The Pros & Cons Of Vinyl Roofing | Pacific Coast Roofing

You may be familiar with vinyl siding, but did you know vinyl roofing products are also an option? More commonly referred to as PVC roofing, this material is made from two layers of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) that are reinforced by polyester. These layers are enforced using chemical treatments to further enhance the product’s strength and durability.

Is Vinyl Roofing the Best Choice For Your Bay Area Roof?

Vinyl roofing membranes are installed on top of the roofing substrate, typically on the insulation board, and underneath the final finish selection (shingles, metal, etc.). They’re designed to form a watertight barrier, protecting the roof substrate and building from water and moisture damage. However, they are best suited for flat roofs or roofs with a low slope. If you live in a home with a steep roof pitch, other materials are more suited to the job.

While known for being durable, easy to install, and long-lasting, PVC roofing is not the best choice for every roof. The more consumers understand about the product, including the pros and cons of vinyl roofing, the better choice they can make for their home or business.

As with any decision about roof repair, replacement, or roofing materials, you should always schedule a consultation or inspection with a licensed, experienced roofer.

The Pros Of Vinyl Roofing Membranes

Vinyl roofing membranes are an excellent choice for the right application. When they’re installed correctly, they last for 20 to 30 years, which is the typical lifespan of a well-maintained asphalt shingle roof. There are many reasons why PVC roof membranes are so popular.

Durability and strength

PVC is naturally a water-resistant and durable material. Its flexibility is another benefit since roofs move and flex due to temperature and humidity fluctuations or high winds. PVC roofing is chemically treated, providing additional resistance to damage from UV rays, bacteria, and fire (more on that next).

Their warrantied lifespan of between 20 and 30 years proves their durability, which aligns with the average length of time between roof replacements. Also, PVC roofs typically exceed the minimum strength requirements (200 lbs/inch) set by the American Society of Testing and Materials.

Lower installation costs

PVC roof membranes come in large rolls maneuvered into place and unrolled across the roofing substrate. They adhere to the roofing without penetrations, further increasing their waterproofing abilities. Installation methods depend on the roof’s substrate materials, but here in the Bay Area, most vinyl roofing is installed using a strong commercial-grade adhesive or via induction welding – where heat is used to adhere the PVC membrane to specifically-located metal plates.

Fire resistance

A material’s resistance to fire is increasingly important for California homeowners and their homeowner’s insurance carrier. PVC roof membranes are one of the most fire-resistant roofing materials on the market.

Energy efficiency

Their UV protective coatings are reflective, which reduces solar heat gain. They’re a popular choice in commercial buildings where heating and cooling costs can be high.

The Cons Of PVC Roofing Membranes

Some situations can diminish vinyl roofing performance. Some of the cons of vinyl roofing are:

Not made for pitched roofs

PVC roofing is designed for flat or barely sloped roofs. We often use them in commercial buildings, mid-century modern homes, or garages or patios with flat roofs or covers. They are not designed for roofs with a slope greater than 2 1/2.

Does not withstand consistently cold climates

This isn’t a dealbreaker in the Bay Area, where consistently freezing temperatures are rare. However, we don’t recommend using vinyl roofing if you have a vacation home in the mountains or in a state with more extreme winter temperatures.

Higher first-time costs

PVC roofing membranes are one of the more expensive products on the market, even if installation costs are more affordable. That said, their more durable lifespan tends to make up for that in lifetime costs.

Shrinking over time

Vinyl roofing membrane has a tendency to shrink over time. This can make it pull away or gap in places, leaving the roof more vulnerable to leaks and moisture issues. However, proper installation should protect you from this, as will annual roof inspections – particularly toward the end of your roof’s lifespan.

Schedule A Vinyl Roofing Quote From Pacific Coast Roofing

Are you ready to replace a flat roof for your home or business? Schedule a free, no-obligation quote from Pacific Coast Roofing. We’ve helped hundreds of Bay Area homeowners choose the best and longest-lasting roofing materials for their homes. We can help you determine whether a vinyl roof membrane is the right choice for you.

Eva Tucker

2022-11-11

After a storm, I asked Pacific coast roofing service to inspect our roof for any damage or leak. Brian was very responsive and provided an honest evaluation of the roof. My roof required minimal work, which was provided by their company. I highly recommend them to anyone here in El Sobrante who needs their roof to be inspected/repaired.

P Herron

2022-11-04

I reviewed Pacific Coast a few years ago when they installed our new roof. They did excellent work then and still do. We had a disastrous exterior fire in September most likely due to PG&E equipment. Our local fire department chopped a hole in our roof to make sure there was no heat or flames inside the house. We weren’t on the schedule but Brian promised to work us in and get the job done before the winter rains. He kept his promise sending his carpenter to replace the charred fascia and roofers to patch the hole. I will always enthusiastically recommend Pacific Coast Roofing without reservation!

Hariett Davis

2022-10-29

I tried two previous times to get my roof repaired with other companies without success. Pacific Coast Roofing was able to work very fast with my insurance and the inspector to get the roof repair approved. Scheduling the work was easy and fast after. The crew came in promptly as scheduled and worked quickly and thoroughly. They made sure all my requests were met.

Jonathan Morton

2022-10-11

The experience with Pacific Coast Roofing was nothing less than exceptional! We worked with Brian who was perfectly attentive throughout the entire process. He came out personally to check and they made temporary repairs until we could have the entire roof replaced. The crew performing the replacement was extremely fast. Very professional experience at a very reasonable price. We highly recommend them! Thank you, Brian and team!

Adriana Hammond

2022-09-27

We hired Pacific Coast Roofing to handle a large job with a mix of flat and shingled roofing on an old building. Brian was incredible. He worked around our schedule and finished in a timely manner. Very happy with the finished product. They were upfront with their pricing and kept in touch when additional repairs were needed. I would highly recommend this company for any roofing needs.

Bruce Gill

2022-09-14

Pacific Coast Roofing and Brian were great. They were very communicative and they even helped me file the insurance claim. In addition, Brian was present during the whole process of repairs. I love the roof they installed on my house and would recommend them to others. The install crew was timely, professional and did a great job of cleaning up afterwards. Overall, I had a 5/5 experience and will definitely go back to them for future repairs, if needed.

Sylvia Dominguez

2022-08-23

I cannot express enough how wonderful Brian and Pacific Coast Roofing were to work with. They offered exceptional service in the installation and repairs while coordinating with our insurance company for the claim following a storm. Brian went above and beyond for any queries or problems we had. If you're looking for a roofing contractor in El Sobrante, I'd strongly recommend them, esp. Brian.

Davian Cook

2022-07-23

I cannot say enough about the dedication that Brian put in to inspect our roof. He had several adversities to make his appointment with us, but he still made the effort to go out of his way just to help us. He exceeded our expectations. He was very personable and polite. His knowledge about the industry is superb and his personality is remarkable.

Catherine Smith

2022-07-11

Brian of Pacific Coast Roofing was positively wonderful to work with and he made sure everything was completed to perfection every step of the way. He helped me choose the best roofing material, shingle color, gutter color, provided subcontractors to paint and repair the interior damage, replace chimney caps, and everything that needed to be done to restore my home in excellent condition after suffering damage. I would recommend them to anyone. They exude integrity and honesty in their dealings, both with the homeowner and insurance company. They made an otherwise frustrating situation into a positive experience, and I know they will stand by the work they performed.

steve taugner

2022-06-07

I rarely leave reviews but I have nothing but good things to say about Brian and this company. If there is anything negative at all its you cant reach them by phone. The work looks great and they were prompt, courteous and did a good clean up. I will use them again.