What is a pvc roofing sheet?

Whether you are a homeowner, a contractor, or an architect, choosing the right roofing material is crucial for both quality and aesthetics.

In India’s varying climate, PVC roofing sheets have become a popular choice due to their durability and cost-effectiveness.

In this article, we will explore the features and benefits of PVC roofing sheets and see if they are the right choice for your next building project.

PVC roofing sheets are made from a strong plastic compound called Polyvinyl Chloride.

AttiRoof's PVC roofing sheets use high-quality PVC resin as the main material, along with UV stabilizers and other chemical additives. These sheets are also known as plastic steel tiles. They are produced with advanced technology, which includes a multi-layer co-extrusion process. This process adds an ASA anti-aging layer on the surface to increase weather resistance and color durability, while the bottom layer improves wear resistance and corrosion protection.

Understanding the typical thickness of a roof is important. A roof usually consists of multiple layers, including insulation, waterproofing, and the final roofing material.

For most residential roofs, the total thickness is between 12 to 18 inches, depending on the insulation and structural requirements.

How Thick is PVC Sheet for Roof?

PVC roofing sheets typically range in thickness from 1.2mm to 2.0mm, with some heavier options up to 3.0mm. The thickness of PVC sheets affects their durability, insulation ability, and impact resistance. For example, thicker PVC sheets offer better protection against punctures and help maintain a stable indoor temperature by reducing heat transfer from the outside.

AttiRoof’s APVC1050 Trapezoidal sheets are available in thicknesses of 1.5mm, 1.8mm, 2.0mm, 2.2mm, 2.5mm, 2.8mm, and 3.0mm. These sheets are ideal for use in workshops, warehouses, factories, and other high-corrosion environments like chemical plants, electroplating factories, and coastal buildings.

How PVC Sheet Thickness Fits into the Overall Roof Structure？

The thickness of PVC sheets plays a key role in the overall roof structure. In warmer climates, such as those in many parts of India, thicker PVC sheets are preferred because they reduce heat transfer:

1. In warm climates, intense solar radiation can make roof surfaces extremely hot. Thicker PVC sheets help reduce the amount of heat that passes through the roof, keeping the indoor space cooler. This can lower the use of air conditioning and save energy costs.

2. In warm regions, extreme weather conditions, such as high temperatures and strong UV rays, can speed up material aging. Thicker PVC sheets are more durable in such environments, resisting deformation and damage, and extending the roof’s lifespan.

3. Thicker sheets are stronger and can better withstand extreme weather conditions like strong winds and storms, ensuring the roof's structural safety.

In cooler regions, where the climate is milder, the thickness requirements for PVC sheets are different:

1. In cooler climates, buildings do not need excessive insulation because the external temperatures are not as high. In these cases, thinner PVC sheets can be used to reduce material costs while still offering sufficient protection and insulation.

2. In cooler areas, moisture resistance and thermal insulation may be more important. While thinner PVC sheets may be enough, it is essential to ensure they are thick enough to prevent condensation or cold air from entering, thus keeping indoor temperatures stable.

3. Using thinner PVC sheets in cooler regions can reduce both material and installation costs while still meeting basic roofing needs.

Tools and Materials Required for Installation

Installing a PVC roof requires specific tools and materials to ensure the roof is secure and long-lasting. Common tools include a heat welder for sealing seams, cutting tools for shaping the sheets, and fasteners specifically designed for PVC material.

An insulation layer is often placed beneath the PVC sheets to improve energy efficiency and provide a stable base.

How to Overcome Common Installation Challenges

When installing AttiRoof’s PVC roofing sheets, consider the following:

1. The purlin spacing should be ≤60-70 cm (recommended 660 mm). If the spacing is too wide, the resin tiles may deform due to heat.

2. Resin tiles should not be directly covered with metal materials like corrugated steel sheets, rock wool corrugated sheets, or insulation cotton (since metal tiles have high thermal conductivity, they can transfer heat directly to the resin tiles, causing deformation).

3. For tiles longer than 8 meters, overlap two tiles with an overlap length of about 44 cm to balance the load on the tiles. This reduces the thermal expansion and contraction ratio, extending the life of the resin tiles (long resin tiles may pull out the fixing screws due to thermal expansion and contraction).

4. When driving self-tapping screws, do not apply too much force. If possible, use screws with expansion holes or drill a hole before driving the screw (the drill bit should be 2-3 mm larger than the screw). Be sure to use waterproof caps to increase the load-bearing area and prevent rusting, which could lead to leaks (it is recommended to drive 4-6 self-tapping screws per square meter of resin tile).

Durability and Performance in Different Climates

PVC roofing sheets are made from highly weather-resistant materials, which give them exceptional durability in natural environments.

These sheets maintain their color and physical properties even when exposed to prolonged UV radiation, moisture, heat, cold, and impact.

Cost-Effectiveness and Energy Efficiency

One of the main advantages of PVC roofing is its cost-effectiveness. PVC roofing sheets cover a large area, are lightweight, and easy to install, reducing both transportation and installation costs.

Additionally, the reflective properties of PVC roofing improve energy efficiency by reflecting sunlight and reducing heat absorption, which lowers cooling costs. The smooth, dense surface of PVC sheets resists dust accumulation, featuring a "lotus leaf effect" where rainwater washes away dirt, keeping the roof clean and reducing maintenance.

Long Service Life of PVC Roofs

PVC roofs are built to last. When properly installed and maintained, a PVC roof can last up to 30 years or more. This longevity is due to the material's resistance to common roofing issues such as mold, mildew, and corrosion. For building owners in India, investing in a PVC roof means fewer replacements and repairs, resulting in long-term cost savings.

PVC roofing sheets are a versatile and durable solution for various roofing needs, especially in India’s climate.

They are affordable, long-lasting, and energy-efficient, making them an ideal choice for homeowners, contractors, and architects.

As a company specializing in custom roofing solutions, we are committed to providing high-quality PVC roofing materials and professional installation services.

Whether you are a homeowner looking to upgrade your roof or a contractor seeking reliable materials for a project, we are here to help you achieve your goals with confidence and precision.