Thanks to their low slope, commercial roofing systems are notoriously leak-prone. Remember: water tends to pool on flat roof surfaces, increasing the risk of leaks. That’s why it’s important to choose a roofing material that can resist standing water and handle your area’s climate.
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) flat roofing is one of the most widely used commercial roofing materials in Florida for a reason. What makes it an ideal commercial roofing material?
Cooling costs comprise a large chunk of small businesses’ electricity bill, which is why it makes financial sense to install a light-colored PVC flat roof. The closer a shade is to white, the more heat it can reflect, and the lower the strain is on your HVAC system. And, if you’re looking to go green, a PVC roof replacement would be a smart choice. Since PVC roofing is 100% recyclable, discarded roofing membranes won’t end up in landfills.
Excess weight load won’t be a problem for a PVC roof replacement. The American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) has set the minimum breaking strength for roofing membranes at 200 pounds per inch, but the load-bearing capacity of the average PVC flat roof is well above that at 350 pounds per inch. To ensure your PVC flat roof will be able to handle excess weight load, only an experienced roofing contractor should handle its installation.
Important note: while PVC flat roofing is more resistant to excess weight load than other flat roofing materials, it has, more or less, the same maintenance needs. For instance, you shouldn’t leave standing water on your PVC roof for more than two days. Otherwise, stagnant water will seep into your roof, causing leaks. And, over time, the added weight load from standing water can even damage your flat roof, regardless of how durable it is. Remember: routine maintenance is a must if you want to keep your roof in good condition.
Total Roof Services Corp., a company with nearly a decade of experience, offers a wide range of professional roofing services, including commercial roofing and storm damage roof repair services. To schedule a free consultation, call us at (407) 495-4151.