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TPO Roofing

The Complete guide

Let's talk about TPO roofing systems.

For commercial buildings with a low-slope or flat roof, a TPO roof is one of the most popular systems.

Why?

One reason is cost, but it doesn't stop there.

There are several other reasons you may want to invest in a TPO roofing system.

In this TPO roofing guide ››

You're going to learn everything you need to know about TPO roofing, so you can make an educated decision about your next roofing project.

TPO Roofing Details

What is TPO Roofing?

TPO stands for Thermoplastic Polyolefin. A TPO roof system consists of a single-ply roofing membrane, supported by a properly installed solid substrate - often an engineered insulation system - on flat or low sloping roofs.

The TPO roof membrane comes in different thicknesses - commonly 40-mil to 80-mils or thicker.

And quality varies widely by manufacturer.

The membrane is attached to the roof by mechanical fasteners, adhesives and various methods of heat welding to form watertight seams and seals around roof edges and penetrations.

As is the goal with most roofing systems, TPO roofing systems form an effective barrier designed to repel water, snow and ice.

To keep your building and its contents safe and dry.

While your TPO roofing system may have unique design requirements, the graphic below shows one common type of install.

 

Fully Adhered TPO System

  1. TPO Membrane
  2. Bonding Adhesive
  3. Fasteners & Plates
  4. Insulation System
  5. Roof Deck

 

TPO Roof Membrane Details

You may be wondering...

What is TPO roofing material made of?

The single-ply TPO roof membrane actually consists of at least three layers, bonded together to create a single membrane.

Thermoplastic Polyolefins (TPOs) are polypropelene based materials that have been modified to provide better tension strength, flexibility and impact resistance, while retaining the chemical resistance of PP products.

While TPO membranes contain thermoplastics, they may also contain EPR or EPDM rubber and other compounds (depending on formulation) like talc, fiberglass or carbon fiber to amplify durability and effectiveness.

Benefits of a TPO Roof

A TPO roof offers substantial benefits over other roofing systems in key areas.

Here are a few benefits of a TPO roofing system:

Puncture Resistance

Punctures can lead to leaks. TPO offers increased puncture resistance over other commonly used roofing materials. The quality of substrate design and installation techniques can play a big role in puncture resistance, so be sure to choose a first-rate roofing contractor.

Energy Efficiency

Reflective TPO roof membranes come in white and other light colors and can help save money on energy costs compared to dark-colored EPDM. Some buildings see a dramatic drop in heat absorption when using a light-colored TPO roof.

Long-term Weather Resistance

TPO offers superior resistance to long-term heat and damaging UV rays from the sun. TPO resists shrinking so seams and sealants stay in place over time.

Welded Seam Strength

A weather-tight roofing system depends on the strength of its seams. Welded seams as part of a professionally-installed TPO roof system, create a monolithic membrane across your entire roof.

How to Select a TPO Roofing Installation Contractor

TPO roof installation requires an experienced commercial roofing contractor. TPO roofing is a specialty field of roof installation. And complex roof systems require careful craftsmanship and adherence to strict manufacturer standards.

If your roof has suffered hail or wind damage, you will want a contractor that can work with you every step of the way. One that is able to perform emergency roof repairs as needed, loose lay TPO temporary roofing if necessary and total installation.

Look for a TPO roofing contractor with the following qualifications:

  • Is licensed, bonded, and insured in your state
  • Trained & certified by the manufacturer to offer the best quality and warranty options
  • Experience installing your type of flat roof on multiple projects
  • Experience managing staged roofing projects that may require parallel tear-off and installation
  • Experience working with insurance companies on damage claims

An experienced roofing contractor can help you avoid leaks and major problems and provide a roofing systems that lasts for decades.

RestoreMasters has been honored with multiple years on the Inc. 5000 List of America's Fastest Growing Companies and consistently ranks among the Top 100 Roofing Contractors in the nation.