T.P.O.

what is it?

is a non-reinforced thermoplastic polyolefin based membrane used for field fabricated pipe flashings, sealant pockets and scuppers when the use of a pre-molded accessory is not feasible.

Thermoplastic Polyolefin is a single-ply roofing membrane that is one of the fastest-growing commercial roofing systems on the market. TPO roofing systems are a single layer of synthetics and reinforcing scrim used to cover flat roofs.

TPO membranes are manufactured in sheets 10, 12, or 20 feet wide. These sheets are then rolled up and taken to the commercial facility.

TPO has gained industry acceptance with its naturally reflective surface to reflect UV rays. The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) reported that TPO takes up about 40% of the commercial roofing market share.

TPO ROOFING INSTALLATION

After the existing substrate is prepared, either by cleaning or removing the existing roof, the insulation is installed. There are a few types of insulation options the facility manager/owner can choose from:

Polyisocyanurate (Polyiso) – The most used insulation type for roofing applications, Polyiso is more expensive but pays off with a higher R-value rating.

Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) – With the highest R-value per dollar, EPS is used for roof, wall, and floor insulation. EPS can be used for ground contact and does not retain water over time.

Extruded Polystyrene (XPS) – Usually defined by the blue, green, or pink color, XPS falls between Polyiso and EPS in the price range and performance range. XPS is semipermeable with a perm rating of 1.

The TPO membrane can be attached to the cover board with a bonding adhesive or mechanically fastened. When the membrane is rolled out, the contractor returns and uses a hot-air gun to weld the seams together.

ADVANTAGES OF TPO ROOFING

A commercial single-ply membrane roof can last 30 years if properly installed and maintained. There are quite a few other benefits of single-ply membrane roofing systems:

Finished TPO roof section

Customer Choice of Insulation – Since single-ply does not include the insulation factor, as a customer, you have more options to choose from to insulate your facility’s roof.

Class A Fire-Rated – TPO membranes and EPDM can achieve Underwriters Laboratories (UL) Class A fire resistance listings by adding fire retardant chemicals during manufacturing.

Reflective or Retentive – TPO is generally white and highly reflective. On the other side of the spectrum, EPDM is often described as “Black Roofs” due to the naturally dark color of the membrane.