TPO Roofing
So, what is TPO roofing? The Letters TPO stands for Thermoplastic Polyolefin. TPO is a flat roof system generally used in the commercial roofing industry. Although, recently there has been an upswing of TPO in residential roofing as well. TPO is a single-ply roofing membrane made of propylene-ethylene rubber and other fillers such as talc and fiberglass which are added for flexibility, strength and longevity.
TPO membranes are usually produced in 100-foot rolls. TPO for commercial use comes in thickness of up to .080 inches and widths of either 3 foot wide or 12 foot wide rolls. TPO for residential roofing comes in .045 inches to .060 inches and 6.5 feet wide rolls. The thicker the TPO material is, the more durable it is.
TPO Roofing and Modified Bitumen Roofing
Most TPO roofing systems can be easily identified in industrial communities by their white color. White is the most popular color because of its heat-reflective qualities and is considered… a “cool roof,” and (depending on the manufacturer), can be “Energy Star” rated according to Capital Improvements.
TPO comes in a variety of other colors as well, including off-white, beige, grey and black. TPO roofing systems are designed to hold up under the harsh exposure of ultraviolet light and their solar reflective quality translates into savings on air conditioning costs in the hot summer. And because of TPO’s flexibility and durability they are resistant to tears and punctures and carries a Class 4 impact rating.
When it comes to installation, TPO is quick and easy to install. It is lightweight making it easy to handle, transport, and install. It is also malleable making it easy work with around pipes and other roof hardware. And because it can be purchased in wide rolls it will cover large areas of the roof quickly. TPO is easily welded together at the seams using a heat welding machine that assures a strong, solid, and water tight seal.
