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If you’re building a new home or upgrading your commercial roof in North Carolina, USA, you’re probably considering flat roofing membranes like TPO, EPDM, and PVC. Each one of these types brings its own strengths and compromises in cost, weather resistance, energy efficiency, and maintenance. This guide compares them side-by-side and helps you choose the right fit for your building.
Having a durable and storm-resistant roof is particularly important in North Carolina, where extreme weather conditions are common.
This year, unpredictable weather in NC tested the roofs like never before. A rare hailstorm in June with hail as big as a golf ball impacted countless roofs statewide. Then the July hurricanes brought rain and water pooling on the roofs, and now in October, drought-like conditions are taking a toll on the already baffled roofing materials.
In such extreme weather conditions, only the strong and weatherproof roofing, such as EPDM, TPO, and PVC, can offer lasting protection. But now the question is, which of these three options best suits your needs?
TPO emerges as the top choice for both commercial and some residential properties due to its energy efficiency, water resistance, and ease of installation, and we’re about to tell you why.
Keep reading to know more about each of these roofing membranes and how they differ from each other under various conditions and circumstances.
What Are Single-Ply Roofing Membranes?
Single-ply roofing membranes are synthetic roofing materials applied in a single layer to provide waterproofing for flat or low-slope roofs. They’re popular for both commercial and residential flat roofs due to their durability, ease of installation, and cost-effectiveness. The three main types are:
- TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin)
- EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)
- PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
What Is TPO Roofing?
TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) roofing roofing was introduced in the 1990s as a modern alternative to older materials. It is made from polypropylene and ethylene-propylene rubber, reinforced with polyester or fiberglass.
TPO is highly energy-efficient due to its white appearance, which reflects UV rays and reduces the cooling costs.
This roofing is heat-welded at the seams and provides strong, watertight protection in areas with heavy rainfall. It also handles hail well, making it a strong choice for hot climates and commercial buildings.
With a global market of around $5.67 billion in 2024, this roofing solution is best suited for businesses and commercial properties that require a strong and energy-efficient roofing system.
What Is EPDM Roofing?
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) roofing has been a popular single-ply membrane since its introduction in the 1960s. It is a rubber sheet made of ethylene, propylene, and a diene monomer.
It usually comes in large black sheets, which can absorb heat while also providing reliable waterproofing with taped or glued seams.
EPDM is an affordable, flexible material that performs well in varying weather conditions without cracking. The global EPDM market was valued at $ 4.90 billion in 2024, making it a popular choice for residential roofs and low-traffic commercial spaces, such as warehouses.
What Is PVC Roofing?
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) roofing membranes were introduced in the 1960s in Europe for industrial use. It is made from polyvinyl chloride, which is mixed with additives to make it both flexible and durable.
PVC roofs are known for their superior chemical resistance, strong heat-welded seams, and high reflectivity.
Therefore, these are used in restaurants, factories, and sites with harsh temperature conditions. The global PVC roofing market size reached 88.49 billion in 2025, reflecting its popularity and longevity.
What’s The Difference Between EPDM, PVC, And TPO Roofing?
