TPO Roofing 101: What You Need to Know

As a local business owner, you might have heard about TPO roofing a couple of times already. In this blog post, let’s talk about how you can benefit from TPO roofing. Is it really worth it? Find out by reading until the end of this article.

Related: Why a Flat Roof Is the Most Common for Commercial Roofing

What is TPO Roofing?

TPO stands for thermoplastic polyolefin. It is one of the synthetic single-ply roofing membranes used for flat roofing. Some experts would describe it as something in between PVC and EPDM at a more affordable price.

Even if it’s a single-ply roofing membrane, it is made up of three layers including a polymer base, polyester-reinforced fabric center, and TPO compounded top ply. It also has fillers such as fiberglass, carbon fiber, talc, etc. It is available in three different thicknesses including 45, 60, and 80 mils.

To help you get to know TPO roofing a little bit more, we’ve outlined the pros and cons. In this way, you’ll get an idea if this is something that would work for your Denver-based business.

Pros

• Cost-Effective - Yes, you read it right. TPO is an affordable option which, of course, is beneficial to business owners on the financial side of things. Prices can start at $5 per square foot which is a lot lower than other roofing systems available in the market.
• Durable - Durability is a must and we’re glad to report that TPO offers superior strength. The performance of a TPO roofing depends on the quality of the material and the installation process. It can resist impact, mold growth, and punctures.
• Flexible - It is also flexible enough to adjust to your property’s size and design. It can also thrive well despite the threat of thermal expansions and contractions.
• Easy to Install - TPO is a lightweight material which makes it easy to handle. Because it’s not too complicated to install, there are no added labor implications. However, as with any roofing system, you need to hire a credible and experienced roofing contractor to work on your roofing project. Otherwise, you wouldn’t meet all the expectations of a sturdy and functional roof. For TPO, it can be installed in many ways, either mechanically attached, adhered, ballasted, or plate bonded.
• UV Resistant - TPO roofing has a reflective surface that bounces off heat rather than absorbing it. In return, it helps building owners reduce energy consumption by lowering the need for cooling equipment even during summer months. According to data, it can help save up to 90% of energy.
• Eco-Friendly - TPO is a 100% recyclable material. Once it reaches the end of its life service, it can be used to create a new batch of roofing materials for the next generation.

TPO installation requires expertise to guarantee maximum performance and longevity.

Cons

• Lifespan - According to reports, a TPO roofing can reach anytime between 20 to 30 years with proper installation and maintenance. While this seems like a good number already, it’s nothing compared to the long-lasting materials available. However, it still depends on your long-term plans as this might be an option for people who want to grow their business and expand in the future. With this, you might want to relocate somewhere else.
• Leaks - Some owners complain about leaks even if a TPO roofing is considered to be waterproof. Issues like this stem from various precedents such as poor installation and low-quality materials. Thus, we cannot emphasize enough the importance of choosing the right Denver CO roofing company. Reliable roofing companies use hot-air welding equipment to completely secure the edges, seams, and flashings.

How Is TPO Similar or Different to PVC?

Even if PVC and TPO technically come in the same family (single-ply roofing membranes), they are still different from each other.

PVC or polymerizing vinyl chloride is made from the combination of ethylene and chlorine. On the other hand, TPO doesn’t contain chlorine which makes it a more environmental-friendly solution.

In terms of the cost, PVC and TPO aren’t too different from each other. PVC’s average prices can start at $6 per square foot which is only a dollar more than the cost of a TPO roofing.

Depends on what you need, a licensed roofing contractor can recommend a material that is most suitable for you. This is depending on several factors such as location, budget, long-term priorities, and more.

Real Also: 2018 Modern Flat Roof Materials Guide: Types and Installation Costs

Does TPO Roofing All Look the Same?

While some building owners aren’t too concerned about the appearance, it is still an important factor to look into. Since TPO is mostly used for flat roofing, can it still contribute to the overall design? The answer is a big yes.

TPO usually comes in a white color for maximum energy efficiency. However, there are plenty of color options to choose from.

The most common TPO roofing comes in white, tan, or grey. However, manufacturers have expanded the color selections as business owners can now choose from more than 10 different colors. TPO is now available in brown, green, blue, orange, and many other shades of colors that you can match your property’s design. You don’t have to compromise appeal with functionality if you go for TPO roofing.

Should You Choose TPO?

If you need a waterproof material to protect your property, then you might want to consider TPO. However, the decision is not solely based on the question of do you need it or not. You also have to factor in elements that may interfere with a TPO roofing’s performance. For instance, you need to know if will it thrive in your local weather conditions. You also have to make sure that your location wouldn’t pose too might threat to you TPO roofing as environmental elements like big branches can puncture or create dents on the surface.

To know if you can succeed in building a TPO roof, don’t forget to carefully assess these factors along with a trusted roofing company that knows your hometown really well. The secret here is to find a local roofing company that operates where your company is. In this way, they can recommend tried and tested roofing systems that will surely be beneficial to your business rather than a liability.

Next Read: Flat Roof Extension Design for Denver Homes (Read Before You Build)

Conclusion

In closing, it’s safe to say that TPO roofing is one of the frontrunners in the modern commercial roofing industry. However, it’s not fit for everybody. Roofing is not about following the latest trends. It’s more of matching your preferences and aligning your goals to a roofing material that can help you grow your business.

If you want to know more about TPO roofing system and other single-ply thermoplastic membranes, let the best roofers in Denver CO help you with their knowledge and experience.

Roper Roofing has more than a decade of extensive roofing experience. We have a solid track record in building modern, safe, and sturdy roofing for Colorado-based commercial and residential properties.

Let’s work together in achieving your goals. Hire us so you can focus on growing your business while we build a long-lasting and weather-resistant roof for you. Call us today: 720-307-7143.