PVC Roofing Warrants Consideration When Installing or Replacing a Flat Roof

In contrast to the sloped roofs commonly installed on the majority of private residences, it is customary to see flat roofs installed on commercial structures, industrial complexes, educational/municipal/recreational buildings, and multi-level apartments/condominiums. Flat roofing is favoured in these latter situations because its installation is typically easier and faster to complete, which in turn helps save time/reduce labour costs.

While any concept/model of a flat roof should be apparent based on its description alone, the complexity enters the equation with the selection of a roofing material or membrane.  In times past, the primary choice would be a multiple-layered mix of tar and gravel; this is a somewhat less expensive option but can be heavy and lacking in elasticity, especially in cold temperatures; furthermore, if this type of roofing develops a leak, it could prove challenging to find the actual source.

In time, new technologies brought about the introduction of alternative materials for flat roofing systems, including Polyvinyl Chloride (or PVC), a more lightweight, more flexible, single-ply membrane.  PVC roofing consists of thermoplastic sheets that have a capacity to become softer or pliable above a certain temperature then harden again upon cooling.

PVC roofing has a number of other distinguishing qualities in addition to its thermoplastic properties; these characteristics include:

• Durability – a result of heat-welded seams that create a watertight seal
• Tapes, adhesives, caulks/sealants are not needed as with other systems
• Energy efficiency – heat-reflective properties result in lower cooling costs
• Very resistant to high winds, to chemical exposure, and to ignition/flames

Additionally, PVC roofing systems offer several unique benefits over some other types of flat roof materials, notably:

• Not affected by exposure to fungus, bacteria, or plants (green roofing)
• Can be installed over existing roof systems (saves installation time/cost)
• Degree of flexibility allows for easy modification to fit a range of rooftops
• Not subject to damage by animal fats (e.g. from restaurant grease vents)

With the installation of any type of roofing system, property/building owners will want to maximize their return on investment; in essence, this means getting the longest service life possible from their choice of material or membrane.  PVC roofing sheets have a life expectancy of more than 20 years, which on its own is advantageous from a cost versus return perspective; but there are steps that building owners/maintenance staff can take to potentially extend that lifespan as well, such as:

• Looking for evidence of ponding/standing water (e.g. mold growth)
• Ensuring that drainage is continually effective (to stop ponding water)
• Inspecting all flashing/seams after major storms for possible separation
• Routine inspections for signs of wear-and-tear that need immediate repair

There are indeed a significant number of benefits to PVC roofing to warrant consideration when commercial property owners/managers are looking to install or replace a flat roof; and depending on the specific situation, PVC roofing sheets may be the ideal choice over other available membranes.   To determine whether PVC roofing would be the best/right system for their particular structure, building owners/managers would be well-advised to consult with a contractor like Can-Sky Roofing, a leading commercial roofing company in Toronto for over 15 years.

Proper Installation of PVC Roofing Systems for Optimal Return on Investment

As stated above, one of the prime expectations subsequent to installing any new roofing system is the longest possible lifespan, thus delivering an optimal return on investment.  And the key to ensuring effective and lasting performance from a roof lies at the outset, that is, with the quality of its installation.

Though this should go without saying for any roof, it is of particular importance with PVC roofing due to the need for proper heat-welding of the seams in order to establish strong and reliable watertight seals.  For more than 15 years, Can-Sky Roofing has provided skilled commercial flat roof installations and replacements for property owners in Toronto and its surrounding area.  Can-Sky Roofing crews are trained and certified to install all types of flat roof systems, including PVC roofing sheets/membranes, for a wide variety of commercial, industrial, and institutional structures/facilities.

To learn more about the full scope of flat roof services provided by the specialists from Can-Sky Roofing, please go to our Roofing Repairs & Installation Service page

Looking for an effective, energy-efficient, and durable material for a new or replacement flat roof?  Call the flat roof installation experts from Can-Sky Roofing at 647-691-0487 today to request a complimentary consultation and estimate for the installation of a PVC roofing system for your commercial property.