Safety is our number one core value
Safety is our number one core value
Blog / Roofing Systems
Both are reflective, heat-welded single-ply systems — but they are not interchangeable. Here is how to choose the right membrane for your building.
Roofing Systems
September 2026 · 6 min read · MVI Construction
If you own or manage a large low-slope building, there is a good chance your next roof will be a single-ply thermoplastic membrane. The two most common options — TPO and PVC — look almost identical from the ground: bright white sheets with hot-air welded seams. But they perform differently in the environments that matter most to industrial owners.
Thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) is one of the most widely specified commercial membranes today. Its white surface reflects solar heat, which helps reduce cooling loads on big conditioned buildings like warehouses, distribution centers and data centers.
Strong performance per dollar on large, simple roof areas
Heat-welded seams that create a monolithic surface
Flexible attachment: mechanically attached, fully adhered or induction-welded
A strong fit for distribution, warehousing and general commercial buildings
PVC membranes are known for resistance to chemicals, oils and grease. That makes PVC a natural choice for manufacturing plants, food processing, restaurants and any roof that sees exhaust or chemical exposure from rooftop equipment.
PVC can also be prefabricated. As a Duro-Last® Preferred Contractor, MVI installs membranes that are custom-fabricated for your specific roof in a factory setting, dramatically reducing the number of seams that have to be welded in the field — fewer seams on the roof means fewer potential leak points and a faster installation on an active site.
What comes out of your rooftop equipment? Grease, oils or chemicals point toward PVC.
How complex is the roof? Lots of curbs and penetrations favor prefabricated details.
What is the schedule? Prefabrication can shorten time on the roof.
What does the budget allow? TPO is often the more economical choice for large, simple roofs.
What warranty do you need? Both systems can qualify for manufacturer warranties when installed to standard.
There is no single “best” membrane — only the right one for your building, your operations and your budget. A roof survey is the fastest way to get a clear answer.
MVI installs both TPO and PVC systems for industrial, commercial and institutional clients. We will walk your roof, document conditions and recommend the system that fits — with a safety-first plan to install it.
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