Welded membrane for demanding roofs
PVC roofing
PVC is a heat-welded single-ply that costs more than TPO or EPDM and earns it on roofs with grease, chemicals, fume exhaust or steady foot traffic.
- Heat-welded
- Resists grease and chemicals
- Fewer weak spots at details
What PVC roofing is
PVC roofing is polyvinyl chloride in a reinforced sheet, plasticized so it stays flexible. Like TPO, seams are welded with hot air, so the roof becomes one sheet of plastic. Unlike TPO, PVC carries a higher plasticizer content, which gives it good flexibility at details and a different chemical profile.
Expect 20 to 30 years from a well-maintained PVC roof. Replacement pricing is from $11 per sq ft.
Where PVC earns its higher price
The best-known advantage is resistance to grease, animal fats, oils and many chemicals. Roofs over restaurant kitchens, food processing, labs and some manufacturing lines are the classic fit. A membrane that swells or softens under exhaust fan discharge is a leak waiting to happen.
PVC is also strong around odd shapes. Pre-formed corners, pipe boots and curb wraps weld right into the sheet, and field-fabricated flashings are easier to make than with some other membranes. That is helpful on rooftops crowded with units, curbs and conduit.
Attachment options
Mechanically fastened
Fasteners along the seam hold the sheet to the deck. Economical on larger areas where wind loads are within the system rating.
Fully adhered
Adhesive bonds the sheet to insulation. A smoother, quieter finish, and it suits roofs with frequent traffic or tall parapets.
Ballasted
Used less often in Ontario retrofits, mostly where the structure was designed for the weight.
Pros and cons
Chemical and grease resistance
Stands up to cooking exhaust and industrial discharge better than most single-ply membranes.
Strong welded seams
Welds can be tested and, when made properly, hold through repeated temperature swings.
Good for crowded rooftops
Pre-molded accessories and easy flashing details suit roofs with many penetrations.
Higher material cost
It is usually the most expensive of the single-ply options, so it makes sense where its strengths are used.
Fire and environmental questions
PVC has a different environmental profile from other membranes and some owners prefer to avoid it. Ask for the product data sheet if this matters for your building.
Needs skilled welders
The sheet is forgiving but poor welds are still poor welds. Ask how seams are tested.
How PVC is repaired
Identify the membrane
PVC and TPO look alike. A repair with the wrong material will not weld, so we confirm the sheet type before cutting anything.
Clean the surface
Grease, dirt and old sealant are removed back to a surface that can fuse.
Weld a patch
A rounded-corner patch of matching PVC is welded over the damage and probed along its edges.
Check the exhaust and drains
If grease or standing water caused the damage, we tell you so the fix lasts.
PVC pricing
| Item | Starting price |
|---|---|
| PVC roof replacement | from $11 per sq ft |
| Flashing repair or replacement | from $500 per repair |
| Commercial roof inspection and report | from $450 per roof |
Starting prices in CAD before 13% HST, based on typical Ontario contractor rates (mostly Toronto and the GTA). The final price depends on roof size, access, the layers to remove, the membrane, drains and flashings, and is confirmed in your written quote.
PVC questions
Is PVC worth the extra cost on an office building?
Often not, if there is no grease or chemical exposure and little foot traffic. TPO or EPDM may do the same job for less. PVC pays off where its resistance is actually needed.
Can PVC be welded to an old TPO roof?
No. The two materials do not fuse reliably. A tie-in needs a mechanical termination or a separation layer. We confirm which membrane you have first.
Does PVC suit a rooftop patio?
It can, with a protection layer and pavers or pedestals. It is a common choice for rooftop deck waterproofing on commercial and condo buildings.
Leak, damage or an old flat roof?
Send a few details and photos. We reply by email with next steps and a written quote.