SPRI

SPRI is a trade association in the United States that represents manufacturers and suppliers of sheet membranes and related components for commercial low-slope roofing. Its members make single-ply membranes such as EPDM, TPO and PVC, as well as insulation, fasteners, adhesives, edge metal and drains. A 2004 profile described it as having represented these suppliers for more than 20 years. Its website is spri.org.

Standards work

SPRI is best known for developing consensus standards through the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) process. It became an official ANSI canvasser in 1994. Its standards are cited by designers, building codes and insurers. Examples include:

• ANSI/SPRI ES-1 – wind design for edge systems (such as copings and gravel stops) on low-slope roofs. Roof edges are where wind uplift failures often start, so this standard is widely referenced. Later editions were published jointly with FM Approvals.
• ANSI/SPRI RP-4 – wind design for ballasted single-ply roof systems, which use stone or pavers to hold the membrane down.
• ANSI/SPRI RD-1 – retrofit roof drains.
• ANSI/SPRI FX-1 – field test procedures for the pull-out resistance of roofing fasteners.

SPRI also offers educational presentations and tools on wind design for low-slope roofs.

Other activities

The association holds conferences, publishes technical bulletins and environmental product declarations for membrane types, and works with other organisations such as roofing contractor associations and building consultant groups.

Context

Single-ply roofs are common on commercial, industrial and institutional buildings in North America, Europe and elsewhere. In the United Kingdom, the Single Ply Roofing Association plays a similar but separate role. SPRI standards are U.S.-based; other countries rely on their own wind-load codes and European or national standards.