What Is TPO Roofing?
When it comes time to get a new roof, you have a lot of decisions to make. What type of roof do you want, which contractor should you use and what materials are best?
One of the more popular roofing systems available is TPO. TPO stands for Thermoplastic Polyolefin. This single-ply membrane is comprised of a mix of polypropylene and ethylene-propylene rubber with various fillers and chemicals.
What is TPO?
The most important thing to know about TPO roofing is that it works best on flat or very low-slope roofs. Traditional roofing materials work with the slope of the roof to prevent leaks, but TPO needs a flatter surface to keep water from pooling and damaging the membrane or roof deck underneath.
This single-ply roofing material is available in a bright white color and is highly reflective, which can save money on energy costs during the summer months by keeping the building cooler. Additionally, TPO is also flexible and durable, and it can be welded at seams to create a waterproof membrane.
Another benefit of TPO is that it can be painted, as long as the correct type of paint is used. However, it is important to note that the wrong paint can react with the TPO and cause it to deteriorate. This is why it is always recommended to choose an acrylic resin emulsion paint for your TPO roof.
Why is TPO Roofing So Popular?
TPO has many positive traits that make it a popular choice among commercial roofing professionals and building owners. It is highly durable and flexible, allowing it to adjust to the slope of your roof and maintain its integrity through natural roof movement. It is also resistant to mold spores and other pollutants, fire-proof, and energy-efficient.
Additionally, TPO does not contain any chlorine and is 100% recyclable, making it an environmentally friendly choice for your roof system. TPO roofs can often be covered by manufacturer warranties of up to 30 years, giving you peace of mind that your new roofing system will not only last for multiple decades, but will perform well for those decades.
One of the primary advantages of TPO is that its overlapping membranes are fused together through hot air-welding, which offers more reliability than other methods of installation. Other types of single-ply membranes may use mechanical fasteners or gluing to join their sections, which can lead to leaky and damaged seams over time.
What is the Installation Process?
Thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) roofing is one of the newest innovations in flat roof membranes. Its lightweight construction and durability make it an increasingly popular choice for commercial building owners and property managers.
This type of roof system is best for flat or low-slope roofs, with a slope no steeper than 2:12 (2 vertical units up for every 12 horizontal units). It can be used to replace old EPDM or PVC roof systems.
During the installation process, experienced contractors begin by preparing the substrate. This includes ensuring that all damage is repaired, drainage issues are addressed and debris is removed from the surface. They also check the structural support of the roof to ensure that it can handle the weight of the new roofing system. Once the substrate is ready, the TPO membrane is installed by heating it with hot air to create a seamless bond. The installers then cut around drains, sky lights and pipes and hand weld a covering over those areas to keep water from seeping in.
What is the Maintenance Process?
TPO offers a long-lasting, effective roof with low energy costs. It can provide protection for commercial buildings in South Jersey for years to come. However, like any roof material, it requires routine cleaning and inspections to ensure it withstands the elements and remains in good condition.
Proper maintenance of your TPO roof will help it maintain its energy efficiency, durability and resistance to the sun’s UV rays. This process includes regular cleaning, inspections for signs of damage or leaks, and prompt repair to keep the system in good working condition.
TPO membrane sheets are attached to the roof either mechanically or with adhesives. They can be installed over an existing roof or as a ballasted roof system with insulation. In a ballasted installation, the membrane is rolled out and placed over the roof deck, then anchored to it with ballast materials, such as smooth, rounded river rocks or concrete pavers. The seams are heat-welded to create a watertight seal.
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When it comes time to get a new roof, you have a lot of decisions to make. What type of roof do you want, which contractor should you use and what materials are best? One of the more popular roofing systems available is TPO. TPO stands for Thermoplastic Polyolefin. This single-ply membrane is comprised of…