SpecTips - APEEL™ Protective Film –The Better Way to Keep TPO Clean and Reflective

APEEL Protective Film

Architects and specifiers often select reflective white membranes like TPO because they absorb less heat in the summer months in hot and humid climates. When re-roofing or working on projects which are built in phases, the foot traffic can be dirty and abusive to the membrane.Inevitably,dirt and debris will be tracked from one roof section to another,reducing the membrane’s reflectiveness and aesthetics.

Typically, a dirty reflective roof membrane is cleaned using soap and water, pressure washers, or chemicals prior to turning the building over to the owner. As an alternative, Carlisle’s patented APEEL Protective Film should be specified.

APEEL is a protective film that is factory-applied to TPO membrane,and is easily removed once the project is complete. Carlisle’s APEEL guards the surface of the TPO membrane during construction, eliminating the need to clean the roof once the project is complete and saving time and money. In addition, APEEL improves aesthetics and long-term reflectivity, increases customer satisfaction,and eliminates the environmental impact of using water or chemicals to clean the roof.

Sure-Weld®TPO membrane with APEEL Protective Film is ideal for re-roofing, re-cover, and new construction projects.The APEEL Protective Film is durable and UV resistant, and can be left in place for up to 90 days while remaining easy to remove.

TIPS
As this film is designed to be removed, it allows the roof to start its service as clean as possible. APEEL Protective Film is in competition with power washing or extensive cleaning with Weathered Membrane Cleaner.

Language should be added to the TPO membrane specification to include APEEL Protective Film as part of the membrane description, such as “factory-applied protective film provided by manufacturer of membrane." This could be written as the “Basis of Design”,and the creation of acceptable alternates for other TPO membranes would need to add a phrase such as “field cleaning upon substantial completion of roofing system."

If a non-proprietary spec is being written, suggest APEEL as an alternate to power washing or extensive cleaning with Weathered Membrane Cleaner.

When using the Alternates method, utilize Division 1 –“Alternates” to include APEEL to the “Schedule of Alternates” list for inclusion in the bid.

For more information, visit the APEEL landing page.