The raw materials used in PVC roofing tiles directly determine the tiles’ lifespan, as well as their toughness and resistance to aging. To be honest, when choosing roofing tiles, many people focus solely on the unit price and completely overlook the specific types of materials used in their construction.
I’ve been working in this industry for over a decade, and I’ve seen far too many cases where corners were cut to save money. Those roofs lasted less than four years before developing serious problems such as chalking, cracking, and delamination—and in the end, the cost of repairs far exceeded the money saved initially.
Raw Materials for PVC Roofing TilesWhat are some examples?
The main raw material used in production is PVC resin, which accounts for the largest proportion of the total formulation. There are significant differences in molecular weight and thermal stability among resins produced by different manufacturers and under different brand names.
High-quality resin pellets are white and uniform in color, with excellent flow properties, resulting in roof tiles with a very smooth surface; low-quality resin tends to yellow and contains black spots and impurities, and will warp or deform when exposed to sunlight.
When it comes to additives, calcium carbonate filler, stabilizers, UV inhibitors, and lubricants all need to be added. The more calcium carbonate you add, the lower the cost, but the tiles become very brittle. When it gets cold in winter, even a light tap can cause them to crack. That’s why, even among tiles of the same price, their feel and weight differ—that’s where the difference lies.
The Key to the Durability of PVC Roofing Tiles
StabilizerThis stuff can really save the day. Without it, PVC would start to crumble after about half a year when exposed to light and heat. Organic tin is indeed very effective, but it’s quite expensive; calcium-zinc is more environmentally friendly, though it’s slightly less durable in the long run. To save a little money, many small factories use only calcium-zinc alloy, resulting in roof tiles that become as brittle as cookies after just two or three years—they crack at the slightest bend.
UV stabilizers determine how many years a roof tile can be exposed to the sun before it begins to show noticeable discoloration. I’ve personally seen products made with low-quality UV stabilizers—in less than a year, the color had turned white and developed a powdery texture. Customers came straight to our doorstep to argue and confront us.
The ratio of raw materials in PVC roofing tiles, as well as their quality, ultimately comes down to a balancing act between cost and quality. When selecting roofing tiles, don’t just focus on the unit price. If the materials are of high quality and the formulation is well-balanced, that’s the best way to truly save money in the long run.
Keywords: Raw materials for PVC roofing tiles
