Is TPO roofing good for residential?

TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) is a single-ply white membrane used in both commercial and residential roofing. Due to TPO being a white membrane, it reflects heat instead of absorbing it. If you have a flat roof or a low-slope dormer over a bedroom, TPO is a great option because it'll keep the room below cooler.

How good is a TPO roof?

In reality, the thickness of a TPO roof has no impact on its quality or durability. Again, since TPO roofs are so new on the market, there is little evidence and research done to say how long this type of roofing membrane will last. Generally, roofing experts estimate a TPO roof will last 10 to 20 years.

Which is better TPO or PVC roofing?

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.

What are the benefits of TPO roofing?

TPO membranes are highly durable.

They hold up well to long-term exposure to the sun's ultraviolet light, and they are highly resistant to puncturing, tearing, or water damage. They are even resistant to bacterial growth and dirt buildup, so it will be easier for you to keep your roof clean.

How long does a flat TPO roof last?

A TPO roof membrane can last anywhere from 15 to 20 years. It is a single ply reflective roofing option, and it is typically adhered or mechanically attached. This membrane can be left exposed throughout its life.

4 Reasons Why You Should Install TPO Roof

Can you walk on TPO roof?

Flat Roof Surfaces You Can Walk On

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.

How do you maintain a TPO roof?

Does TPO roofing shrink?

TPO does not shrink over time, but PVC can and this will cause many problems on a roofing job.

What is better modified bitumen or TPO?

Unless you are on an extremely restricted budget and need the cheaper roofing material right now, TPO is a superior choice. When it comes to which is the better material, TPO wins on most points. Despite that, modified bitumen is still around, and there are still roofers who are happy to work with it.

What is TPO roofing made out of?

TPO roofing systems are made up of a single layer of synthetics and reinforcing scrim that can be used to cover flat roofs. TPO membranes are manufactured in sheets that are 10, 12, or 20 feet wide. These sheets are then rolled up and taken to the commercial facility.

How do you tell the difference between TPO and PVC?

While TPO and PVC are both in the thermoplastic, single-ply family, they are very different in their base chemical composition. TPO is made of ethylene propylene rubber and polypropylene, while PVC, also commonly known as vinyl, is composed of ethylene and chlorine.

How long does a PVC roof last?

EPDM and TPO roofing generally last anywhere from 10 to 20 years, while TPO roofs have stronger seams than EPDM roofing. With proper maintenance, a PVC roof can last up to 30 years.

Is TPO slippery?

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.

Is TPO roofing expensive?

Although many different factors can influence the price of your roof, in most cases, you can expect to pay between $3.50 and $9.50 per square foot. Overall, TPO roofing costs typically range between $7,000 and $11,500.

What goes under a TPO roof?

Is TPO compatible with asphalt?

*Note: EPDM, flexible (plasticized) polyvinyl chloride—PVC, uncured neoprene and TPO are not compatible with rubberized asphalt.

Is TPO a cool roof?

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.

Can TPO roofing be installed over plywood?

TPO is a single-ply membrane that can be installed over the top of the plywood. Although there are different types of roofing material, like metal or wood shingle roofs, this type provides an alternative because it's much cheaper.

What is the minimum slope for a TPO roof?

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.

Can you use bleach on TPO roof?

Can you use bleach on an RV TPO roof? Yes, you can use bleach on a TPO RV roof. Bleach is often the best solution to get rid of mold and mildew, which can be common on an RV roof.

How old is TPO?

The answer was TPO. TPO membranes were first introduced in Europe in 1991 with the name FPO (Flexible Polyolefin). In the early 1990s, TPO arrived in the US market. Afterwards, TPO became a popular selection because it is durable, cost-effective, ultraviolet- (UV) and heat-resistant, and energy efficient.

Is TPO better than tar and gravel?

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.