PVC Roof Installation
PVC roofing systems rank among the more popular and cost-effectively employed in commercial, industrial, and institutional facilities.
The use of a PVC roof installation for low-slope and flat roofs began about 60 years ago and the materials and products used have only improved over the years.
A well-constructed PVC roofing installation can last for 30 years or longer, making it a smart investment.
If you are considering the installation of a new PVC roof on your commercial property, you have landed in the right place.
What is a PVC Membrane Roof?
A PVC roof installation employs a single-ply membrane made from multiple layers of PVC that are bonded together with polyester for reinforcement.
This outer layer provides an excellent water removal system and protects commercial, industrial, and institutional buildings from damage caused by a leaking roof.
Often white or light-colored, a PVC commercial roofing system deflects intense UV rays while improving the energy efficiency of a facility.
Those are reasons why a PVC roofing installation ranks among the most popular and cost-effective opportunities.
PVC roof installers start by laying down insulation board over the supports and sheathing that comprise the roof deck.
An experienced PVC roof installation contractor usually leverages ISO or EPS foam boards with R-values between R4 and R6 per inch of insulation thickness.
This layer helps reduce energy loss and maximize the effectiveness of HVAC systems.
Roofing contractors generally rely on three types of PVC membrane roof materials.
These include a standard single-ply membrane with Energy Star certification known to deflect heat and protect against water damage.
A PVC KEE membrane utilizes Ketone Ethylene Ester to create a more flexible material, sometimes referred to as a rubber roof.
PVC KEE roofing systems can also be used with asphalt to enhance their durability.
A fleece-backed PVC membrane roof allows installers to roll out materials and reduce labor costs.
That’s because the fleece element is already attached to the underside of the membrane.
A meticulously constructed PVC roof installation can last for approximately 30 years when adequately maintained.
PVC systems are renowned for their ability to withstand intense weather and temperature swings.
Commercial property owners are advised to schedule an annual roof inspection and make any minor changes before they prove problematic.
It’s also crucial to schedule a roof inspection following a storm to promptly manage any wind or PVC roof hail damage.
When You Need PVC Roof Installation
There are two driving reasons commercial, industrial, and institutional buildings require PVC roof replacement — age and damage.
A PVC membrane roof generally lasts for at least three decades, and property owners and managers are advised to consider replacement when it reaches 80-85 percent of its life expectancy.
The second reason for a PVC roof replacement involves high wind incidents, hailstone strikes, and the impact of flying debris during a volatile storm.
A diligent roof inspection from a PVC roof installation services provider identifies deficiencies regarding age or the following types of storm damage.
PVC Roof Installation After Hail Damage
The inherent flexibility of a PVC membrane roof allows it to absorb impacts without tearing.
A hailstone the size of a quarter is unlikely to cause PVC roof hail damage unless it’s driven by high winds. But when ice the size of a baseball or larger makes a hard impact, property owners and managers need to contact a PVC roof installation contractor.
Hailstone strikes dent the underlying material of the roof deck, split welded seams, crack parapet sealants, and negatively impact the water removal system.
It’s not uncommon for moisture to accumulate within the flat PVC roof layers. There, hazardous mold growths flourish, and water damage is inflicted on structural supports.
PVC roof hail damage can quickly require a new PVC roof installation if left unchecked.
PVC Roof Installation After Hurricane Damage
Even the most determined system cannot always withstand hurricane roof damage.
A Category 1 hurricane achieves wind speeds above 74 mph.
At this rate, a storm picks up loose debris and objects that pelt siding, gutters, and the membrane of PVC roofing systems.
Some level of hurricane roof damage usually occurs when a Category 2 storm drives winds of 96 to 110 mph across residential areas and business districts.
Property owners and stewards of institutional buildings would be well-served to review their insurance policies regarding hurricane roof damage.
If the sometimes overly technical jargon in the policy leaves you unsure, we can connect you with a public adjuster firm to clarify your coverage.
A public adjuster can also help expedite a hurricane roof damage claim, following a roof inspection, and negotiate a full, fair settlement on your behalf.
It’s critical to file claims quickly so that a certified PVC roof installation services provider can make emergency repairs and prepare for a prompt PVC roof replacement if necessary.
PVC Roof Installation FAQs
Can you walk on a PVC roof?
Although people may walk on a flat PVC roof, taking precautions is important to prevent unnecessary damage. It’s wise to avoid heavy foot traffic and wear soft-soled shoes when possible. Be careful not to drop or place equipment on the surface. Safety also dictates everyday people should take notice that a flat PVC roof can be slippery.
How is a PVC roof membrane welded?
A process known as hot air welding is typically employed to merge membrane materials into a single resilient outer layer.
Heat is used to create welded seams by heating each seam until they separate sections soften and can be merged together.
How long does a PVC roof last?
A PVC roofing system enjoys a life expectancy of up to 25-30 years when properly maintained.
The key to maximizing the investment involves scheduling an annual roof inspection and making as-needed minor repairs.
How long can you warranty a PVC roofing system?
While warranties vary by manufacturer, RestoreMasters is a certified installer for several industry-leading manufacturers of PVC roofing materials and can offer premium coverage and warranties up to 30 years on the thickest membranes.
Do you work with insurance claims for PVC roof replacement?
RestoreMasters dispatches emergency repair crews when catastrophic storms cause widespread high-wind and hail roof damage. We can connect impacted commercial property owners with a reputable public adjuster firm to inspect your policy.
The public adjuster helps fast-track emergency repairs and a PVC roof replacement when needed. A public adjuster can also communicate directly with the insurance company on your behalf to negotiate a full, fair settlement.
How often should my PVC roof be inspected?
Annual inspections serve an important purpose in terms of maintenance, repair, longevity, and insurance coverage.
RestoreMasters creates a photographic record of each roof inspection that can be used to document the state of PVC roofing systems before and after a storm hits.
We also offer an Overwatch program that includes real-time weather monitoring, an insurance policy review, and rapid response in the event of a catastrophic storm.