PVC FLAT ROOFING SYSTEMS
PVC ROOFING SERVICES
Flat roofs are the most popular type of roofing system among commercial buildings, and are great because they offer a wide variety of materials that can be used depending on the type of roof that you need. One of those materials is PVC.
What Is A PVC Roofing System?
PVC stands for polyvinyl chloride, and in the industry it’s also referred to as vinyl roofing. When you think of PVC, you’re probably thinking of the long, white pipes, and you’re not too far off. PVC roofing isn’t much different than that. In fact, it’s made of the same material. The only difference is that an additional material is added to make the PVC material a bit more flexible.
A PVC roof is typically composed of two layers of PVC. In between these two layers, a polyester is added to serve as additional support. The PVC material comes in rolls that are spread out and installed across your flat roof.
Advantages Of PVC Roofing
PVC roofing offers many advantages for a business owner. Perhaps the biggest advantage is its strength. Typically lasting over 20 years, PVC is one of the most durable and long-lasting of all flat roof materials. PVC roofs are so strong because they are hot air welded at the seams, forming watertight bonds that are actually stronger than the PVC itself.
Because of these welded seams, PVC roofs are all but waterproof. Unless there was a mistake during installation, PVC roofs will almost never leak, and this is an especially desirable trait here in Florida where rain and thunderstorms are a common occurrence year-round. PVC roofs are also resistant to other Florida elements like high winds. In fact, PVC roofs often survive hurricane force winds, making them a great choice for commercial roofing applications.
An interesting advantage of PVC roofing that may be beneficial for some business owners is PVC’s unique resistance to some chemicals and oils. PVC is especially resilient to grease, making it a great choice for restaurant owners that have exhausts or grease vents on their roofs.
PVC is also a great material if you’re looking to save on energy costs. This is mainly due to it’s white color that reflects the Florida sunshine. Commercial PVC roofing systems are often some of the coolest roofs out there.
Disadvantages Of PVC Roofing
The main disadvantage of PVC roof systems is its cost. Compared to other roof systems, PVC can be a costly investment, but it may be worth it for you considering PVC’s sturdiness and hardiness. Where other materials will fade and start to crack, PVC will outlast several roofing materials, making it worth the initial investment to some.
Another disadvantage for PVC roofs is that it is incompatible with asphalt, a common roofing material. When asphalt and PVC meet, both materials are impacted negatively. The PVC roof will become stiff and age prematurely while the asphalt will soften and start to “bleed” (expand). If you have asphalt on your roof, you must either remove it entirely or be able to separate it from the PVC material before the PVC roof can be installed.
We welcome the opportunity to serve your commercial roofing needs. If you’re researching commercial roofing companies in Southwest Florida, we welcome the opportunity to earn your business. Contact our office today to learn more about our company and for a FREE estimate. We look forward to hearing from you!