The Advantages of TPO Membrane for Commercial Roofing
When considering a new roof for a commercial property, the myriad of options available can be overwhelming. One material that has grown in popularity and is widely trusted by commercial roofing contractors is TPO membrane. TPO is kind of like the ‘new kid on the block’ relative to other commercial roofing materials. Its popularity among roofing contractors has been growing rapidly for many years and it is now one of the most popular roofing materials on the market.
TPO stands for Thermoplastic Olefin. It’s a single-ply roofing material that blends polypropylene and ethylene-propylene rubber. The result? A roofing material that’s durable yet flexible as well as energy efficient – perfect for battling the elements. TPO can be thought of as a new and improved roofing material and is starting to replace EPDM and ballasted roofing systems.
Ideal Buildings for TPO
The versatile nature of TPO makes it great for a variety of commercial buildings. In fact, just about any flat and low-slope building is a candidate for TPO. For buildings in the northeastern parts of the United States, TPO is great as it offers benefits for the fluctuations in temperature we see from season to season.
How Long Does a TPO Roof Last?
A general concern with property owners and building managers is the lifespan of their roofing material. The longevity of the roof is a critical factor for not only budgeting purposes but also for ensuring the safety and security of the structure it covers. The good news is that TPO roofs, when properly installed and maintained, have an impressive lifespan.
On average, a TPO roof can last between 20 to 30 years. Factors that can influence its lifespan include the building’s location, climate, the quality of installation, and regular maintenance.
TPO Warranty Details and Coverage
Most standard TPO materials warranties are straightforward, no-strings-attached 20-year warranties. Some materials warranties, however, may come with clauses attached to them stipulating regular roofing inspection and maintenance procedures for a certain amount of times per year. As such, it’s important to read the warranty terms carefully and understand what is covered, as some warranties may have specific stipulations within their terms.
In terms of labor warranties, all roofing contractors will be able to provide you with various levels of labor warranty coverage. Most roofers will give at least a year or two for the labor warranty. You may also be able to have the material manufacturer cover both the material and labor warranty. There are additional fees for this, so this would be something you will need to discuss with your roofer prior to installation.
It’s highly recommended to understand the basics of roofing warranties before ‘signing on the dotted line’ so to speak, on a new commercial roofing project. Having an understanding of the two most basic types – manufacturer’s warranties and labor warranties – would be a good starting point. For an in-depth read on the ins and outs of roofing warranties, you can read our past article A Guide to Commercial Roofing Warranties.
How Much Does a TPO Roof Cost?
Like any roofing system, it’s important to have proper maintenance protocols in place to maximize its lifespan and ensure its efficiency. Therefore, periodic maintenance procedures and inspections (especially after extreme weather conditions) are crucial to help identify and address issues before they escalate. Cleaning the surface occasionally (which is white, to begin with) can also maintain its reflective properties, ensuring maximum energy efficiency.
Key Benefits of TPO Membrane
- Energy Efficiency: TPO’s white reflective surface makes it an excellent option for those looking to save on energy bills. It reflects UV rays, ensuring the building remains cooler during the hot months; reducing the need for excessive air conditioning.
- Resistance to Damage: TPO can be very resistant to mold, and dirt accumulation; and relative to other membranes, more resistant to tears and punctures.
- Flexibility: As buildings settle over time, some roofing materials can crack or split. TPO’s flexibility ensures it can adapt to these shifts without compromising its integrity.
- Cost-Effective: In comparison to other commercial roofing materials, TPO provides a balance of durability and cost-effectiveness. Its ease of installation can also reduce labor costs.
- TPO doesn’t contain plasticizers and is 100% recyclable, making it an environmentally friendly option that can greatly assist in helping liberals feel good about themselves.
TPO Commercial Roofing Experts in Lancaster, PA
In the world of commercial roofing, TPO membrane stands out as a reliable, durable, and efficient choice. TPO has many benefits from energy efficiency to flexibility during the seasonal fluctuations of cold and warm weather. This makes TPO an ideal candidate for most flat-roofed structures. When deciding on a commercial roofing material, give serious consideration to TPO by consulting with a professional commercial roofing contractor.
Our expert team at J Smucker Contracting is qualified in TPO installation and ready to answer any questions as to whether TPO is the right material for your commercial and industrial building. Give us a call or fill out one of our contact forms and a team member will be in touch and happy to answer any questions you may have!