PolyVinly Chloride (PVC) information
PVC is on 20% of roofs in the United States. PVC roofs are mainly put on low-sloped buildings. The highly reliable membrane is a very strong. This reinforced PVC roofing membrane has more attributes than a standard roofing material or other forms of roofing materials. The membrane is applied by the process of heat welding seam technology. This process allows for one single layer of the PVC material to cover the entire roofing surface. “PVC is a product prefered more because it is chemical resistant and is more efficient”.(White) The material is extremely durable, and has a high resistance to punctures and impacts, as well as fire. The process for applying the material is quick, easy and simple. PVC is maintenance free as it is waterproof and dirt resistant. “Usually woven with fabrics such as glass fibre and polyester, the PVC roofing membrane can provide up to 80% solar reflectivity, thereby reducing heat island effects and cooling costs.” (PVC Roofing Benefits). Those are just some of the different aspects of PVC roofing membrane.
ETHYLENE POLYPROPYLENE DIeNE Monomer (EPDM) Information
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) creates a single-layer roof system that is rubber material that is also a choice for low-sloped roofs. “EPDM RUBBER is slightly lower than both natural rubber and polyisoprene in resilience and tensile. EPDM is not recommended for applications involving petroleum derivatives”. The EPDM can be used in a very wide variety of roofing shapes and slopes. EPDM is used as sealers and patches in a quick fix system for do it yourself roofers that have no experience in the industry. EPDM roofing systems do not require a mineral coating which makes them lighter than gravel and tar roofs. EPDM has been in use on roofs in the USA since the 1960’s because it is relatively inexpensive and simple to install (EPDM Rubber). The EPDM will last between 12-15 years while the PVC is lasting 20+ years on buildings still standing today. The ethylene is about 45%-75% of the membrane. “EPDM membranes are not a good if somebody is looking to cut down on some of the bills such as the air condition. It would not be a smart idea because of the dark colors that soak in sunlight and raise temperatures unlike the white PVC membrane which is a cool roofing innovation of the business.” (The EPDM Roof System)
Benefits of pvc
- Easily Repairable
- Durable
- Long Lasting
- Maintenance Free
- Solar Reflectivity
- Energy Efficient
PVC roofing systems have witnessed tremendous growth in recent years due to a variety
of standout characteristics, notably: longevity; durability in harsh weather and temperature
extremes; low life-cycle costs; energy efficiency; heat and solar reflectance; flame resistance;
chemical and grease resistance; ease of maintenance; ease and flexibility of installation; and
inherent recyclability/re-use, among many other benefits. Often referred to as the first “cool
roofing” system, PVC is energy-efficient, environmentally sustainable, long-lasting and costeffective.
of standout characteristics, notably: longevity; durability in harsh weather and temperature
extremes; low life-cycle costs; energy efficiency; heat and solar reflectance; flame resistance;
chemical and grease resistance; ease of maintenance; ease and flexibility of installation; and
inherent recyclability/re-use, among many other benefits. Often referred to as the first “cool
roofing” system, PVC is energy-efficient, environmentally sustainable, long-lasting and costeffective.
Disadvantages of EPDM
- Short Lasting
- Very low Solar Reflectivity
- Less Durable
- More Maintenance
- Less Energy Efficient
Most common problems with fully-adhered single-ply flat roofing systems (Mostly EPDM rubber) are defects in glue/adhesive application that cause bubbles, badly glued seams and as a result, a very unpleasant view and more often leading to roof leaks. The image bellow demonstrates a defective Epdm rubber application.
Choosing the best...
So take a choice to a better roofing life with Sarnafil’s PVC membrane instead of the leading rubber EPDM offered by Carlile. Do not just take the easy and cheapest way out with a roofing system that will not withstand and outlast weather. PVC has the proven facts to become the most dependable roofing system and membrane there is out there in the roofing business today. That is why white PVC roofing materials are a much better product than the black EPDM because the white PVC is a much more reliable and is an energy saving product.