1) Cost Per Square Foot
| Material | Installation Cost | Notes | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| EPDM | $4.5–$8 | Lowest upfront cost | EPDM |
| TPO | $5.5–$8 | Pricier than EPDM | — |
| PVC | $6–$12 | Durable but costly | — |
2) Lifespan
| Material | Typical Life | Winner |
|---|---|---|
| PVC | 25–40 years | PVC |
| EPDM | 20–30 years | — |
| TPO | 20–30 years | — |
3) Seams & Detailing
| Material | Seam Method | Winner |
|---|---|---|
| TPO | Heat-welded | TPO/PVC |
| PVC | Heat-welded | — |
| EPDM | Adhesive/tape | — |
4) Energy Efficiency / Cool Roof
| Material | Reflectivity | Winner |
|---|---|---|
| TPO | High (white) | TPO |
| PVC | High (white) | — |
| EPDM | Moderate (black) | — |
5) Fire & Chemical Resistance
| Material | Rating | Winner |
|---|---|---|
| PVC | Excellent | PVC |
| TPO | Good | — |
| EPDM | Good | — |
6) Cold-Weather Performance
| Material | Flexibility | Winner |
|---|---|---|
| EPDM | Excellent | EPDM |
| TPO | Can crack in extreme weather | — |
| PVC | Good | — |
7) Installation Speed
| Material | Speed | Winner |
|---|---|---|
| TPO | Fast | TPO |
| EPDM | Moderate | — |
| PVC | Moderate | — |
8) Maintenance & Repairs
| Material | Ease of Repair | Winner |
|---|---|---|
| EPDM | Easy DIY patching | EPDM |
| TPO | Skilled inspection and repairs | — |
| PVC | Heat-weld patches need professional maintenance | — |
9) Water Resistance
| Material | Notes | Winner |
|---|---|---|
| TPO | Handles ponding well | TPO/PVC |
| PVC | Welded seams resist leaks | TPO/PVC |
| EPDM | Flexible but seam attention needed | — |
10) Availability & Environmental Impact
| Material | Notes | Winner |
|---|---|---|
| TPO | High availability, recyclable | Draw |
| EPDM | Widely available, rubber-based | Draw |
| PVC | Recyclable, moderate footprint | Draw |
TPO Vs EPDM Vs PVC Roofing: Who Is The Ultimate Winner?
Based on the above comparison, TPO emerges as the clear winner. It is the top choice for both commercial and some residential properties due to its energy efficiency, water resistance, and ease of installation. It currently holds the largest share of the roofing market and is projected to reach USD 116.26 billion by 2034.
TPO is closely followed by EPDM, which is a durable material that performs exceptionally well in colder climates. For situations where heat or chemical resistance is a priority, PVC may be the better option.
Despite TPO being the most versatile and widely used, EPDM and PVC still maintain strong demand in specific applications. To help you choose the best roofing material for your building, here’s a quick decision guide.
TPO Vs PVC Vs EPDM Roofing: A Quick Decision Guide
| Conditions | Best Pick | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Hot climate (Coastal NC, Piedmont) | TPO | Reflects heat and reduces cooling costs. |
| Restaurants/Chemical Factories | PVC | Fire-resistant (great for environments with oils and chemicals). |
| Cold Climates (Mountain Areas) | EPDM | Perfect for homes and warehouses in cold weather. |
| Long-Life Industrial Needs | PVC | Comes with good durability and chemical resistance. |
| Simple Residential Roofs (Low Slope/Budget) | EPDM/TPO | EPDM is affordable and easy to install, while TPO offers energy savings at a higher upfront cost. |
When To Contact A Roofing Specialist?
If you are confused or uncertain about which roofing type is truly best for your building, it’s the right time to talk to a trusted roofing specialist. They can help you with the following:
Expert Assessment:
A specialist can assess your property, climate, and budget and suggest which membrane—TPO, EPDM, or PVC—will provide you the best value.
Quality Installation:
The lifespan of your roof is directly proportional to the quality of installation. A local roofing specialist with experience performs quality installation and often offers a warranty on the workmanship.
Tailored Recommendations:
Roofing experts can identify issues such as drainage problems or chemical exposure and recommend the most suitable roofing system for your building.
Access to Discounts:
Specialists have connections with high-quality brands and suppliers. They can utilize their network to help you get discounts on the material and save you money.
If you are looking for a contractor for roof inspection, maintenance, or installation, talk to State Wide Roofing experts now!
Takeaway:
A quick consultation or free inspection can help ensure your new roof performs as expected. Don’t leave this important decision to guesswork—Statewide Roofing Specialists handle EPDM, TPO, and PVC roofs for both commercial and residential properties. Contact us today to get expert advice and the right solution for your building.
