PVC roofing is a type of roofing that offers a reliable membrane. Builders usually install them in commercial buildings, but some residential establishments use them. No matter what kind of building you have, PVC roofs are a valuable investment.
In this article, you can learn more about this kind of roofing, its components, and the benefits of having it installed. Read on to learn more!
What Is PVC Roofing?
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) roofing is a system made of two white single-ply membrane layers to protect buildings. A special vinyl, sealed to a polyester scrim layer, makes up the two membranes.
PVC roofing is usually white in color to conserve energy and deflect powerful sun rays.
Roofing consultants have recommended this type of roof since the 1960s as it has many redeeming qualities, including impressive resistance to chemicals, fire, water, and grease. However, take note that this roofing can quickly get dirty due to its light color.
What Are the Main Components of the Roofing System?
So what is a PVC roofing system made up of? It’s more than just two membranes sealed together! The system has intricate layers of materials bound together to protect your building.
Here are the main components of a PVC roof:
Roof Deck
The roof deck is a sturdy layer placed on the supporting structures of the building. It’s the first building block for a roofing system using PVC, offering a firm foundation to build on.
Insulating Materials
The next layer, resting on the roof deck, is made of insulating materials. This level is usually customized based on the weather conditions of your region—more unpredictable weather conditions might require a heavier layer of insulation.
Connection Plates
Connection plates and fasteners comprise the layer between the insulation level and the roof deck, securing the two together.
Adhesives
Depending on the weather conditions of the area you are living in, roofing experts might choose to install the roof using additional bonding adhesives. This is often the case for those living in areas with many storms, as they might need an extra seal to prevent any water damage.
How Does PVC Roofing Installation Work?
There are usually three ways roofing experts can install PVC roofs, typically based on your living environment.
Here are the three primary ways that builders install these roofs:
1. Fully-Adhered PVC Roofing
In fully adhered fixtures, builders glue the PVC membrane roof layer to the underlying building layer with strong glue. Roofing experts might choose to use this technique to decrease penetration into the roof deck or if a building won’t support fasteners.
2. Mechanically Attached
Roofing experts install mechanically attached PVC flat roofs using screws and mechanical plates. They use this technique for buildings in geographical areas that often have hurricanes and tornadoes.
After all, roof membranes secured with mechanical materials are sturdier than other kinds.
3. Induction Welded
This final roofing installation technique uses welding to seal PVC membranes to a metal plate. Builders use welding tools to heat this plate and let the membrane stick firmly to it, requiring fewer fasteners than the other techniques.
Why Should You Get a PVC Roofing?
The advantages of getting a PVC roof are many. Here are some of the most prominent ones:
High Levels of Resistance
PVC roof membranes are highly resistant to grease, chemicals, and water. They’re also heat resistant and can trigger building cooling as they have low thermal conductive abilities. The fact that the roofs are heat-resistant allows for decreased insurance costs.
Environmentally Friendly
PVC roofs are also environmentally friendly, possessing the ability to be recycled several times. They’re also energy efficient due to being white or light colored, especially if you live in a warm climate.
In other words, they reflect sunlight, allowing the area below them to be significantly cooler. This means you don’t have to rely on a cooling system and can save power!
Low Maintenance Requirements
PVC roofs require little maintenance—a significant advantage for many people. The only type of maintenance you’ll need to carry out is cleaning the roof if the light color getting dirty bothers you. If you don’t mind it being dirty, you can skip this cleaning step!
Highly Durable and Long-Lasting
Durability is a significant advantage for PVC roofs, lasting as long as 30 years due to the watertight installation techniques. This is impressive when you consider that other flat membrane roofs only last 15 to 20 years, often due to water damage.
How Much Does PVC Roofing Cost?
PVC roof is usually more costly than other membrane roofs, averaging between $14 and $17 per square foot. Thankfully, many roofing companies may offer you the roof at a lower cost if you aim to cover a large surface area.
Though the roof may be costly, installation is cost-effective regarding labor costs. Roofing systems using PVC require minimum labor, allowing a decrease in working hours, so you’ll pay cheaper labor costs for installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Difference Between PVC and TPO Roofing?
PVC roofing is made of polyvinyl chloride, while thermoplastic polyolefin makes up TPO roofing. There are benefits for each roofing type, so you should discuss the best one for your building with a specialist.
Are PVC Roof Systems Eco-Friendly?
Yes, roofing systems using PVC are eco-friendly, as you can recycle them several times due to their composition. They are also eco-friendly because they can last 30 years, reducing carbon emissions and waste.
Are PVC Systems Considered Cost-Efficient?
In the long run, roofing experts consider PVC systems very cost-efficient as they can last for a long time if maintained properly. They can also save energy by 40 percent or more, saving you substantial cash in the long run!
Final Word
PVC roofs, made up of two white membrane layers that offer substantial protection to your buildings, might be a costly investment, but they’re an investment that’s worth your while.
This roofing system’s benefits include being environmentally friendly and highly resistant, making it a great roofing option.
When it comes to installation, there are several techniques that roofing experts might utilize based on the weather conditions where you are living. However, it’s critical to choose skilled roofing experts to install your PVC roof to protect your building and help it last for 30 years or more!
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