What is TPO membrane?

Thermoplastic Polyolefin is a single-ply roofing membrane that is one of the fastest-growing commercial roofing systems on the market. TPO roofing systems are made up of a single layer of synthetics and reinforcing scrim that can be used to cover flat roofs.

Is TPO a good roof?

TPO is very good at resisting dirt build-up, punctures, and tears as well. This means a strong roofing product that can save you money in the long run as the roof will need to be cleaned less often.

What is TPO waterproofing membrane?

TPO or thermoplastic polyolefin is a single-ply reflective roofing membrane. It is composed of polypropylene and ethylene-propylene rubber which are polymerized together to form what we call TPO. This synthetic roofing membrane comes in various thickness and dimensions.

Which is better EPDM or TPO?

TPO has better dimensional stability than EPDM. EPDM is more likely to shrink which can cause a variety of problems on your roof.

What is a TPO material?

Thermoplastic Polyolefins (TPO or TPE-O)

TPO compounds are resin blends of polypropylene (PP) and un-crosslinked EPDM rubber and polyethylene. They are characterised by high impact resistance, low density and good chemical resistance.

All About TPO Roofing

What is TPO membrane made of?

Each thermoplastic polyolefin layer is made of ethylene-propylene rubber and manufactured with fillers such as talc, fiberglass, and carbon fiber. These fillers add to the TPO's strength and flexibility.

What is better TPO or PVC?

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 type of roofing is best for a flat roof?

PVC roofing

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) roofing membranes have been heralded as one of the best flat roofing materials in the single-ply roofing industry. The material is made from processed petroleum or a natural gas and salt mixture.

How do you maintain a TPO roof?

Which type of flat roof is best?

EPDM Membranes

Quite possibly the best flat roofing membrane, EPDM is a relatively low-cost flat roof material that offers a number of significant advantages. Clean, straightforward installation, incredible strength, a long lifespan, and a smart finish combine to make EPDM membranes a difficult one to beat.

What is EPDM waterproofing?

EPDM is a synthetic rubber which is completely weather-resistant and UV-resistant. Thanks to its extreme elasticity of more than 500%, it is the most flexible single ply membranes for waterproofing flat roofs, buildings and facades.

Can you walk on a 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.

Is TPO roof 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.

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 thick is TPO roofing?

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.

What do you clean a TPO roof with?

EverGuard TPO only requires mild and non-abrasive household detergent for cleaning. Use a long-handled brush with soft bristles. Make sure to rinse off the solution completely with a pressure washer set on low.

What is the longest lasting flat roof?

PVC Single-Ply Membrane

It is designed to last between 15 and 30 years, making it the longest-lasting flat roof material you will find. It should come as no surprise that many commercial roofing contractors will only install a flat roof if it is PVC.

How often should a flat roof be replaced?

But what happens when your flat roof is in need of a replacement? On average, flat roofing may need replacing or at least repairing around every 15 – 20 years.

Why do flat roofs have gravel?

Contractors and builders use gravel on flat roofing for two primary reasons; the first is to protect the underlying layer of roofing materials on built-up roofs (BURs), and the second is to secure or weigh down the roofing material, as is the case with single-ply flat roofs.

How do you tell the difference between TPO and PVC?

Off the rack, no you cannot tell the difference visually. You can 'feel' a difference- PVC feeling more waxy, and feeling more pliable then TPO (unaged anyway…) PVC also has a distinct 'PVC Smell' to it.

Is TPO roof glued down?

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.

Is TPO toxic?

There are no environmental concerns with the base polymers and all of the raw materials and base additives are non-hazardous.