PVC Service in Connecticut

PVC, which stands for polyvinyl chloride is another single ply membraned roofing

solution used on flat and semi flat commercial buildings. It is made from a lower percentage of oil and petroleum than TPO or EPDM. As a cool roof membrane, it carries both Energy Star and Cool Roof ratings.

PVC is surprisingly strong, which is shown in the breaking strength which is at least 350 pounds per square inch – far above the minimum breaking strength required by the ASTM, which is 200 pounds per square inch.

Because PVC is so strong and stable, it can be installed by heat welding the seams, as

opposed to other membranes that require adhesive or utilize a taped seam. This

installation method allows a PVC roof to expand and contract with a building. PVC can also be sealed with solvent welding and attached to metal flashing and other

components with adhesives.

Pros & Cons of PVC

Pros

• Strength – these roofs will typically last 20+ years.
• Resistant to chemicals and fire – Some commercial buildings, like warehouses and manufacturing facilities, will have significant amounts of exposure to chemicals. PVC roofs also do not support combustion, burn slowly, are difficult to ignite, and even extinguish fire if the source is removed.
• Recyclable & Eco friendly – It is highly efficient with heating and cooling and reflects the sun and mitigates the heat island effect in cities. Oh, and it is recyclable, even after years of service life.
  

Cons

• Cost – despite the benefits of PVC roofing, these features all come at a cost. It typically has a higher price per square foot cost than both EPDM and TPO.
• Installation – If this is a re-roofing job, you will need to completely remove the old roof before moving forward with the replacement, this also adds more cost to the job as it can be very labor intensive to remove the old roof.
• PVC roofing systems typically do not perform as well in cold climates. When it becomes too cold, PVC becomes brittle and can crack or even shatter if walkedon.