Single Ply Roofing Association (SPRA)

The Single Ply Roofing Association (SPRA) is a trade association for the single-ply roofing industry in the United Kingdom. Its members include manufacturers of single-ply membranes, specialist roofing contractors and suppliers of related components. Its website is spra.co.uk.

What single-ply roofing is

Single-ply roofs use one layer of flexible synthetic membrane to waterproof a flat or low-slope roof. Common materials are PVC, TPO, EPDM and other polymers. The membranes can be mechanically fastened, fully adhered or ballasted, and seams are joined by hot-air welding or by tapes and adhesives depending on the material. In the UK they are widely used on commercial, industrial, education and public buildings, and increasingly on homes with flat roofs.

Activities

• Technical guidance. SPRA members monitor, develop and report on new technology for single-ply products, installation methods and aftercare. The association produces technical resources for designers and contractors.
• Training. SPRA runs and supports training programmes, courses and qualifications for installers and is working to make training more accessible and affordable.
• Standards. Single-ply products in the UK are tested and declared against European standards such as EN 13956 (flexible sheets for roof waterproofing). SPRA represents the sector in UK standards and regulation discussions, including fire performance of roof systems.

Relationship to other bodies

SPRA is separate from the U.S. trade association SPRI, which develops ANSI standards for the North American single-ply market. In the UK, SPRA works alongside other roofing associations such as the National Federation of Roofing Contractors and the Liquid Roofing and Waterproofing Association.

For building owners

Membership in a trade association like SPRA indicates that a contractor or manufacturer has chosen to join an industry body; it is not a licence. Owners should ask about installer training, manufacturer approval and the warranty terms offered for the roof system.