Thermoplastic Olefin (TPO) roofing is gaining popularity among commercial buildings due to its impressive durability and energy efficiency. In this guide, we’ll delve into the benefits of TPO roofing, the installation process, and why it might be the perfect choice for your commercial property.
What is TPO Roofing?
TPO roofing is a single-ply membrane composed of synthetic materials and fabric reinforcements, known for its robustness and energy efficiency.
TPO roofing systems are an excellent choice for businesses looking to enhance energy efficiency and durability while keeping costs manageable.
Benefits of TPO Roofing
- Durability: TPO roofing is highly resistant to tears, impacts, and punctures, ensuring long-lasting protection for your commercial building.
- Energy Efficiency: The reflective surface of TPO roofing helps reduce cooling costs by reflecting sunlight and heat away from the building.
- Cost-Effective: TPO roofing offers long-term savings on maintenance and energy bills, making it a cost-effective roofing solution for businesses.
The Limitations of TPO Roofing
- Longevity Concerns: TPO roofing systems typically last between 10 and 25 years. However, due to varying manufacturing processes, some lower-quality membranes may not last as long.
- Excessive Heat Loads: High heat can cause TPO seams and flashings to pull apart, and cracks may form. Excessive heat may also deteriorate the top layer prematurely, increasing the risk of damage.
- Quality Variations: TPO formulations are still being perfected, so material quality can vary significantly between manufacturers.
Installation Process
- Site Assessment: We start by evaluating the existing roof structure to ensure it can support the new TPO roofing system.
- Material Preparation: Next, the TPO sheets are cut and fitted to the dimensions of your roof, ensuring a precise fit.
- Installation: Finally, the TPO sheets are adhered to the roof using heat welding, creating a seamless and durable bond.
Insulation is added to the roof surface to provide greater thermal resistance, or R-value. Higher R-values mean better insulation. Most roofing insulation comes in large rigid boards that are mechanically or chemically attached to the roof deck. These boards are staggered and tightly butted to ensure proper coverage and drainage. Types of insulation include:
- Polyiso (Polyisocyanurate): The most widely used, offering a high R-value per inch but generally at a higher cost.
- EPS (Expanded Polystyrene): Known for its high R-value and versatile use in various construction applications.
- XPS (Extruded Polystyrene): Recognized by its pink, blue, or green color, it is dense, lightweight, and offers superior water resistance.
In some cases, multiple layers of insulation may be necessary to meet state energy ratings.
Cover Board
A cover board may be needed between the insulation layer and the TPO membrane, depending on the type of insulation used. This durable substrate protects the insulation from damage. TPO can be directly applied to polyiso insulation, but a cover board is typically required for EPS and XPS insulation.
TPO Membrane
Next, the TPO membrane is secured to the substrate or cover board, either mechanically fastened with screws and plates or fully adhered with bonding adhesive. Seams and accessories are then heat welded together to form a watertight membrane.
Is TPO Roofing Right for Your Building?
When considering TPO roofing, take into account your building’s size, climate, and existing roofing materials. TPO is ideal for large commercial buildings in various climates due to its durability and energy efficiency.
Conclusion
TPO roofing offers a durable, energy-efficient solution for commercial buildings. Contact Wilson and Sons Roofing for a free consultation to see if TPO roofing is the right choice for your business.