Abstract: An impact resistant membrane and methods of preparing and utilizing the membrane are disclosed. The membrane comprises a loft layer, a first polymeric layer bonded to a first surface of the loft layer, and a second polymeric layer bonded to a second surface of the loft layer. The membrane can be fabricated by providing a loft layer and applying a polymeric layer on a first surface and on a second surface of the loft layer. The membrane has a higher resistance to failure due to impact and thus protects the underlying structure membrane for a longer time. A method of facilitating protecting a structure comprises providing a single ply membrane having a loft layer and a polymeric layer disposed on at least two surfaces of the loft layer.

Abstract: The invented product is a fleecebacked laminate that is suitable as a single-ply fleecebacked roofing membrane. The laminate consists of the following: 1) a thermoplastic reinforced planar sheet, 2) a needle punched fleece formed on both sides of the thermoplastic reinforced planar sheet, and 3) a thermoplastic polymeric layer extruded onto one side of the fleece. The fleece is formed by needle punching fibers through the reinforced planar sheet. The reinforced planar sheet serves as a common supporting base the resulting two-side fleece. The thermoplastic polymeric layer is embedded with one side of the fleece fibers. The thermoplastic polymeric layer serves as the top layer of the roofing membrane, and the second side of exposed fleece serves as a felt. The thermoplastic polymeric layer is preferably comprised of an extruded PVC substrate, compounded to have excellent weather resistance, printability and to be nonflammable. The fleece fibers are preferably composed of polyester.