As a roofing contractor, you don’t always get to choose which single-ply membrane you’re working with. But when the choice is up to you, we know you’ll choose a membrane that both protects your customer’s investment and minimizes your time and labor costs.

That’s why polyvinyl chloride — PVC — is such a popular choice. EverGuard^® PVC, for example, offers:

• Protection against an array of man-made and environmental threats to the roof’s integrity
• Versatility with a wide array of attachment methods and use cases for complex roofs and mission-critical structures such as data centers and hospitals
• Convenience that starts with easy installation and extends to a complete line of pre-fabricated accessories

How PVC Protects

PVC formulations typically include additives that provide resistance to biological growth (typically mold) and UV radiation that would otherwise age and harden the membrane.

Recent UV-based GAF testing, in accordance with ASTM protocols, revealed that the EverGuard^® PVC formula helps the membrane exceed ASTM G155 weathering standards by more than seven times at 2 times the irradiance.*

Mold, of course, causes more than messy roofs. Dark staining caused by biological growth can reduce the roof’s reflectivity and energy efficiency, as well as create potentially damaging “hot spots” on the membrane itself as dark mold absorbs heat. Effective biocide additives, like those used in EverGuard^® PVC, help reduce staining, making the roof easier to clean, and preserve solar reflectivity that can potentially reduce cooling energy costs.^†

PVC roofing membranes offer enhanced fire protection, classified by UL in accordance with ANSI/UL 790 Class A systems, when tested in accordance with ASTM E108.

And finally, PVC is typically eligible for some of the longest guarantees in commercial roofing. Qualifying EverGuard^® PVC roofs, for instance, are eligible for guarantees up to 30 years.*‡

PVC Offers Versatility

Depending on the location, use case, and budget of the roofing project, PVC can be installed mechanically (plates and fasteners) or with cold adhesives. Better yet, EverGuard™ PVC adhesives include a wide range of application methods, from bucketed adhesives like EverGuard PVC Quick-Lay Adhesive to spray canisters containing EverGuard^® PVC Quick Spray Adhesive for ultimate versatility.

For true versatility, keep in mind that PVC KEE is also an option for structures demanding enhanced durability. KEE is a high-performance copolymer known for its flexibility, UV resistance, thermal stability, and protection against chemical exposure.^§ It’s primarily used as a plasticizer. Unlike the liquid plasticizers used in traditional PVC, KEE terpolymers are solid, which prevents the plasticizer from migrating out of the membrane over time. PVC KEE is often specified in applications that call for increased protection against chemicals such as grease, animal fats, and jet fuel.^§

And Cost-saving Convenience

Its inherent flexibility often makes PVC (or PVC KEE) the ideal solution for complex roofs with multiple penetrations or intricate contours with complex geometries. Less wrestling with the material means more productivity. And for contractors who would rather not spend time hand-fabricating corners, t-joint patches, pitch pockets and so on, GAF offers a complete line of EverGuard^® PVC prefabricated accessories that help installation efficiency.

Finally, PVC is typically easy to repair. Known for its extremely strong seams, PVC when properly cleaned and primed will accept welded, adhered, or self-adhered repairs. To make those repairs even more convenient, GAF offers a range of single-ply “right-sized repair” products including a portable backpack welder and convenient aerosol grab-and-go cleaners.