How Much Does a PVC Roof Cost?
Last Updated: May 24, 2022
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Single ply roofing membranes are longer-lasting, better-performing alternatives to traditional flat or low sloped built up roofs (BUR) made from tar, asphalt, and roofing felt. One of the best single ply roofing materials, PVC (polyvinyl chloride), is very similar to the vinyl used to make siding, fencing, and other building products. Like them, PVC roofing is a popular choice due to its low-maintenance durability and long-term value. Below you'll find more information about PVC roofs, including how much they cost to install.
PVC Roofing Average Costs #
- PVC roofing generally costs $4.00 to $7.00 per square foot installed, but could be as much as $8.00 to $12.00 or more per square foot. For an average sized 1,500 square foot roof, that works out to a total PVC roofing cost of $6,000 to $18,000.
- While certain types of PVC roofing material can be installed over the existing roof, the old roof may need to be removed and disposed of at an additional cost of $1.00 to $2.00 per square foot.
The actual cost of PVC roofing may vary based on your location, the materials selected, the complexity of the installation, and other factors.
An Overview of PVC Roofing Systems #
PVC roofs originated in 1960s Europe, where a long-lasting, cost-effective roofing material was needed for post-War construction efforts. Vinyl roofs today compromise nearly two-thirds of the European single ply roofing commercial roofing market and are capturing an ever-large market share of the U.S. commercial roofing market.
But PVC is certainly suitable for non-commercial roofs as well. The same reasons that make vinyl roofing a top choice for hotels, shopping malls, and office towers also make it a great option for your home. Those reasons include:
- Waterproof: The chemical composition of PVC makes it impervious to water. When individual panels are installed, they're heat welded to form a single, waterproof membrane that's meant to withstand even pooling water.
- Long-Lasting: Compared to built up roofs and other types of single ply roof materials, which usually have to be replaced after ten or fifteen years, PVC is expected to last twenty to thirty years with little or no maintenance.
- Tough: There's pretty much no type of abuse that a PVC roofing system can't handle. It resists impacts, punctures, winds, precipitation, and fire, provides an excellent barrier against chemicals and other harmful substances, and can offer up to 80% solar reflectivity.
- Low Lifecycle Cost: While the initial cost of installing a PVC roof may be more than another type of flat roof, PVC roofing membrane is one of the least costly in the long run. That's because it has a long service life and can help to slash your cooling costs by reducing the amount of heat your home absorbs.
- Options: Many homeowners choose a white vinyl roof due to its reflective properties, but PVC roofing is additionally available in black, tan, grey, cream, and other colors. It can even be manufactured in a pattern that resembles traditional shingles from afar. You can also choose a PVC roof in a number of different thicknesses, providing you with more protection if you need it. And when it comes to installation, choose from a membrane that is mechanically fastened, fully adhered, or ballasted.
Video: PVC Membrane Roofing Installation in 5 Minutes #
Watch the video below to see a time-lapse of a PVC membrane installation on a flat patio roof:
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