Your roofing system protects your family, employees, and inventory from the elements. It also works hard to protect the integrity of your home or office. Whether you are in the market for a new roof system or need a durable roof for your new project, it’s advisable to take your time to select the most efficient roofing system. One worthwhile roofing system you should consider is TPO roofing.
With TPO, business owners and homeowners will likely realize huge energy savings and durability. Here is your definitive guide to TPO roofing, including what it is and why everyone is using it.
What Exactly is TPO Roofing?
TPO roofing, also known as thermoplastic polyolefin, is a single-ply membrane. It is made up of a chemical compound known as polypropylene. Polypropylene is responsible for the durability and elasticity of TPO roofing systems. Since it is a white membrane, TPO reflects light instead of absorbing it. Usually, the sheets used to manufacture TPO membranes come in various sizes.
TPO roofing is the perfect option for property owners with a low-slope dormer or a flat roof. It will help maintain optimal temperatures and enhance energy efficiency in your home or business. You can have it installed in living and non-living spaces.
What is TPO Made Of?
Since it’s a single-ply roofing system, only one membrane is used to make TPO. The membrane consists of three layers, namely:
- Top layer – thermoplastic polyolefin
- Reinforced fabric – polyester
- Base layer – thermoplastic polyolefin
The two polyolefin layers contain ethylene-propylene, rubber, fiberglass, carbon fiber, and talc for enhanced strength and flexibility. The reinforced layer offers additional support and flexibility.
Is TPO a Good Roof?
TPO roofing systems are growing in popularity all over the country due to their unique properties and benefits. Business owners and homeowners who have upgraded to this single-ply roofing system enjoy better energy efficiency and improved durability even in harsh climates. Let’s discuss the benefits of TPO roofing below.
Cost-Effective
If you are like everyone, you are probably delaying your roofing replacement because you are worried about the cost of installing a new roof. However, delaying a roof replacement can result in electrical issues, health risks, and structural damage. Fortunately, you won’t have to pay a fortune to install a new and effective TPO roofing system. TPO membranes are relatively inexpensive than other roofing materials like PVC.
Easy Installation
TPO roofing comes in various size options. As such, it is easy to spread across your roof. Additionally, it does not require a high number of seams during installation. This quick installation also means that you are likely to pay less for installation.
Energy Efficient
Thanks to their UV-resistant properties, TPO membranes will make your home or business energy efficient. The white TPO membranes will block the sun’s rays, helping you maintain optimal temperatures on your property. What’s more, TPO roofing systems are manufactured from recyclable materials, lowering the environmental impact.
Highly Durable
TPO roofing systems are among the most durable roofing products due to their ability to withstand harsh UV rays, tearing, water damage, or puncturing. Not only that, but TPO membranes are also resistant to dirt build-up, bacterial, and mold growth. What’s more, TPO can handle the contraction and expansion of your building.
Flexibility
TPO has become the go-to roofing product due to its flexibility. First, TPO is available in various colors to give property owners, architects, and roofers more options when designing and constructing a building.
Leak Protection
Unlike conventional roofing systems, the seams in TPO membranes are welded with hot air. As a result, the membranes are stronger and hold up to water damage and leaks. It’s also easier to repair the membranes thanks to the welded seams.
Cons of TPO Roofing
As with other roofing systems, TPO also has its fair share of disadvantages. The main concern of TPO roofing is that it’s relatively new to the market. This means that it is constantly changing. The good news is that it keeps changing for the better.
TPO Roofing Installation Process
The installation for TPO requires either adhesives or mechanical fasteners. Many roofing contractors use mechanical fasteners for additional strength and leak protection.
Each TPO membrane overlaps the last one so that they can be seamed together through hot air welding. This is why TPO is highly durable, waterproof, and flexible.
Is TPO the Right Roof For You?
If you need a new roof for your commercial building, it’s best to educate yourself about different roofing systems. TPO roofing is undoubtedly a smart investment if you have a low-slopped or flat roof. With TPO, you will enjoy more cost savings, energy efficiency, and leak protection. Besides, TPO will give you more flexibility and requires minimal maintenance. If you are in doubt, the best thing to do is to contact a trusted roofing company near you.
For over two decades, Premier Commercial Roofing has installed the highest quality TPO roofing systems in Columbia City and Fort Wayne, IN. Call us today to get your free estimate.