A Thermoplastic PolyOlefin (also known as TPO) is a flat commercial roof. It’s not just a protective membrane; it’s an entire roof system.
Originating in the 1980s, the single-ply TPO roofing membrane is made of a combination of polypropylene and ethylene-propylene. This popular roofing material delivers durability and affordability along with energy savings for your business. It’s known as one of the longest-lasting and most enduring options for your commercial property.
TPO roofing, also known as a “cool roof”, reflects sunlight, easing the hard work of commercial air conditioning units. The energy efficiency it promotes saves you on utility costs. Due to fewer seams, and being welded together, this trusted roofing solution gives business owners confidence in its performance. It resists punctures, tears, and extreme weather.
Available in dozens of stylish colors, TPO roofing is attractive. Its low maintenance is a plus for busy businesses. It resists dirt, mold, mildew and moisture due to its makeup and installation process.
There are a variety of components that make up the overall investment of a new commercial TPO roof.
The Contributing Factors in the Cost of a TPO Roof
When you are in need of a new flat roof for your commercial property, it’s important to get three estimates from reputable roofing companies who specialize in thermoplastic single-ply systems like TPO and PVC heat-welded membranes so you can determine the best fit for your needs. TPO roofing is the more cost-effective of the two single-ply options due to its simplicity in labor.
The two main categories of expense in any roofing project are materials and labor. Here are added features that impact price:
Your roof size
It’s no surprise that the bigger your building, the larger your roof, and the greater your overall cost for roof replacement. Measure the perimeter of your building, and multiply it by the price per square foot for TPO roofing.
The insulation quality
The type of insulation installed on your TPO roof replacement will directly impact your cost.
The TPO membrane’s thickness
TPO is available in 45 mil, 60 mil, and 90 mil options. The thicker the membrane, the better its resistance to punctures and UV rays. The deeper the membrane, the more durable it is, and consequently the greater your investment.
Project complexity
The number of skylights, chimneys, roof hatches, and other penetrations impact the overall cost of your roofing installation. The fewer the obstructions to your flat roof, the simpler the installation, and the greater the savings on your overall cost. Each penetration needs additional flashing to seal and maneuver around it in a way that will ensure you avoid moisture infiltration.
Labor for installation
The labor involved in commercial roofing installation can add up to 75% of your total roofing replacement cost. TPO roofing offers considerable advantages, and its installation is complex. Special equipment and tools ensure a waterproof, durable commercial roof.
Only installed by experienced professionals, this roofing must be put into place properly in order for it to perform as it should. Two conventional TPO installation techniques include fully adhered or mechanically attached. A robot welder is used for seam welding. It welds every TPO sheet to fortify the roof.
Timing
What time of year will you get your roof replacement? Did you know that timing can impact your overall cost for a TPO roof? Roofing contractors charge more when they are the busiest. Peak season is late summer and early fall months. The higher the demand at the time of your roof replacement, the higher the cost of labor for its installation. If you schedule it for early spring or late fall, you’ll decrease your overall cost. Plan ahead if possible, and arrange your roof replacement during the non-busy season to save big in the end.
Tear off
Most states require that your roof may not have more than two layers of materials without approval by a building engineer, architect, or permission from your city’s building department. All existing material must be removed down to the roof deck before installing a new roof. The safety in this procedure is that it allows all wet insulation to be removed, and any repairs that are necessary to be made before replacing your roofing.
Warranty coverage
Warranties come with roof replacement, and they directly impact the overall cost of your roofing. At Christian Brothers Roofing, a WellRoof Extension is available so you can move forward with confidence.
Smart Moves after You Install a TPO Roof
- Learning to do visual inspections on your commercial roof will help you spot any potential problems quickly, which minimizes your costs and the work disruptions that are caused by roof leaks.
- Once you install a TPO roof replacement, it’s wise to invest in a commercial roof maintenance plan that protects your warranty and gives you peace of mind. Planning for regular inspections and routine care ensures you get long-lasting protection from your commercial roof.
Get the Best Material and Installation for Your Commercial Flat Roof
Finding the best solution for your commercial roofing needs can be overwhelming if you try to do it alone. At Christian Brothers Roofing, we take time to assess your needs, budget requirements, weather resistance, energy efficiency, and schedule to produce a roofing solution that gives you lasting value and results in your complete satisfaction.
TPO roofing gives you a durable solution that will help your commercial property maintain its safety on a daily basis and increase its value. If your current roof is damaged and your air conditioner is working overtime, a TPO roof may be the perfect solution.
Take a moment to find out more about commercial TPO roof replacements.
