What is TPO Roofing? Well, let us explain…
On your Star Improvements of MI roofing estimate you may have seen a line item called TPO. TPO stands for Thermoplastic Polyolefin and is generally an inexpensive light-colored recycled-rubber roofing material. Previously, roofers would generally use a durable synthetic rubber, or EPDM (ethylene propylene diene terpolymer) on flat roofs which has a dark surface and is slightly more expensive. The installation of TPO is different as well.
Where We Use Rubber Roofing
Some sunrooms, four season rooms, older farm houses, and porches are too low slope for shingles. Another roof type you generally see rubber roofing is commercial flat roof buildings. Very low slope or flat roofs do not provide the needed angle for proper drainage with shingles, which can cause water to pool and backup underneath causing damage and leaks.
Benefits of TPO?
- TPO gets heat welded providing an air-tight seamless connection as opposed to being glued down as is the case with EDPM.
- TPO also does not shrink therefore it doesn’t separate or pull away from edges with roof temperature variations.
- It maintains a cooler surface temperature. TPO comes in white and other light reflective colors, and a recent job site we used a thermal camera and the difference in temperature was over 30 degrees! The lighter color reflects more heat allowing your air conditioning system to work more efficiently.
- TPO has a higher resistance to punctures; up to 3 times more resistance than EPDM!
- It resists mold growth, dirt, corrosion and disintegration.
Just look at the difference between these two images!
Old cracked and patched EPDM versus new TPO! Clean, sealed, and reflecting heat.
Watch our video below of Shawn on a flat roof explaining more! Alternately, you can visit our Youtube channel for more videos.
