TPO Roof

When commercial roofing fails, your investment is vulnerable to costly damage. It’s important to be proactive before the lifespan of your current roof ends. Educate yourself early about the best option for your commercial property when it comes time for a roof replacement.

Cost-effective, durable TPO roofing systems are quite popular throughout the United States. Unsure if a TPO roof is right for your commercial property? 

Here are some frequently asked questions about this roofing solution to arm you with the facts as you decide what’s best for your property. 

Answers to Common Questions on TPO Roofing 

TPO is Thermoplastic Polyolefin and is a single-ply roofing system. It’s one of the most popular thermoplastic roof membranes in the industry and is made of ethylene propylene and a mix of fillers including fiberglass and talc. 

TPO’s flexibility makes it easy to work with and compatible with almost any type of commercial low and flat roofing structure. The fact that its seams can be welded and ensure an uncompromised connection between panels contributes to its popularity. 

While commercial roofs used to be covered with either PVC or EPDM membranes, the recurring issues with these led to the development of a third option — TPO. 

1. What is the life expectancy of a TPO roof?

When a TPO roof is properly installed and well maintained over the years, it is expected to last approximately 30 years—or longer. TPO roofing is only three decades old, and its method of installation has improved, so it may last longer than 30 years. 

2. How do you maintain a TPO roof?

We recommend our Certified Commercial Maintenance Program, which earns you an extension on your commercial roof’s warranty of up to 25%. 

3. What goes under a TPO roof?

A cover board is typically a ¼-inch gypsum board that is installed directly under the TPO membrane. It provides a more solid backing than insulation boards alone, improving the puncture resistance and long-term durability of your roof. 

4. How is TPO roofing calculated?

Roofers price materials in terms of “squares,” and one square equals one hundred square feet. 

5. What factors influence the overall price of my TPO roofing installation? 

It’s important for you to get at least three written estimates to find the right contractor for your commercial roofing installation. TPO prices will vary based on what season of the year you have it installed, what brand you choose, the labor required for installation, and the installation method. Whether your TPO roof will be installed over your property’s current roof or you need your current roof removed before its installation will impact your overall cost. 

6. What impacts TPO roofing’s ability to protect my property?

It’s vital that you find a reputable contractor (like us!) to install your TPO roof. When the installation is done by a company with a good track record, you can have peace of mind that your commercial property will be safeguarded from the elements. 

7. What are the essential factors to a successful installation?

When you choose an experienced roofing contractor, the installation of your TPO roof will be fast and detailed. Here are the vital aspects of a roofing installation.

• The TPO membrane’s performance is based on correct installation. It needs to be fully adhered to and mechanically attached to deliver optimal performance over its lifetime. 
• There must be a proper roof slope for efficient draining.
• The adhesives must be applied accurately.
• A seam welder must be used appropriately to ensure there won’t be leaks in the seams. 
• Welds should be inspected using a seam probe. 
• The drip edge must be accurately connected around your roof’s perimeter. 

8. What type of warranty will be included with my TPO roofing system? 

A good warranty is an important ingredient of your TPO roofing system. There are two types of warranties: 

• Manufacturer’s Warranty—This covers manufacturing defects in your roofing materials. For example, if the lamination separates from the TPO membrane when temperatures rise, a claim should be made. You should receive a warranty certificate from your contractor after it’s installed. 
• Contractor’s Warranty—This covers the workmanship involved in your TPO roofing installation. It should include a list of what is covered, the date the warranty expires, and the situations that could void your warranty. 

9. Is TPO better than EPDM roofing?

These two roofing options are similar, but TPO has stronger and more durable seams which adhere to the roof, making it a favorable option. EPDM is not weldable, while TPO is, making its seams more resistant to leaks. 

10. How does TPO compare to PVC? 

TPO provides superior puncture resistance and less environmental impact. Both are excellent products, so your decision should be based on which meets your long-term needs best. PVC is brittle, while a TPO roof isn’t—contributing to its longevity and moisture resistance. 

11. What colors can I choose for my TPO roofing? 

TPO typically comes in white, black, and gray. It can also be found in various shades of gray, brown, green, red, tan, and gold. 

12. What about its energy efficiency?

White TPO membranes are the most popular color option for locations that have warm and sunny climates, efficiently reflecting the heat. Commercial properties located in cooler climates benefit from black TPO membranes, insulating buildings against cold weather. 

For more information on TPO roofing, take a look at The Ultimate Guide to TPO Roofing. 

Get an Attractive, Energy-Saving TPO Roof for Your Commercial Property

At Christian Brothers Roofing, we are an elite commercial TPO roofing company providing top service and expert installations that give you confidence your Kansas City business is well protected. 

We develop a customized plan, reliable updates, timely progress, orderly worksites, and optimal long-term results. We even file your warranties for you. 

Learn more about our TPO commercial roofing services.