If you’re in the market for a new roof, you’ve probably heard of PVC roofing. The trend of using PVC roofing materials is on the rise and for good reason. There are numerous advantages to using PVC roofing, including durability, energy efficiency, and low maintenance costs. However, there are also some downsides that cannot be ignored when selecting a roofing material. In this blog post, we will discuss the pros and cons of PVC roofing so that you can make an informed decision about whether it’s right for your building. Additionally, we’ll dive deeper into what exactly PVC roofing is, its components, manufacturers, warranties as well as installation processes to help guide you in choosing the right PVC roofing system for your needs.
Pros and Cons of PVC Roofing
While PVC roofing may cost more than asphalt shingles or other roofing options, its durability makes it a popular choice for commercial buildings with low-slope or flat roofs. PVC roofing membranes are lightweight yet fire-resistant and have a long lifespan. They are also waterproof and resistant to ultraviolet rays, corrosion, and hail damage. When installed by a professional roofing contractor, PVC roofs have a great insulation value and can save energy costs.
Understanding PVC Roofing
PVC roofing is a high-performance plastic roof that’s lightweight and fire-resistant. This type of roofing system is made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a durable plastic material that’s commonly used in single-ply roofing membranes. PVC roofs are known for their durability and longevity, making them a great option for commercial buildings with flat or low-slope roofs. They’re also popular in green roofs and patio covers because they’re waterproof and UV resistant. PVC roofs can last up to 30 years with proper insulation and installation by a qualified commercial roofing contractor.
What is PVC Membrane Roofing?
PVC membrane roofing is a durable and flexible type of single-ply roofing made from polyvinyl chloride. It is weather-resistant, but installation can be complex and should be done by a professional. PVC roofing has a longer lifespan than traditional materials, but may not be ideal for areas with extreme temperatures.
Types of PVC Roofing Membranes
PVC roofing membrane comes in two types- reinforced and non-reinforced. While the former has polyester/fiberglass mesh embedded that adds strength & stability, the latter is thinner & flexible. PVC roofing is durable, energy-efficient & resistant to weathering. It’s popular as a single-ply roofing system for commercial buildings that require high-performance roofing systems.
Standard PVC Roof Membrane
One of the most popular choices for low-slope and flat roofs in the roofing industry is PVC roofing. The standard PVC roof membrane consists of a single-ply material that is relatively lightweight but highly durable. This makes installation and maintenance an easy job for any roofing contractor. It also provides high-performance waterproofing with seams welded together using hot air or adhesives. Moreover, it’s fire-resistant making it an excellent option for commercial facilities.
PVC KEE Roof Membrane
Made up of PVC and ethylene, PVC KEE roofing membrane is lightweight, durable, and resistant to UV rays, weathering, hail, and corrosion. It’s a great option for flat roofs or low-slope commercial facilities due to its long lifespan of up to 20-30 years. The plastic roofing system uses hot air welding to create strong seams between the single-ply roofing membrane without fasteners or adhesives.
Fleece Backed PVC Roof Membrane
A great option for flat roofs of commercial facilities is the fleece backed PVC roof membrane, a high-performance single-ply roofing system. This lightweight and durable roofing membrane is made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a fire-resistant plastic that reflects ultraviolet (UV) rays. It is waterproofed using adhesives or fasteners while minimizing seams, thereby extending its lifespan. Although it’s more expensive than asphalt shingles or TPO, this white membrane provides excellent insulation while reducing energy consumption, making it an eco-friendly choice for green roofs or patio covers.
Components of a PVC Roofing System
A high-performance PVC roofing system consists of multiple layers, including insulation and a durable membrane that provides excellent waterproofing. The most critical component of any roofing project is proper installation to ensure long-lasting performance. PVC roofing systems are lightweight, fire-resistant, and have a longer lifespan than traditional asphalt shingles. They’re also a popular choice for commercial facilities due to their low slope design and great options for flat roof applications.
PVC Roof Manufacturers
When searching for a high-performance roofing system for your commercial building or flat roof project, consider researching PVC membrane manufacturers. Look for those with solid certifications and who adhere to strict industry standards. Additionally, select a company with great customer reviews and testimonials regarding both their products’ durability and how well they hold up under hail damage. Finally, seek out environmentally conscious companies that offer strong warranties.
PVC Roof Warranties
PVC roofing systems come with warranties ranging from 10 to 30 years that cover defects in materials, workmanship, and installation. Before purchasing a PVC roofing system, it’s essential to read and comprehend the warranty terms and conditions properly. Additionally, some transferable warranties ensure that the protection remains even after property changes ownership.
PVC Roof Hail & Wind Damage Photos
The plastic roofing material known as PVC roofing has gained popularity in recent years due to its high performance and durability. This lightweight roofing system is fire-resistant and has a lifespan that exceeds that of traditional asphalt shingles. The PVC roofing membrane’s welding process results in waterproof seams resistant to hail, UV rays, and corrosion from copper plumbing. It is a great option for flat roofs on commercial facilities both vertically or horizontally.
Benefits of a PVC Roofing System
PVC roofing membrane is a high-performance single-ply roofing system that is lightweight, durable, and fire-resistant. It can withstand UV rays and hail damage while being easy to install with adhesives or fasteners. With a lifespan of up to 30 years and a variety of colors available, PVC roofing membranes are a popular choice for commercial facilities.
PVC Roof Installation
A plastic roof could be your solution for a durable yet lightweight roofing system. Made with polyvinyl chloride (PVC), this high-performance single-ply roofing membrane is resistant to fire and lasts up to 30 years. Although it may require professional installation and can cost more than asphalt shingles upfront. PVC roofs are an excellent choice for flat or low-slope commercial roofs.
PVC vs TPO Roofing Materials
When selecting roofing materials for your commercial building project, consider factors such as durability and ease of installation. TPO roofing materials offer a cheaper alternative that is also environmentally friendly and easy to install. However, for high-performance roofing systems that are resistant to chemicals and UV rays with a longer lifespan, PVC roofing membranes are a popular choice among commercial facilities. Keep in mind that while the initial cost of PVC may be higher than other options like asphalt shingles or polycarbonate patio covers; the long-term benefits such as fire-resistant roofs with welded seams make it a smart investment for flat roofs.
Choosing the Right PVC Roofing System
When selecting a roofing system for your building, choosing the right PVC roofing system can be challenging. Factors to take into account include the thickness and quality of the roofing membrane, its durability and resistance to weather, chemicals, and fire. Evaluate warranties offered by manufacturers and installers to determine their trustworthiness. Also consider factors like suitability for your building type and location as well as installation process when making your decision.
Adhered PVC Roofing Systems
Adhesive-based PVC roofing systems provide superior protection against chemicals, punctures, and UV radiation. Its flexibility makes it ideal for irregular roofs. However, these systems may need more maintenance due to shrinkage or adhesive failure. Before installing a PVC roofing system, it’s essential to evaluate the specific requirements of your building and seek professional advice.
Conclusion
PVC roofing is an excellent option for those who want a durable and long-lasting roofing system. It’s lightweight, energy-efficient, and sustainable, making it a popular choice for commercial and residential properties. However, like any other roofing material, PVC also has its downsides. It can be expensive compared to other roofing materials and may not be suitable for all climates. Before you decide on a PVC roofing system, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons carefully. If you’re considering installing a PVC roof or any other type of roof, reach out to our team for expert advice on choosing the right roofing system that fits your needs and budget.
