A commercial roof with PVC material on it against a blue sky.

What Are the Pros and Cons of PVC Roofing?

Owning a business is a wonderful and rewarding experience most of the time. However, certain situations can leave owners feeling overwhelmed, worried, or even stressed. Hearing the words, “you need a new roof,” can be a lot to consider when looking at all the different types of roofing, cost, etc.

If you’ve ever been in this situation and considered PVC roofing, you’ve come to the right place for more information! With more than 60 years of experience in the commercial roofing industry and having installed dozens of PVC roofs, you can count on us to help you weigh the pros and cons of PVC roofing.

What Is PVC Roofing?

PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is a single-ply membrane for low-slope roofs. Gaining popularity in the 1960s, PVC roofing has been one of the top trusted materials to protect the tops of commercial buildings for several reasons. But PVC roofing does have both pros and cons to consider.

Pros of PVC Roofing

Choosing the right type of roof for your commercial business can be challenging, and there are both pros and cons of PVC roofing. Let’s first explore some of the benefits of PVC roofing.

Waterproof

PVC roofing systems will help protect your commercial business against leaks! PVC roofing membranes are durable enough to withstand damp conditions, even on an ongoing basis.

Long Service Life

Another benefit of choosing a PVC roof is the long service life. Since PVC roofs are made with durability and strength in mind, you can get 20-plus years out of a properly installed PVC roofing system. Another pro is that maintenance during the service life of your PVC roof should be minimal! In the long run, this could save you a lot of money on repairs and maintenance.

Cons of PVC Roofing

Like with any big investment, looking at the pros and cons of PVC roofing is helpful in making the right decision that fits your needs and budget. There are quite a few benefits of PVC roofing, but what are the cons?

Cold Climate Temps

PVC roofing systems aren’t always optimal for use in colder climates. When the temperatures get too cold, PVC can become frail and even crack when walked on. It’s suitable for most of our service area in the Mid-Atlantic, but places further north may not benefit from its use.

Price

Suppose you are choosing a PVC roof for the first time and already have an existing roof made of other materials. In that case, you may need to completely remove the existing roof before the PVC roof can be installed, making the installation costs a little higher. This removal may not always be required, but it is something to keep in mind when considering a PVC roof.

Still Considering the Pros and Cons of PVC Roofing?

There are many factors to consider when choosing the right type of roofing system for your commercial business. The pros and cons of PVC roofing are no different. Although PVC roofing is a leading choice for many business owners due to its durability and low-maintenance upkeep, there are a few reasons that it may not be right for every commercial business, too.

The good news is that Heidler Roofing has over 60 years of experience in the industry and with commercial PVC roofing installation and maintenance! We bring our technical expertise, legendary service, high-quality product lines, professionally written estimates and proposals, and a commitment to safety to all our customers.

To discuss your specific commercial business roofing needs and determine if PVC roofing’s pros and cons are right for you, schedule an estimate with us today!