TPO is typically sold in thicknesses of 45 mil, 60 mil and 90 mil. In Indiana, we typically see 45 mil and 60 mil specified. The thicker the membrane, the better the long term durability.
An EPDM roof with a thickness of 45 Mils should last around twelve years. If your roof is 90 Mils thick, it might last more than twenty-five years. However, continued exposure to hot humid weather or sub-zero freezing temperatures may negatively impact the life of your roof.
Whether its BUR (Built-up Roofing), TPO (Thermoplastic polyolefin), Modified Bitumen, or Single Ply Roofing, your roofing professional can apply the right waterproofing membrane to make it possible to walk on.
Thermoplastic single-ply roofing systems are plastic sheets (PVC, TPO, CSPE) that are welded together with hot air. This creates a shingle sheet that provides the weather protection for the building. Both the Thermoset and the Thermoplastic must be installed at a minimum one- fourth-inch-per-twelve-inch slope.
A TPO roof can be installed fully-adhered, mechanically-attached or ballasted. When the TPO roof is fully adhered it means that the membrane was glued to the substrate using a special strong adhesive that creates a chemical bond with the TPO.
It comes in a variety of thickness ranging from 45 mil to 80+ mil which can fit within a wide variety of budgets. 80-mil TPO roofs come with up to a 25-year warranty and with the appropriate maintenance, it is not uncommon for a TPO roofing system to last as long as 30 years.
While PVC offers better resistance to puncture and weathering, TPO (like PVC) is recyclable and environmentally friendly. Its reflective surface reduces UV radiation and helps with energy efficiency.
TPO roofing reflects sunlight, allowing commercial air conditioners to work more efficiently; whereas EPDM has a dark surface, which in summer conditions will absorb heat, forcing cooling systems to work overtime. TPO offers reduced cooling costs and energy savings for facilities located in warmer climates.
The ones most commonly used are around 10 feet. The average thickness ranges from 45-90 mil. It is typically recommended to install a membrane that is at least 50 mil thick.
EPDM membrane is manufactured in various thicknesses (. 045″ to . 090″ thick) and is available as a non-reinforced or reinforced sheet (depending upon application). Other thicknesses are also available for use in non-roofing applications as a special order.
(A mil is a unit of measure where 1-mil is equal to 0.001 inches. So, a 45-mil roofing membrane is actually 0.045 inches thick; whereas a 60-mil membrane is 0.06 inches thick, and so on.)
Yes… Direct adhesion of TPO single-ply membranes to lightweight insulating concrete for a complete tear-off application is allowed only when the following requirements are met: ● Existing roof is removed down to the LWIC.
What type of roofing is best for a low pitch roof?
Rubber roofs are a top choice for flat or low pitched roofing as it adheres to the roofing materials below it and, when installed correctly, provides a watertight seal to the elements. Choosing the best low slope roof materials often comes down to weighing the pros and cons based on your home and your needs.
The smallest pitch of a roof is 1/4:12, which translates to 1/4 inch rise to 12 inches of run. Such a small pitch can only work with built-up roofing or specialized synthetic roofing. Covered porches that are near trees or in areas with heavy rains should not be covered with a low-slope roof.
Asphalt shingles typically have a minimum slope rating of 4 in 12. This means that for every 12 inches of horizontal distance across the shed the roof will rise 4 inches. This slope works well for sheds that are fairly narrow, like 4 to 6 feet, but for sheds that are 8′ or wider the shed roof becomes unsightly high.
Often times you will find that TPO is actually cheaper with many advantages whereas Tar & Gravel has more disadvantages. When it comes to environmental questions both help with UV light in that it will reflect or absorb the UV light for roof longevity.
TPO is a single-ply material and is not designed to take on heavy foot traffic, which means certain types of footwear may damage the roof. Despite the relative flatness of such roofing, high winds and the risks of slipping (TPO can be slippery when wet) are safety concerns that professionals are prepared for.
TPO, also known as a “Cool Roof”, is a very durable and energy-efficient roofing system. TPO roofing can reduce heating and air conditioning costs by as much as 25 – 35% once installed and completed. TPO can be used in many applications from commercial to residential flat roofs.
