PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is also known as “vinyl” roofing. PVC is a single-ply membrane system that is specifically designed for use on flat or low-slope commercial and residential buildings. Roman’s Roofing and Restoration are experts in the area of commercial building PVC installation.
First developed in the 1960s, PVC roofing systems have a long history and a record of longevity lasting up to 25 or 30 years in some cases. Of course, how long the system lasts depends on multiple factors including installation, maintenance, weather conditions, among others.
Methods of PVC Installation
PVC is produced in rolls which are then attached directly to the substrate of your existing roofing structure. There are 2 primary methods of installing PVC.
Mechanically Attached
With the mechanically attached method of installation, screws and plates are utilized at the edges of each strip of PVC. These screws and plates, also called anchors, physically attach the sheets of PVC to your existing roof structure. The sheets are attached in an overlapping manner, with seams heat welded to prevent separation. Depending on the structure, an attachment plate may also be involved.
The mechanically attached method of installation has certain benefits to consider.
- Lower Cost. As no adhering chemical is needed, the cost of installation is generally reduced.
- No attachment plate requirement. In some, but not all roofing installations, the use of an attachment plate is not required. This again can reduce cost.
- Larger installation window. Adhering chemicals or “glue” generally need a temperature above the 50°F range for good adherence. The use of mechanical fasteners eliminates this variable entirely.
- Quicker Installation. Mechanically attached PVC is a quicker installation than chemically adhered.
Chemically Adhered
With the chemical adherence method of installation, a chemical adherent or “glue” is spread over an installed base plate. The PVC sheets are then feathered across this glue and rolled down. As the glue sets up, the bond is formed, and adherence occurs. These sheets are also laid in an overlapping manner and the seams heat welded.
The chemically adhered method of installation also has certain benefits to consider.
- Aesthetics. The chemically adhered method offers a smoother look, for a more professional appearance.
- Longer Warranty. Due to reduced risk of air lift, chemically adhered PVC systems generally offer a longer warranty, up to 25 or 30 years, depending on the system.
- Improved Barrier. The chemically adhered PVC acts as an air barrier, which reduces the risk of moisture forming under the PVC materials.
- Water based chemical adherents. If the building will be occupied during installation, water-based adherents are available to eliminate potentially noxious odors.
Benefits of PVC Roofing System
Like all roofing system materials, PVC has specific benefits to consider.
- Eco-friendly. The materials utilized are highly recyclable and, in fact, many of the “new” sheets of PVC purchased are composed of recycled “old” PVC materials. This both reduces your carbon footprint and is an efficient way to make your company “greener” in the eyes of your customers or clients.
- Durability. PVC is highly durable. PVC sheets range in thickness from 45mm to 80mm. The most common commercial sheets are 60mm to 80mm thick. PVC is highly resistant to algae or fungi build up, UV damage and environmental factors, as well.
- Strength. PVC has a minimum breaking point of 300 pounds per inch.
- Warranty. As noted previously, some PVC systems come with materials warranties in the 25 year or more range.
- Cool Roof Status. PVC can be highly reflective, helping reduce the solar heat inflicted on your roofing system. This reflection helps reduce cooling costs and saves you money.
- Longevity. Not only can your PVC roofing system last up to 25+ years, it can also extend the life of the roofing structure itself, by protecting the underlying substructure from damage.
The team at Roman’s Roofing and Restoration use the Conklin’s Flexion® PVC system. Flexion is a naturally fire-resistant PVC that is fortified with DuPont and Elvaloy, two proprietary additives that improve lifespan, flexibility, and overall toughness. Flexion is the John Wayne of the PVC arena and we are proud distributors of this brand.
Call Roman’s Roofing and Restoration today at 641-203-3538 to schedule your consultation. Working together, we will find the perfect solution for your commercial roofing requirements.