Common Question: What’s the Difference Between PVC & TPO Roofing Material?
When it comes to selecting the ideal roofing material for hot climates, property owners have a range of options to consider. One material that consistently stands out is PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) roofing. Known for its durability, energy efficiency, and ease of maintenance, PVC roofing offers a plethora of benefits particularly suited to hot and sunny environments such as the one we enjoy in South Florida.
While we are used to the heat in the Sunshine State, the temps keep climbing. In fact, it was reported that we officially recorded some of the hottest temps ever this summer.
PVC roofing can make a difference in environments with these rising temps. A white PVC roof can reflect 80% or more of the sun’s rays and emit at least 70% of the solar radiation absorbed by a building. In contrast, dark-colored asphalt or rubber roofs only reflect between 6% and 26% of solar radiation.
What is PVC Roofing? It’s always good to review a definition. So, what is this PVC, anyway? It can also be called PVC membrane roofing, and it employs a single-ply PVC roof membrane consisting of two layers of specially formulated vinyl bonded to a polyester reinforcement scrim layer. The light color of the PVC membrane roof allows it to deflect intense UV rays and improve energy efficiency.
Four Benefits of PVC Roofing in South Florida
Efficiency
PVC roofing creates energy efficiencies. Its reflective abilities decrease the amount of heat transferred into the building interior. This decrease lessens the high demand for air conditioning systems in the summer, thus lessening the strain on both operating costs and the electric power grid.
Durability
The elements are harsh in South Florida with its year-round sun and intense tropical weather. PVC roofing is durable enough to stand up to anything Florida’s unique environment can throw at it. Duro-Last PVC is resistant to chemical, oils and grease. It is inherently fire resistant. Your experienced roofing team will be able to help you determine if PVC is the best investment for your roofing needs.
Local Expertise
R&D Construction & Roofing is well-versed in using PVC roofing. Working with a roofing partner who is experienced in using PVC can make all the difference in the success of your new roof project. We have decades of experience ready to put to work for you.
Manufacturing Partnerships
Duro-Last is a leader in PVC roofing manufacturing. At R&D Construction and Roofing, we know that materials play a key role in quality, so we have optimized a strong partnership with Duro-Last to ensure our clients are getting only the best PVC from a manufacturer focused on quality, just like us.
How long do PVC roof panels last?
The life of the PVC roof panels usually extends between 20 and 30 years depending on the kind of materials used and the workmanship involved. Some premium grade PVC roofs, however, with proper maintenance can last up to 40 years. Several aspects affect the lifetime length of PVC roofs which are weather conditions, exposure to UV light or the maintenance practices. This building material is well known for it’s strength, resilience towards chemicals and wide range temperature, factors that also prolong its lifespan.
CHARACTERISTICS OF DURO-LAST PVC VS TPO
DURO-LAST PVC
- Resistant to chemicals, oils and grease.
- Inherently fire resistant
- Lends itself to custom fabrication
- Control over job site seaming
- Mechanical or adhered installation
- Easily recycled
- Serviceable over life-span on rooftop
TPO
- Resistant to microbial attack
- Vapor resistant
- Chemical resistant
- Oil, grease and wax may cause problems
- Fire retardants can attack UV stabilizers
- Welding sensitive to job site conditions
- Failure modes
- oxidative degradation
- significant high-heat degradation
At R&D Construction and Roofing, we are committed to delivering excellence in all our services, and we take pride in being a trusted partner for all your contracting needs.
R&D Construction and Roofing understands the importance of proactive planning and preparation in safeguarding commercial and residential properties against the unpredictable forces of nature, especially in a hurricane-prone region like Florida. By prioritizing preventative maintenance, adhering to building codes, and collaborating with experienced professionals, commercial property owners can enhance the resilience of their roofing systems and minimize the impact of hurricanes and storms. Together, we can be prepared for anything Mother Nature throws at us.
R&D Construction and Roofing is a licensed and insured commercial construction company serving Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach and Monroe Counties and the Tampa Bay area, specializing in complete commercial roofing, build-outs and tenant improvements. We provide an all-in-one construction solution for our customers from start to finish, including:
WE ARE CERTIFIED IN THE FOLLOWING COMMERCIAL ROOFING SYSTEMS
