Pvc Roofing Membrane Problems

The good news is that reputable manufacturers have taken care of these issues and astm standards have been critical in achieving the base line of minimal acceptable performance and features.

Pvc roofing membrane problems.

All roof products deteriorate over time and pvc has a tendency to shrink pulling the seams lifting corners and potentially causing leaks. Pvc can last well over 30 years. As noted in the chart below created from rs means data if you compare the life cycle costs of a sarnafil roof estimated to last 35 years versus a tpo roof lasting 20 years pvc is the less expensive choice. A pvc roofing membrane is highly resistant to constant dampness ponding water as well as high and low alkaline conditions.

Ib pvc flat roof installation. Reported problems included seams coming apart leaks and membrane failures especially when exposed to excessive heat over a prolonged period of time. Moreover hot air welding also ensures that the membrane will remain pliable and will be impervious to leaks even if there are puddles of ponding water on the roof. Tpo on the other hand is inherently flexible and doesn t have plasticizers in it.

Pvc on the upper end of the price spectrum there is pvc roofing. Pvc s are documented to last longer than tpo membranes who are still experiencing premature failures. Pvc membranes are manufactured to remain watertight in extreme conditions. Flat roof costs in us.

Also exposure to plant roots fungi and bacteria have no negative impact on a pvc roofing membrane. Hot air welding creates a permanent physical bond between the sheets that is actually stronger than the membrane itself making pvc roof installation fast and ensuring that critical areas are permanently watertight. The membrane stands up to constant dampness ponding water as well as high and low alkaline conditions. Plant roots fungi and bacteria have no negative effect on a pvc membrane.

Pvc roofs are distinguished by the way they are put together using hot air welding fusion welding of the seams. Older pvc roofs in cold weather are prone to shattering. Gaf everguard tpo is a proven membrane and the 60 mil version is a good all around choice. Heat causes faster loss of the plasticizers that are used in pvc to make it flexible.

A properly heat welded seam is a much better seam than a glued or taped seam. A pvc roof is also resistant to uv radiation strong winds fire and chemicals. Good luck with your project.