Thermoplastic polyolefin, also called TPO, is a single-ply white membrane type of roofing that expert roofers use for robust roof installation. Due its popularity amongst the homeowners and industries, the TPO roofing cost can skyrocket at times.
Whether you require it for commercial or residential purposes, the TPO roofing offers efficiency and durability against harsh and extreme weather. This environmental-friendliness makes TPO roofing a must-have choice for homeowners. Amongst many worth-purchasing qualities, the quality to withstand UV, ozone, chemical exposure and extreme heat tops the chart.
Apart from its residential usage, industries utilize TPO type material in construction. The automotive sector adopted it from the 80s onwards. In recent years, it has been utilized without reinforcing roofing. After 1993, a change was introduced: an unreinforced TPO membrane was replaced with reinforcing fabric properties. It has been considered as a breakthrough in the TPO roofing industry. Since then, the TPO roofing membrane has become one of the rapidly-growing segments in the single-ply roofing industry in the USA.
What does TPO roofing stand for?
TPO stands for Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO). TPO roofing is a standout amongst other roofing types. It is an inexpensive and environment-friendly roofing material that offers longevity and durability. That is why TPO roofing is on the rise in market demands. It is also one of the most popular types of flat roofing and has many advantages over PVC or EPDM. It’s also more energy-efficient and saves you a great deal in the cooling bill during summer while keeping the interior cool during the winter.
Furthermore, TPO is a durable material that doesn’t wear and tear quickly. The only time you need to fix and repair is when you spot small holes in it which can be fixed using patches. For considerable TPO roofing repair, sealant or exclusive glue is usually used to ensure you don’t get to have any future roofing problems.
Advantages of a TPO roofing system
As we go through the pros and cons of the material, the integral benefit of TPO roofing lies within its robustness against harsh weather. TPO roofing system can be fastened directly to the rooftop around chimneys with the highest accuracy. Here are few benefits of TPO roofing:
- It is made from polypropylene, rubber, and reinforcing filler. TPO is a good choice for homes with a variety of architectural styles. Cheaper than other roofing materials, an average TPO membrane starts at $5.5-$8.00 per square foot for a smaller and $6.00-$13 per square foot on big projects.
- Mostly, TPO is found as white membrane. White membrane reflects heat.
- It has also been observed that black TPO membranes are more resistant to cold weather.
- TPO’s material will not catch fire. These anti-fire characteristics make the TPO roofing an excellent choice for hot weather states.
- It offers excellent waterproofing for larger areas and is UV-resistant. Thus giving it a cool roof effect that eventually reduces cooling and heating costs of the structure.
- It is the much easier to install, resulting in less disruption.
- It is lightweight in nature.
- The material also resists corrosion.
- TPO roofing system do not require pressure washing like other roofing systems. The cleaning of TPO roofing systems will never become a hectic challenge for you.
Disadvantages of TPO roofs
- Whenever TPO roof repair is needed to fix some leak, a big portion will be removed in order to properly fix the leakage.
- TPO roofs also get spoiled when exposed to the sunlight continuously. It won’t last long compared to other roofing material.
- TPO roofs have less life span. However, if it is installed properly & professionally, the TPO roofing can last a maximum of 30 years.
- If TPO roofing is not installed by experts or licensed roofers, then it will have leakage, drainage issues. It will not be as watertight as it should be.
How to install TPO Roofing?
Following are the three most common methods for installing TPO roofing structures:
1. Fully-adhered
2. Mechanically attached
3. Ballasted
Fully Adhered TPO roofing is completely adhered in its membrane. In this method, the TPO is bonded to the surface with a powerful glue that forms a chemical bond with the TPO. This method is called fully-adhered.
Secondly, Mechanically-Attached TPO roofing is a method of roof installation where the roof is attached mechanically to the surface. A screw-type fastener is used to secure the substrate. It is always recommended that the type of fastener you use is based on the substrate you are using. Then the adjacent sheet is rolled and laid with fasteners that cover the plates made of TPO membrane and joined with a 40 MM wide hot air weld.
Ballasted TPO roofing is a method of TPO roof installation that is done by placing the TPO membrane on the roof and carefully sealing the circumference along with every absorption point. Then the ballast is placed over the membrane to hold it in the proper position. Ballast is traditionally composed of even round river rock 2-3 inches in size.
How long does TPO roof last?
TPO roofing system can last as long as 30 years with the appropriate maintenance. TPO roofs are long lasting, cost effective and environmental friendly roofs. These key factors that have encouraged people to adopt TPO for roofing. Additionally no wear and tear unlike other traditional roofing.
How much does TPO roofing cost?
Before we explain how much does roofing cost, it is imperative to make some cost comparison of all the available choices for roofing material. You will find TPO roofing cheaper than other types.
If you are still unsure, it is advisable to contact a contractor for an accurate TPO roofing price estimation. TPO roofing cost depends on the project; usually, it is $7-$13 per square foot for small residential jobs. However, for commercial projects depending on the number of square feet contractors may provide a discount per square foot since commercial projects are large.
What is TPO roofing material?
TPO roofing material is lightweight and easy to install. It has the additional quality of reflecting heat. TPO roofing material is made of synthetic rubber with many beneficial properties. It is a great way to save energy costs during the summer months. TPO roofing material lasts for 25-30 years if it is maintained properly.
What is TPO roofing membrane?
TPO or Thermoplastic Polyolefin is a roofing membrane. TPO roof membrane technology was invented in the late 1980s.The first TPO roofing membrane was used in 1989. In 1993, non-reinforced membranes took over with fabric-reinforced features that reduced it’s overall cost. Since then, the same TPO roofing membrane has been used for both small and big projects.
Compared to other roofing methods and material, the TPO membrane thickness can vary from 40 to 80 mils. This helps the roofing produce results with no leakage and saves the roof from rotting. It will also save you maintenance time and money compared to other roofing types. In simple terms, TPO roofing membrane is considered more robust membrane due to it’s thickness and durability.
Where to buy TPO roofing material?
It is highly recommended to always consider an expert and reputable manufacturer to purchase good and high-quality TPO roofs. Only a reputable contractor like us will explain why it is more reliable than PVC and is ideal for commercial and residential roofing projects.