Pvc Roofing Membrane Problems

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Pvc roofing membrane problems.

It is a white reinforced membrane with welded seams and flashings. A pvc roof is also resistant to uv radiation strong winds fire and chemicals. A properly heat welded seam is a much better seam than a glued or taped seam. Pvc membranes are manufactured to remain watertight in extreme conditions.

Older pvc roofs in cold weather are prone to shattering. Pvc roofs are distinguished by the way they are put together using hot air welding fusion welding of the seams. A pvc roofing membrane is highly resistant to constant dampness ponding water as well as high and low alkaline conditions. And the reason why pvc membranes are most often heat welded at the seams is because of the strength durability and stability of the material itself which unlike tpo is very difficult to heat weld properly because of the inferior quality of the membrane.

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. 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. Flat roof costs in us. Ib pvc flat roof installation.

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. Reported problems included seams coming apart leaks and membrane failures especially when exposed to excessive heat over a prolonged period of time. Also manufacturers strongly advise against installing epdm in the winter because glue freezes and the roof may leak.

Plant roots fungi and bacteria have no negative effect on a pvc membrane. Tpo on the other hand is inherently flexible and doesn t have plasticizers in it. Pvc s are documented to last longer than tpo membranes who are still experiencing premature failures. All roof products deteriorate over time and pvc has a tendency to shrink pulling the seams lifting corners and potentially causing leaks.

The membrane stands up to constant dampness ponding water as well as high and low alkaline conditions. Pvc can last well over 30 years. 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.