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The Benefits of PVC Membranes

The optimum walkable PVC membrane can have significant advantages over other types of waterproofed flooring materials. PVC membranes are extremely durable—even when exposed to heavy traffic and severe weather conditions. They won’t peel, chip, delaminate or crack, and will outlast painted surfaces by years. PVC membranes offer varying degrees of slip resistance as required for the particular project and consequently are considered “safer” than wood or concrete surfaces that become slippery when wet. They also excel in terms of ease of installation. In contrast to coated systems that require frequent recoating and maintenance, PVC membranes need only regular cleaning. “The main considerations we look at when selecting a product like this are durability and affordability. We need something that will be reliable and lasting,” says Dave Robbins, RA, president, Architecture Collaborative, Inc., Ellicott City, Maryland, who has used PVC membranes on many projects. “We also need it to be relatively easy to install, and PVC membranes are much easier to install and less expensive than most walking surfaces. And since the entire surface is walkable, access is not limited as it is in paver-type roofs.”

PVC membranes come in a wide variety of patterns, textures, and colors.

Waterproof outdoor roof deck and flooring systems consist of pre-manufactured PVC sheet membranes that are applied to wood or concrete deck surfaces. Because they’re pre-manufactured, they can be fabric-reinforced to provide added stability and multi-directional strength.

While waterproofing is the most important attribute of a PVC membrane and appearance is a secondary consideration, membranes come in a wide variety of patterns, colors, and textures geared to diverse needs and budgets. (Figure 3) Because roof deck and flooring membranes are manufactured in an array of contemporary colors, textures, and patterns, they offer the potential to create complimentary or contrasting borders, and even custom design work. Says Robbins, “The availability of finish colors provides a design opportunity not found in other roofing products.”

If a walkable membrane is to be specified for a project, there are several determining characteristics to look for in order to ensure high quality, durability, and long-term performance. The membrane should be fabric reinforced. It should also have slip-resistant texture. An effective PVC membrane will also have UV and heat stabilizers. “Warnings against the effects of UV rays on the skin are common,” says Ogilvie. “After a period of years these same rays will affect outdoor products too. To minimize this, manufacturers add UV screens and stabilizers to prolong the life of PVC materials. These screens are designed to resist the potential of cracking, embrittlement, and discoloration of the vinyl.” In addition, the membrane should incorporate mildew inhibitors, be fire-retardant, resistant to chemicals, and meet all building code standards.