When it comes to commercial roofing materials on the market, thermoplastic olefin (TPO) is growing in popularity, and for good reason. A rubber material that has been around for more than 20 years, TPO roofing features a three-layer membrane that offers some significant advantages over other commercial options available today. Below are some of TPO roofing’s distinct benefits:
- Cost-effectiveness. If you’re a budget-conscious property owner or manager looking for quality roofing, TPO is one of your best choices. Since its inception in the ‘90s, it’s made a name for itself as a cost-efficient alternative to PVC roofing. Put simply, TPO offers the same features as PVC roofing solutions: maximum thermal performance, strength and ease of maintenance—but at a notably lower price point.
- Resiliency to wear and tear. As a modern roofing solution made from innovative materials, TPO roofing is highly durable and can resist wear and tear as well as other potential damage brought about by nature. It stands out among other thermoplastic membranes because it also protects against punctures, dirt, mold and mildew, while flexibly adjusting to structural movement and settling over time. It’s also important to note that TPO roofing has fewer seams than its counterparts, leading to fewer joints in a roofing system through which leaks can travel.
- Heat fluctuation management. TPO can handle thermal expansion or contractions amazingly well, making it especially ideal in climates that see extreme fluctuations in temperature. What’s more, this material helps minimize solar heat gain, offering huge energy savings over the long haul by keeping passive heating at bay.
- Easy installation. Compared to other commercial roofing materials, TPO membranes typically come in wider sheet sizes while remaining significantly lighter. Due to this size and weight advantage, it is easier to handle, taking it less time to install.
Did You Know?
The TPO polymer material used in commercial applications has remained the same since 2000. As a matter of fact, one supplier accounts for over 90% of the polymer used by all TPO manufacturers. The material’s formulation has not been changed since.
Over time, commercial roofing systems have changed, with certain options becoming more widely used due to the advantages they offer. Keep in mind, however, that no matter what your building’s needs are, you can find quality roofing products that will suit what you’re looking for. The trick is in understanding what each material has to offer. To help you decide, don’t hesitate to consult a trusted commercial roofing expert in your area.
