PVC vs. TPO
| PVC | TPO | |
|---|---|---|
| Grease, oils, many chemicals | Better resistance | Less resistant |
| Seams | Heat-welded | Heat-welded |
| Cost | Usually higher | Usually lower |
| Best fit | Restaurants, food processing, chemical or oil exposure | Most warehouses, retail and offices |
General characteristics; performance depends on the specific membrane.
Where we recommend PVC
- Restaurant roofs and restaurant bays in strip centers with kitchen exhaust. See strip mall roofing.
- Commercial kitchens in schools, churches and other large buildings
- Industrial buildings with oil, solvent or chemical exhaust. See warehouse and industrial roofing.
- Roof areas where a TPO membrane has failed early around exhaust
PVC and KEE blends
PVC membranes use plasticizers to stay flexible. Some manufacturers blend in KEE (ketone ethylene ester), a polymer meant to keep the membrane flexible and chemical resistant over time. Formulations vary, so we match the product to what's coming out of your exhaust fans and confirm compatibility with the manufacturer.
Details around kitchen exhaust
- Grease containment at every exhaust fan
- Curbs flashed full height with welded PVC flashing
- Walk pads to service fans and rooftop units
- Regular checks around the fans, which can be part of a maintenance package
PVC and TPO don't weld together
The two membranes are different chemistries and won't heat-weld to each other. If part of your roof is TPO and part needs PVC, the transition has to be detailed on purpose, and we plan it in the quote.
PVC repairs
Older PVC can lose flexibility, so we test whether it still welds before patching. Seams, punctures and flashings are repaired with welded PVC. We offer same-day response in almost every case, and we answer leak and storm calls 24/7.
We're certified with Johns Manville, GAF, CertainTeed, Owens Corning and Atlas. Manufacturer NDL (no-dollar-limit) warranties, such as a 20-year NDL, are available depending on the product and the warranty purchased, and are issued after the manufacturer's own inspection.
Compare TPO, EPDM and coatings, or go back to commercial roofing.
Commercial warranty: a workmanship warranty from 10 years up to lifetime, depending on the job, plus 10- to 20-year NDL (no-dollar-limit) manufacturer warranties. Manufacturer coverage depends on the product and brand, and on the project qualifying for that manufacturer's program. We put the exact warranty for your roof in writing.
Certified, with 30 years installing every major roofing brand, a family roofing business going back 75 years, and over $80 million in completed roofing projects. 5.0 stars on Google at all three of our offices.
Request a free inspection or call (817) 733-9228. Small repairs are welcome too.