Thermoplastic Polyolefin, also known as TPO, is a modern material used on flat roofs, typically on commercial structures, but becoming increasingly popular for residential buildings that have a flat roof. The material is a relative newcomer on the market of roofing materials, but it is already very popular due to its many great qualities. Here is what you need to know about TPO to convince yourself that it is a suitable option for your next roof.
What Is, in fact, TPO?
TPO is a system consisting of a single-ply roofing membrane made from a combination of ethylene-propylene rubber and fillers, such as talc, carbon fiber or fiberglass for enhanced strength and flexibility. The membrane is manufactured in sheets that are 10, 12 or 14 feet wide and it comes in large rolls.
The Benefits of TPO Roofs
According to Atlanta commercial roofing professionals, the physical and chemical properties of the membrane made from synthetic material come with many benefits that make the material suitable for any climate area and for any flat roofing structure. Here are some of those advantages:
- Reflectivity – TPO sheets are typically white, which is the color with the highest reflective capability. Your white TPO roof will reflect most of the sun’s heat, helping you reduce the energy needed to maintain the thermal balance inside your building. The material is also available in grey and black, which means that you can enjoy the material’s benefits even in cold climate areas, where you need your roof to retain as much solar heat as possible;
- Cost efficiency – compared to many other roofing options, TPO is a relatively affordable solution, making it possible to get the strong, new roof that you need even if you are on a tight budget;
- Durability and resistance – TPO membranes are long-lasting and able to stand up to harsh weather. They can resist the long-term exposure to UV radiation and they can be built to achieve superior resistance to fire. The strength and the flexibility of the material ensures resistance to puncturing and tearing, which means that TPO roofs keep the risk of leaks to the minimum;
- Easy installation – in terms of installation technique, TPO sheets come in various versions – some are mechanically attached, others are adhered and there are variants that are induction welded onto the roof surface. Whichever of the available options you choose, you can be sure that the installation will be quick and easy. The installation being such an easy and straightforward process, the workmanship costs related to the process are usually much lower than the labor rates associated with other types of roofing systems;
- Easy maintenance – like any roof, TPO systems also need regular cleaning and inspections, but the material’s resistance to dirt build-ups and bacterial growths will make the cleaning process easy and straightforward;
- Recyclability – TPO membranes are usually made from recycled materials and they are also fully recyclable at the end of their lifespan, thus helping you reduce the environmental footprint of your building as well as the environmental impact of your business activities.