Thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) single-ply roofing system membranes are among the fastest growing commercial roofing products due to their performance and installation advantages. TPO roofing is comprised of three layers―a polymer base, a strong, polyester-reinforced fabric center, and a durable thermoplastic polyolefin compounded top ply. The two materials that make up TPO roofing are polypropylene and ethylene-propylene rubber.
TPO Advantages
Not sold on TPO roofing yet? There are several benefits to this type of rubber roofing for residential, commercial, and industrial properties.
- Resistant to ultraviolet radiation, ozone, algae, and chemical exposure
- More resistant to tears, impacts, and punctures than other single ply membranes
- Heat reflective and energy efficient (ENERGY STAR® rated)
- Easy to maintain
- Economical and reliable
- Permanently welded seams
- Lightweight and flexible
TPO Roofing Installation
A TPO system can be installed on just about any roof using a variety of installation methods. TPO materials can be easily installed over existing roof material such as metal or flat roofs and the materials are resistant to harsh weather.
The two most common assemblies are:
1. Fully Adhered System
The fully adhered system is lightweight but provides outstanding design flexibility. It is best suited for contoured roofs, roofs with irregular shape, and any roof with limited load-bearing capacity. To install a fully adhered thermoplastic roof, a special adhesive is used. The adhesive chemically bonds the membrane to the roof base.
1. Fully Adhered System
The fully adhered system is lightweight but provides outstanding design flexibility. It is best suited for contoured roofs, roofs with irregular shape, and any roof with limited load-bearing capacity. To install a fully adhered thermoplastic roof, a special adhesive is used. The adhesive chemically bonds the membrane to the roof base.
TPO Roofing Cost
With all of the benefits that come along with a TPO roofing system, what can you expect as far as the cost? The following is a breakdown of what you can expect for TPO roofing prices.
Installation Costs
Out of all flat roofing materials, TPO is considered to be one of the longest lasting and durable options. As such, the average cost to install a TPO membrane is currently about $5.50-$6 per square foot. Your total cost will depend on a number of factors including roof size and complexity, membrane thickness, insulation quality, replacement of damage, and labor charges.
To quickly estimate your flat roof replacement cost using TPO, check out this roofing calculator.
Material Costs
The cost of the TPO membrane alone does not properly represent your total cost. Your total cost will include the costs of installation by a professional roofing company. However, TPO roofing material costs range from $160 to $500 per square (one square=100 square feet).
Clearly, there are many benefits to installing a TPO roofing system. This type of roof is resistant to harsh weather, several types of chemicals, and is easy to maintain. TPO roofing systems also reflect heat during the summer and absorb heat during the winter, making them great energy savers. Beyond that, the materials are environmentally safe and can be recycled.
Contact Rainville Carlson to learn more about our TPO roof installation services. Our experts provide high-quality roofing systems to our clients and we work with a number of trusted manufacturers. We would love to install a TPO roof system for your home, business, or industrial property!
