PVC is excellent for flat roofs. It has strong seams, is very chemical resistant and the light colors help keep your building cool. One critical element for a PVC roof is drainage.
Drainage increases the lifespan of PVC roofing membranes. Rainwater is the enemy. It lodges on uneven surfaces, puts pressure on the structure below and wears down the membrane prematurely. Freezing water will also do a lot of damage during a cold winter. At Chaffee Roofing, we get plenty of inquiries about PVC roofing. Clients want to increase the lifespan of their PVC roof and how to go about it. ‘How’s your drainage?’ is one of our first questions.
Let’s take a closer look at drainage and how it affects the lifespan of PVC roofing membranes.
The problem of bad drainage
When water lodges on a PVC roof, problems begin. You need to get rain in addition to melting snow and ice off a PVC roof. The alternative is only bad news. Inadequate drainage puts pressure on seams and the structure below. Surface water freezes during the colder months and PVC cracks and shatters in such conditions, drastically reducing the lifespan of the roof. At Chaffee Roofing our qualified and very experienced team plan your PVC project from start to finish, with drainage being a top priority. We will work with you, getting the installation or repair process right from day one.
Ponding can do a lot of damage
Anyone who has a PVC roof knows the great qualities of the membrane. It is strong and durable, and if you care for it, the membranes will last for over 20 years. Ponding, however, can do a lot of damage and reduce the lifespan of the roof. Ponding is when rainwater gathers on a flat roof, and poor drainage causes this to happen. The weight of the water puts pressure on the roof structure. The ponding water can also cause the membrane to deteriorate and break down prematurely. This can create holes and openings in your roof system, especially when the UV components begin to degrade.
As a rule of thumb, you want 90% of water off your roof within 48 hours of a rain event.
Have a maintenance plan and stick to it
Bad drainage causes problems, but you can take steps to solve them. A simple maintenance plan will help increase the lifespan of your PVC roof.
At Chaffee Roofing we recommend:
- Checking the roof regularly for ponding.
- Adding additional drains to the roof system if ponding is excessive.
- Having the drains professionally cleaned.
- Ensuring downspouts and drain pipes are not blocked and rainwater can flow freely away.
- Schedule regular roof inspections with a roofing contractor.
In the end, looking after your PVC roof is key to getting full value from your investment.
Call Chaffee Roofing
At Chaffee Roofing, we know all about PVC roofing membranes. Our fully trained staff will install or repair your PVC roof to the highest standards. We have advice and service that will help you maintain a PVC roof to ensure a long lifespan.