Roof Termination Bars in Single Ply Roofing: What You Need to Know

If you own a home or commercial building in Colorado with a single ply roofing system—like TPO, PVC, or EPDM—understanding roof termination bars can save you from costly repairs down the road.

These small but critical components play a big role in keeping your roof watertight, especially in Colorado’s freeze-thaw climate.

What Is a Roof Termination Bar?

A termination bar (also called a “term bar” or “termination strip”) is a metal or plastic bar used to secure the edge of a single ply roofing membrane where it ends vertically—like at walls, curbs, or parapets.

It’s typically fastened with screws or anchors to hold the membrane tight against the vertical surface. A sealant is applied along the top edge of the bar to prevent water intrusion.

Why Are Termination Bars Important?

In a single ply roofing system, the membrane can’t always be wrapped fully over vertical surfaces. That’s where termination bars come in.

They provide:

• Secure anchoring of the membrane where it ends

• Protection against wind uplift

• Watertight seal when combined with the right sealant

• Compliance with roofing codes and manufacturer specs

Without a proper termination, wind, rain, and snowmelt can infiltrate the roofing system—leading to membrane failure or leaks.

Where Are Termination Bars Used?

You’ll typically find term bars at:

• Parapet walls

• Equipment curbs

• Roof-to-wall transitions

• Around HVAC units or skylights

• Edge metal transitions when flashing is not continuous

In Colorado cities like Denver or Fort Collins where snow loads and wind uplift are major concerns, termination bars are a standard part of any professional single ply install.

Key Installation Guidelines

Per NRCA and MCA guidelines, a proper termination bar installation includes:

• Using corrosion-resistant bars (often aluminum or stainless steel)

• Placing fasteners no more than 8 inches apart (closer in high-wind zones)

• Applying compatible sealant at the top edge

• Making sure the membrane is not overstretched

For best performance, the bar should be installed over a properly primed substrate when required by the membrane manufacturer.

FAQs About Termination Bars

Do I need termination bars if I have edge metal?
Not always. If edge metal or coping is installed per manufacturer guidelines and covers the membrane, you might not need a term bar. But for vertical surfaces without metal termination, they’re essential.

Can I reuse a termination bar during roof repairs?
It’s not recommended. Bars can bend or strip when removed. Always use new fasteners and bars during re-roofing or membrane replacement.

What happens if my termination bar fails?
You could experience leaks, wind damage, or membrane blow-off. That’s why regular inspections are critical.

Call Roof Nuts for Expert Roofing in Colorado

If you’re not sure whether your roof has proper terminations, or you're planning a new flat roof, we can help. At Roof Nuts, we specialize in commercial and residential single ply roofing across:

• Denver

• Colorado Springs

• Aurora

• Fort Collins

• Lakewood

• And beyond

Call us at 303-276-2403 or visit https://RoofNutsCO.com to schedule a roof evaluation.