A debate that comes up is whether to install a PVC roofor an EPDM roof. Both flat roof systems have been around for a similar amount of time, and have unique attributes that are beneficial or detrimental, based on how your building is used.
A PVC Versus EPDM comparison chart is below.
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PVC | EPDM | Advantage | |
Years Used as Roofing Product | Over 50 Years, but formula has changed dramatically over time | Over 40 Years | EPDM, since formula has been more consistent. |
Base Product | Vinyl / Plastics | Synthetic Rubber | Neutral |
Color | White, Gray, Tan | Black + White at price premium | PVC |
Temperature Impact on Roof | Cools Roof | Heats roof (Unless white) | PVC if lots of HVAC and other rooftop equipment. EPDM if minimal rooftop units. *EPDM melts small amounts of snow if black EPDM is exposed. Once roof is completely snow covered, doesn’t help at all.) |
Seaming technology | Heat Welded | After 1980, 3” or 6” Seam Tape.Before 1980, liquid adhesives | PVC |
Thicknesses | .036 to .090 | .045 to .090 | Neutral |
Reinforced | Always Reinforced (Older non-reinforced systems could shatter) | Reinforced or Non-Reinforced | Neutral |
Puncture Resistance | OK to Good, depending on thickness and manufacturer | Good to excellent, depending on thickness | EPDM |
Chemical Resistance | Excellent | Poor | PVC |
Environmental Impact | Poor – is actually banned in some countries | Moderate | EPDM |
Slippery With Moisture | Yes | Yes – Moderate | EPDM |
Known Problems |
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| Depends on building! |