When you think of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), the first thing that comes to mind is probably plumbing or commercial buildings. However, PVC roofing material can also be an excellent choice for residential homes.
PVC is a popular roofing material because it’s strong, lightweight, low-maintenance, and energy-efficient. While it might be more common for commercial buildings, you can enjoy these same benefits as a homeowner if your roof is a good fit for a PVC system.
Curious if PVC is right for your home? At All Elements, our professional PVC roofing contractors are here to help! Send us a message or call us at 763-314-0234. We’re happy to answer all your questions.
What is Residential PVC Flat Roofing?
PVC roofing is a single-ply membrane composed of polyvinyl chloride and additives that provide reinforcement and increased durability. The PVC roofing membrane is applied as a flat sheet to the roofing substrate and secured in place with induction welding, mechanical attachments, or commercial adhesives.
Because it comes in large sheets, PVC is best suited for flat or low-slope roofs. If you have a roof with a steep pitch, consider roofing materials that are better suited, such as metal roofing or traditional asphalt shingles.
Even if the majority of your home has a pitched roof, you might still be able to use PVC in certain areas. For example, many homeowners can enjoy the benefits of PVC on their garage, balcony, or flat roof deck, while using other materials for steeper areas of their home.
Benefits of Using PVC Roofing for Residential Properties (And What to Consider)
PVC is chemical- and fire-resistant, making it an ideal choice for restaurants and other commercial properties that frequently handle grease and chemicals.
As a homeowner, you may not be concerned about oil resistance, but this material offers numerous other benefits that you can enjoy. PVC roofing benefits include:
Lower Labor Costs
Because PVC is easier to install, you can save money on labor. Not only are flat roofs easier to work on, but the process of installing a roll of PVC roofing material is often faster than attaching shingles.
PVC can be more expensive compared to other materials. Most homeowners pay between $5 and $15 per square foot for PVC, compared to $4 to $11 per square foot for more common roofing materials. That said, the longevity and energy efficiency of PVC can make up for the difference in material costs.
Energy Efficiency
Because most PVC roofs are white, they reflect heat from the sun, keeping your home cooler and reducing AC usage. With heat waves being an inevitable part of summer in Minnesota, you can potentially save big on your energy bills with a PVC roof.
Some homeowners are concerned about the environmental impact of using a plastic roofing material, but PVC can actually be recycled. At the end of the roof’s lifespan, the PVC can be removed and processed into new roofing materials or other similar products.
Improved Durability
Here in the Midwest, we regularly contend with hail, tornadoes, extreme temperatures, and damaging winds. PVC roofs have been shown to withstand hurricane-force winds without sustaining damage. Because the installation process creates a watertight barrier, PVC is also excellent for preventing leaks.
One drawback is that some types of polyvinyl chloride are susceptible to shrinking in cold temperatures. However, reinforced PVC offers improved cold resistance. And as with any material, proper installation from an experienced roofing contractor makes all the difference.
Low Maintenance
If you’re looking for a low-effort roof, PVC is a great option. Due to its durability, you rarely need to do any maintenance other than occasional debris removal. With a flat or low-slope roof, however, you will want to keep an eye on how much snow accumulates on your roof. Clearing off heavy snow from a flat roof is a good idea, whether you have traditional shingles or PVC.
While PVC is durable, regular roof inspections are recommended, regardless of the roofing material used. Let All Elements take care of your annual roof inspection so you have peace of mind that everything is in top shape.
How Long Do PVC Roofs Last?
PVC's lifespan is actually comparable to other residential roofing systems, such as composite shingle roofing, which can last anywhere between 15 and 40 years. On average, PVC roofing materials last up to 30 years. As with any roofing material, the lifespan will depend on things such as:
- The quality of the installation.
- Whether you regularly maintain the roof.
- If repairs are handled right away.
- Extreme weather events.
Working with a professional PVC roofing contractor and getting regular inspections is the best way to make your roof last longer.
What to Expect from the PVC Roofing Installation Process
The process of installing PVC roofing on a home is similar to that of a commercial building. The steps include:
- Preparing the roof surface. This involves removing the old roofing material and ensuring the substrate is in good condition. Your roofers may need to make repairs to the substrate at this stage if there is any damage.
- Installing the PVC roofing membrane. After preparing the surface, your roofers will apply the new material by using screws and plates, induction welding, or a commercial adhesive.
- Sealing the seams. Next, the overlapping sheets will be permanently fused with heat welding to create a uniform, waterproof surface.
- Installing flashing. Depending on the structure of your home, the roofers may install flashing along vertical areas to prevent water damage to chimneys, skylights, or adjoining walls.
- Inspecting the roof. After installation, the roof will be tested to ensure the seams are secure and no leaks can occur.
How to Find PVC Roofing Contractors
PVC roofing is usually associated with commercial buildings, but its durability and energy efficiency make it a great choice for some homeowners. If you have a flat or low-slope roof, don’t discount the idea of using PVC when you need a new roof.
All Elements, Inc. is here to help with any questions you might have about using residential PVC roofing in Minnesota. Call us today at 763-314-0234 to get a quote and talk to our roofing experts!