Are Plastic Roof Tiles Any Good?
Are Plastic Roof Tiles Any Good?
Roof plastic (polymers) are the most resilient, dependable, and lightweight roofing materials available today.
Roof plastics are used in many forms of composite roofing and are becoming increasingly popular for residential roofs due to their benefits, such as fire resistance, simple installation and maintenance, sustainable construction, and weather resistance.
The most common roofing plastic is polypropylene (PP), followed by acrylic and PVC, with EPS being the most environmentally friendly.
While roof plastics are an excellent alternative to traditional roofing materials, they are not all created equal. Some roof plastics contain toxic, carcinogenic, or highly flammable chemicals that can pose health hazards if they leak onto the ground or soak into the soil.
Research has shown that these toxins can settle into the soil over time and may negatively affect nearby drinking water sources.
As a result of growing consumer demand, numerous manufacturers are producing roofing systems made with roof plastics that not only meet EPA standards but also contain recycled materials and are 100% recyclable.
Some manufacturers have even committed to reducing their carbon footprint by utilizing solar power to manufacture their products. The most common brands include GAF, CertainTeed, Kooltherm, and Tecta.
What’s A Plastic Roof Called?
Polycarbonate material is a thermoplastic or thermoplastic material that can be hardened by heat. The polymeric materials used in roofing are called polymers because they are polymers.
Roof plastics are often referred to as polyvinyl chloride, PC, PVC, polymer plastic roofs, plastic tiles, or simply PVT.
Examples of Roof Plastic Roofing Materials
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
This is the most common plastic used in roofing because of its low cost and ease of installation. It is an excellent choice for those who want to install a simple fastening system that is fire-resistant and relatively inexpensive. However, PVC has been found to be toxic to humans and can cause fatal maladies to those exposed to it.
Acrylic & Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene (ABS)
These are two of the most commonly used roofing plastics, providing fire resistance, durability, and energy efficiency.
A few common applications for ABS include: flashing for roof vents or skylights that cannot be attached directly to the roof itself; in-line attenuators and vapor barriers (such as those used in radiant heating systems); skylight trims or perimeter protection; air barrier material for potable water storage tanks.
Tecta ABS is 100% recyclable and will not release harmful gasses into the atmosphere for up to 100 years.
Polyethylene, Polypropylene & Polystyrene (EPS)
EPS is a leading alternative to asphalt and clay for roofing applications. EPS is a lightweight, porous material and does not absorb water, making it an excellent choice for environmentally conscious homeowners.
Fueled by the desire to incorporate more green construction products into their homes, homeowners are especially interested in using EPS as a roofing material because of its environmentally friendly nature and high R-value rating (3.39).
Other benefits include durability, superior insulation properties; low-cost installation; and lasting fire resistance.
How Long Do Plastic Roof Tiles Last?
One of the primary benefits of using roof plastics is their durability. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, roof plastics are designed to withstand exposure to ultraviolet radiation, high winds, and other weathering for up to 50 years or more.
No other residential roofing material can match this claim. It is estimated that a roof covered with plastic tiles could last up to 100 years. Consumers looking for the most durable, longest-lasting roofing system are often reluctant to consider plastic tile roofs.
