PVC Roofing
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) roofing is a single-ply roofing system that is made of a
thermoplastic material that is reinforced with polyester or fiberglass scrim. It is known
for its durability and energy efficiency.
Pros:
PVC roofing is highly resistant to UV rays, ozone, and chemicals, making it an excellent
choice for commercial flat roofs in harsh environments.
It has a high reflectivity rating, which can help to reduce energy costs by reflecting
sunlight and heat away from the building.
PVC roofing is highly durable and can last for up to 30 years with minimal maintenance.
Cons:
PVC roofing can be vulnerable to mechanical damage and punctures from sharp objects,
which can compromise the integrity of the roofing system.
It can be expensive to install, especially if there are complex roof configurations or if the
old roofing system needs to be removed first.
PVC roofing can be difficult to repair if it is damaged, and it may require specialized
skills and equipment to do so.
TPO Roofing
Thermoplastic olefin (TPO) roofing is another single-ply roofing system that is made of a
blend of polypropylene and ethylene-propylene rubber. It is a popular choice for
commercial flat roofs because of its affordability and energy efficiency.
Pros:
TPO roofing is highly reflective, which can help to reduce energy costs by reflecting
sunlight and heat away from the building.
It is resistant to UV rays, ozone, and chemicals, making it an excellent choice for
commercial flat roofs in harsh environments.
TPO roofing is relatively easy to install, and it can be heat-welded together to form a
seamless roofing system.
Cons:
TPO roofing can be vulnerable to punctures from sharp objects, which can compromise
the integrity of the roofing system.
It may not be as durable as other roofing systems and may require more frequent
maintenance and repairs.
TPO roofing can be difficult to repair if it is damaged, and it may require specialized
skills and equipment to do so.
EPDM Roofing
Ethylene propylene diene terpolymer (EPDM) roofing is a single-ply roofing system that
is made of a synthetic rubber material. It is known for its durability and ease of
installation.
Pros:
EPDM roofing is highly durable and can last for up to 40 years with minimal
maintenance.
It is resistant to UV rays, ozone, and chemicals, making it an excellent choice for
commercial flat roofs in harsh environments.
EPDM roofing is relatively easy to install, and it can be installed in large sheets to
minimize the number of seams and potential leak points.
Cons:
EPDM roofing can be vulnerable to punctures from sharp objects, which can compromise
the integrity of the roofing system.
It has a lower reflectivity rating than other roofing systems, which may result in higher
energy costs for the building.
EPDM roofing can be difficult to repair if it is damaged, and it may require specialized
skills and equipment to do so.
Built-Up Roofing (BUR)
Built-up roofing (BUR) is a traditional roofing system that consists of multiple layers of
roofing felt and asphalt. It is known for its durability and affordability.
Pros:
BUR roofing is highly durable and can last for up to 25 years with minimal maintenance.
It is an affordable roofing option, especially when compared to some of the newer singleply roofing systems.
BUR roofing is relatively easy to repair, and it can be patched or resealed as needed.
Cons:
BUR roofing can be heavy and may require additional structural support to accommodate
its weight.
It is not as energy-efficient as some of the newer roofing systems, and it may result in
higher energy costs for the building.
BUR roofing can be messy and labor-intensive to install, and it may require specialized
skills and equipment to do so.
Conclusion:
When choosing a commercial flat roofing system for the Canadian prairies, it is important
to consider the unique weather and environmental conditions of the region. Each roofing
system has its own advantages and disadvantages, and it is important to weigh these
factors carefully before making a final decision. PVC roofing, TPO roofing, EPDM
roofing, and BUR roofing are all viable options for commercial flat roofs, and the choice
ultimately depends on the specific needs and budget of the building owner.
Possible Health Dangers of Flat Commercial Roofing Systems Previously Listed
While flat commercial roofing systems can provide a number of benefits, they can also
pose certain health risks, especially during installation or maintenance. Here are some
possible health dangers associated with the flat commercial roofing systems previously
listed:
PVC Roofing:
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