Resistant to a wide range of solutions and chemicals, this type of single-ply membrane is considered to be the thermoplastic membrane with the best chemical resistance. In some cases, applying a new liquid waterproofing membrane over an old layer can be done if the existing coating is in good condition. However, proper surface preparation and adhesion testing are crucial to ensure the effectiveness of the new waterproofing system. Liquid waterproofing membranes, also known as liquid applied membranes (LAM), are a versatile and seamless solution used in construction to protect against water infiltration, as their name states. By choosing the right geomembrane specifications, industries can ensure long-term performance and environmental safety. This solution-diffusion mechanism is fundamental to advanced filtration processes like reverse osmosis and gas separation. The separation is driven by a gradient, such as pressure or concentration, which compels the molecules to move through the dense polymer film. Because this process can be slow, the dense selective layer is often made exceptionally thin and deposited onto a more porous support structure to improve the overall flow rate. Are you interested in learning more about using AGRU HDPE liners in environmental applications? It retains high flexibility while maintaining impermeability, and offers a malleable film to work with to conform to changes in the ground and its other surroundings. To keep the cool roof benefits of a PVC roofing membrane, you’re going to have to clean the roof every 2 years or so. If you want it to stay reflective, you have to keep the roof clean, they’ve done studies. The cost of any roof installation depends on constantly fluctuating material prices and local labor costs. The upfront cost of PVC membranes is higher than that of traditional materials like asphalt or metal. As mentioned above, light membranes can also be energy-efficient and essential in sunny regions. PVC membrane roofing materials, available on the US market nowadays, come in various forms.
Best Liquid Waterproofing Membrane for foundations and basement

Where to Buy Geomembrane Liners?
However, it’s worth understanding that manufacturers use different formulations to produce PVC membranes. Not all PVC membranes are compatible with one another and won’t always weld to each other. Though quick installation indoor pools with customizable water depth tends to be more expensive than some of the other options, so many factors impact the cost of a flat roof replacement that it’s difficult to pinpoint a precise price. The other two most common types of single-ply membranes are EPDM and TPO. To learn more about pvc liner and other liner materials, contact Western Environmental Liner today.
The Cons of PVC Roofing Membranes
These membranes are known for their excellent puncture resistance, tear strength, and dimensional stability. They are also resistant to chemicals, UV radiation, and biological degradation. The thickness of HDPE liners can vary significantly depending on their intended use, spanning a range from 30 to 120 mil (0.8–3 mm). Within this spectrum, a thickness of approximately 1.5mm (or about 60 mil) is commonly preferred for a majority of applications, striking an optimal balance between durability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness. High-density polyethylene (HDPE) geomembrane material, a premium type of plastic liner crafted from high-density polyethylene, stands as a testament to durability and resistance.
Applications:
PVC is also exceptionally fire resistant when compared to a TPO membrane (thermoplastic polyolefin), which is its main competitor as a white “cool roof” membrane. The thicker the PVC roof membrane is, the longer the roof can be expected to last (everything else being equal). We have handpicked some options to help you choose the most suitable choice for your project. However, we remind you that each project is unique, and you should consider all the aspects, such as project needs, budget and environmental conditions.
Environmental Impact of PVC Roofing
PVC membrane liners come in a variety of colors, patterns, and textures, allowing pool owners to create a unique and personalized look for their pool. Whether you prefer a sleek, modern design or a more natural, textured appearance, PVC membrane liners can be customized to suit your preferences. Conduct electrical leak testing (for conductive geomembranes).Verify seams and liner integrity before filling with water or waste.Hiring experienced geomembrane installation teams ensures long-lasting performance. Seams are welded using a geomembrane welding machine to ensure a watertight seal.Hot wedge welding and extrusion welding are common techniques.Testing is performed to ensure seam strength and waterproofing. This technique uses a strong electric field to draw a charged polymer solution into extremely fine fibers, often with diameters in the nanometer range. However, the roof frame must be solid enough to support new material and insulation and withstand potential foot traffic during installation. Billions of square feet of Sarnafil membrane have performed with distinction over the past 50 years in climates of every description. Sarnafil “G” series membranes are a unique fiberglass-reinforced, single-ply membrane. Specifically designed for adhered and loose laid systems, they deliver exceptional dimensional stability and a low coefficient of thermal expansion and contraction to extend the service life of the roof. What are the main differences between PVC and TPO membranes for roofing?
- When selecting liners for landfills, ponds, or construction sites, having the right material can help.
- The soft and flexible nature of the PVC makes it easy to install on new or existing tanks.
- Liquid applied waterproofing membranes are the kind of membranes that come in the form of liquid that can be sprayed or brushed onto the surface.
- Additionally, some PVC membranes come with fleece backing, which enhances durability by providing extra resistance to punctures and physical damage.
- The thickness of HDPE liners can vary significantly depending on their intended use, spanning a range from 30 to 120 mil (0.8–3 mm).
Sikaplan Membranes
As another example, PVC is suitable for low-slope and flat roofs but isn’t viable for roofs with higher pitches. PVC is highly impermeable and trusted for use as a barrier liner for fluids ranging from fresh water, to oils and chemicals, to raw waste. PVC can also be prefabricated in very large sheets (e.g. 200,000 sq. ft), and preformed for the best fit - see our Large Pond Liners page for more information. A PVC roofing membrane has plasticizers added to the material when it’s manufactured so it stays flexible and easy to work with. A polyester or fiberglass reinforcement fabric mat is sandwiched between two layers of plasticized PVC to produce the final product.
What is a Liquid Waterproofing Membrane? (And When to Use Them!)
If a roof (or a section of a roof) has a slope of less than 3/12, it’s considered a low-slope roof. While asphalt shingles can technically be installed on a roof pitch as low as 2/12, and the building code allows it, it’s a good idea to go with a single-ply system on a roof pitch under 3-in-12. Here are a few important things you should know about a PVC roofing membrane.
Thickness Guarantee Versus Standard Industry Thickness
PVC was used primarily in projects where maximum protection was necessary, especially against leaks, including when installing flat roofs of cottages, townhouses, and country houses. Today, anti-leak protection is the first thing that comes to mind when discussing PVC or any other synthetic membrane, like TPO or EPDM. Initially installed on large-scale commercial roofs, this material gained popularity for its lightweight, waterproof, and other significant properties for US business owners. By the 1980s, PVC membranes became more widely used, especially in Europe and North America. Sarnafil “G” membranes developed in the ‘60s, were the first fiberglass-reinforced, single-ply membranes in the industry.
PVC Membrane Waterproofing
Polymer-based waterproof membranes are engineered to prevent water penetration, protecting structures from moisture damage, mold growth, and structural deterioration. In this blog, I'll explore the various types of polymers commonly used in these membranes, highlighting their unique properties, applications, and benefits. A geomembrane layer refers to the thickness of the geomembrane material that is installed as a protective barrier in a particular area. Depending on the specific application, the geomembrane layer can vary in thickness and material type, with some projects requiring multiple layers to ensure maximum protection. No contractor wants to get a call that the roof they installed has failed. No matter what the reason, all parties involved usually take the blame. The weight of a geomembrane varies depending on its thickness and material. Ü The blown film process requires the film bubble to be inflated, and has certain requirements for the strength of the resin melt. The flat extrusion process does not have a film bubble inflation process, and the requirements for the resin melt strength and resin quality are reduced. Though the lifespan of PVC roofs is a hardy 20 or more years, it’s worth understanding that you will likely face additional repairs once the roof gets to be about ten years old.
