Pros and Cons of TPO Roofing
Here is what a popular site has to say about TPO Commercial Roofing
What is TPO?
The TPO membrane was first introduced to the roofing market in the early 1990’s as a more economical and efficient alternative that was thought to replace PVC roofing products. TPO is a single ply roofing system that consisting of a thermoplastic polyolefin membrane. This membrane is composed of three layers:
1. TPO polymer base.
2. polyester-reinforced fabric center (scrim).
3.thermoplastic polyolefin compounded top ply.
Pros and Cons of TPO Roofing
If you are looking to install a single ply roofing membrane that will be energy efficient and are evaluating your options, consider TPO (thermoplastic olefin) roofing. TPO is touted to have the benefits of two of its direct competitors EPDM and PVC roofs, but without the drawbacks and extra costs. This means that a TPO roof is as UV-resistant and as heat-resistant as EPDM, and as heat-weldable as PVC. As any roofing material, TPO also has a few disadvantages and shortcomings. EDPM is sometimes more cost effective than TPO (albeit not by much). Before purchasing a TPO membrane for your home or commercial building, carefully consider all the pros and cons of TPO roofing.
Benefits of TPO Roofing
Economical
One of the factors that makes TPO roofing attractive both in residential and commercial construction is its reasonable cost. TPO offers many of the same benefits as PVC roofing, such as hot-air weldable seams and energy efficiency, but at a lower cost.
Fits different home styles
Durable
In comparison to other thermoplastic membranes, TPO resists mold growth, dirt accumulation, tears impact and punctures. It is made to be flexible and can allow for a home’s or building’s movement or settling. Reinforced TPO membranes can handle a building’s thermal expansion and contraction more effectively than other single ply roofing products.
Ease of installation
In general TPO membranes are manufactured with wider sheets and are light weight. This means that the material is easier to install and there are less seams. Less work and time associated with the installation translates into direct savings for you for the cost of installation.
Energy Efficient
The energy efficiency of TPO roofing membranes makes them highly attractive to home owners who want to have the benefits of savings on their cooling costs as well as help the environment by reducing the carbon footprint. TPO’s membrane’s white reflective surface exceeds the EPA’s ENERGY STAR requirements and white, tan and gray are listed with the Cool Roof Rating Council. This means that having a TPO roof on your home or building will keep the interior thermally comfortable on hot summer days while reducing your air conditioning costs.