TPO Roofing Material: An In-Depth Guide
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A high-quality, sturdy roof can protect your home from the elements, provide an attractive finish, and improve your property’s long-term value. One way to enhance your roof and prolong its life is to add thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) roofing. This rubber roofing material is a cost-effective and energy-efficient option for flat rooftops that also helps lower air pollution and assists in protecting a home’s overall structural integrity. In this guide, we’ll review the benefits of TPO roofing, how it compares to other roofing materials, and how to install and maintain this type of roofing.
What Is TPO Roofing Material?
TPO roofing is a single-ply, white mixture of synthetic rubber and polypropylene. It repels moisture from a roof and resists heat, oxidation, and other weather elements. Installing TPO roofing over an existing roof can help keep your home cooler since the single-ply membrane construction works to maintain cooler temperatures indoors while repelling extreme heat.
- TPO roofing generally lasts between 15 and 30 years with proper care and routine roof maintenance. Its flexibility makes it less likely to crack, and its lightweight construction doesn’t put much pressure or weight on your roof.
TPO Roofing Material vs. Other Materials
TPO roofing material is relatively new but quickly became popular due to its long life span and flexibility. Below is a look at how it compares to other roofing materials.
TPO vs. EPDM
Ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) roofing is another type of roofing material often used on flat roofs. EPDM roofing typically lasts around 30 years, while TPO roofing lasts anywhere from 15–30 years with regular maintenance.
EPDM and TPO roofing are durable, but EPDM is slightly more weather-resistant. TPO roofing is resistant to materials such as oil and grease, while EPDM isn’t and could break down if it comes into contact with a corrosive chemical. TPO and EPDM are also both fire-resistant and easy to maintain.
TPO vs. PVC
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) roofing is another popular option for homeowners looking to extend their roof’s life span. This type of roofing has a flame-resistant membrane comparable to TPO roofing. PVC roofing is used on low-slope roofs and contains two layers of PVC with a polyester reinforcement scrim in between the layers.
The top layer of PVC contains additives to make the TPO roofing membrane UV-resistant, while the second layer has plasticizers that make the material flexible and easy to install. The biggest difference between TPO and PVC roofing is that PVC has been used for decades, while TPO is relatively new.
Both types of materials are flame-resistant and long-lasting, but TPO roofing is slightly stronger than PVC.
How To Install TPO Roofing Material
Hiring a professional to install TPO roofing is a good option if you’re on a tight timeline and need the roofing membrane installed in a few days. Additionally, a roofing contractor will have the tools and expertise to complete the job safely and efficiently and typically include a warranty with their work.
However, you can install TOP roofing yourself if you want to save money on installation costs. Installing it on your own requires gathering the appropriate roofing products and tools, including safety gloves, your preferred type of insulation, fasteners, and a hammer. Don’t attempt the installation on a rainy day.
Follow these steps to install TPO roofing on your own:
- Inspect your roof for damage. If you notice damaged shingles, repair or replace them before proceeding with the installation.
- Install insulation on your roof deck if you’re removing your existing roofing. Insulation is necessary for any roofing project because it reduces energy costs and helps regulate your home’s temperature.
- Lay down the TPO membrane, ensuring it overlaps appropriately at the seams and edges.
- Secure the TOP membrane with fasteners and create a watertight seal with a hot air gun.
- Install flashing around any roof penetrations to keep your roof structurally sound.
- Conduct an inspection after the installation. If you notice any issues, uneven edges, or areas that don’t seem aligned, consider hiring a professional roofer to inspect your work.
Maintaining Your TPO Roof
TPO roofing is very durable but requires regular maintenance to keep it looking and performing its best. Take care of your TPO roof by scheduling regular inspections. A licensed, experienced roofing company can help you identify potential issues before they cause more severe damage. Ensure the roofers check the TPO membrane during their inspection and repair any damage or punctures they notice.
If you experience extreme weather, hire a roofer to check the roof as soon as possible. Remove any branches that come into contact with your roof and service the gutters, removing debris, leaves, and stuck branches. Check the seal on your roof regularly and fix or replace any damaged shingles.
Cost of TPO Roofing Material
TPO roofing costs $4–$10* per square foot, and the national average cost for a 1,500-square-foot roof is $10,700. Some factors that could affect the cost of your roofing project include the contractor you hire and your roof size. Experienced roofers with a history of working with TPO roofing might charge more than smaller contracting companies that haven’t been in business as long. Additionally, TPO roofing is designed for flat roofs or those with a low pitch. The project will likely cost more if you have a large roof or one with a unique structure.
You should establish a budget before your TPO installation. Outline how much you’re willing to spend on roofing, including the cost of installation and materials, and don’t hesitate to interview different contractors until you find one that suits your budgetary needs.
*Cost data via HomeGuide and Angi.
Our Conclusion
TPO roofing is a cost-effective way to lower energy costs while enhancing the appearance of your roof. It’s also a great option for homeowners who want to extend the life of their roof and live a more environmentally friendly lifestyle. TPO roofing is easy to install, but we recommend hiring a professional to complete the job since some aspects of the installation require specific tools and know-how.
FAQ About TPO Roofing Material
What are the disadvantages of TPO roofing?
TPO roofing is a good option for residential roofing projects, but it’s not the most attractive roofing material and is better for commercial building projects. TPO is also relatively new to the market, so it doesn’t have an established track record compared to other types of roofing materials.
How long will a TPO roof last?
A TPO roof can last between 15 and 30 years with proper care and regular maintenance. You should inspect your roof more often to safeguard against damage and extend its life span if you live in an area prone to harsh weather.
Is TPO better than EPDM?
TPO is not necessarily better than EPDM. Both types of roofing systems are durable, although EPDM is slightly more weather-resistant and lasts around 30 years on average.
What goes under a TPO roof?
If you’re installing a TPO roof over your existing roof, install asphalt shingles under it. If you’re removing your existing roof before installing TPO roofing, place a layer of insulation around your roof deck to keep the temperature in your home consistent.
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