Grease and oil can be detrimental to almost any roof membrane system's performance. Bituminous products typically will turn soft and spongy following prolonged exposure to animal fats and cooking oil (the most likely discharges from kitchen exhaust fans). Some thermoset membranes can swell and deteriorate when exposed to organic fats and oils. Furthermore, seam adhesives may lose their bonding power and cause seams to rupture, leading to roof failure.

Grease and oil can cause other problems, as well, such as fall hazards for rooftop maintenance workers and an increased potential for fire. Furthermore, water runoff going into a sewer system or grounds adjacent to the building may be contaminated from grease and oil. Whether you are a restaurant, food processor, manufacturing facility or property developer, you are subject to unnecessary liabilities, rooftop safety hazards and code violations.