliver a premium membrane option for buildings where longevity matters most. Data centers, hospitals, schools, cultural institutions and high-value commercial properties often need systems that can perform reliably over extended service lives. 

A full system approach 

BITEC offers adhesives, flashing components and accessories engineered to work with StrongHold sheets for secure bonds and watertight performance. Combined with membrane widths up to 120 inches for faster installs and fewer seams, the system is designed to support efficiency on the roof and durability over time. 

Listen to the full episode to learn more about StrongHold single-ply roofing systems.