If you’re thinking about installing a new roof on your home or business, one of the first things you need to decide is what type of roof you want. There are many different types of roofing materials, ranging from asphalt shingles to metal and everything in between. In addition to the more common and traditional roofing choices, you also have the option of choosing TPO roofing. 

TPO roofing, which stands for thermoplastic polyolefin, is a fairly common material in the roofing industry. It’s unlike any of the traditional choices, such as metal, shingles, wood slates, or clay tile. Instead, it’s commonly used on flat roofs, commercial properties, and mobile homes. If you’re curious and want to know more about TPO roofing, you’ve come to the right place. 

What Exactly is TPO Roofing? 

TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) roofing is a fairly common roofing material for commercial properties and flat roofs. Although it first hit the market in the 1990s and has been used occasionally since then, TPO roofing is becoming an increasingly popular roofing option. It’s often used in place of rubber and PVC roofing, typically with flat or low-slope installations. 

TPO roofing consists of three layers packed into a single membrane. The outermost layer, TPO compounded top ply, is a white membrane that’s ideal for reflecting heat rather than absorbing and retaining it. The middle layer, polyester-reinforced skrim, provides insulation and strength, and the innermost layer, the TPO polymer base, adheres perfectly to the base of the roof. Together, these three layers compose TPO roofing in all of its glory. 

Although TPO roofing was once a bit of an afterthought, it’s the most popular roofing material for flat roofs. In fact, TPO roofing makes up roughly 40% of all roofing materials used on flat-roof installations. Its durability, ability to reflect heat, and aesthetics make it an excellent option for both residential and commercial installations. 

Common Applications for TPO Roofing 

As with rubber and PVC, TPO roofing is best utilized on flat or very low-slope roofs. This roofing material comes in flat sheets that are from 10 to 20 feet long and is relatively easy to install. Because of how simplistic it is in design and implementation and the fact that it deflects water like a pro, TPO roofing is perfect for flat roofs or those with a pitch that’s less than 2:12. 

The most common use for TPO roofing is on commercial properties or modern homes. However, it’s also used on RVs, mobile homes, travel trailers, and similar implementations. 

How Much Does TPO Roofing Cost? 

One of the reasons that TPO roofing is so popular is because of how cost-effective it is. Unlike rubber and PVC, which can get very pricy, TPO is very affordable and low-cost. On average, TPO roofing tends to cost between $3.50 and $7 per square foot. However, for higher-quality TPO roofing, the cost can be as high as $14 per square foot. In most cases, however, TPO roofing is just as, if not more affordable, than flat-roof alternatives. 

How Long Does TPO Roofing Last? 

In addition to being highly affordable, TPO roofing also lasts longer than most competing options. The big knock against flat roofs is that they require frequent repairs and maintenance. TPO, however, while not impermeable to damage, is far more resistant. On average, you can expect to get 20 to 30 years of life out of your TPO roof and it should last slightly longer than other types of flat roofing. 

Pros and Cons of TPO Roofing 

If you’re still on the fence about whether or not TPO is the right roofing material for you, let’s look at some of the pros and cons of using it. 

Pros of TPO Roofing 

Quick and Easy Installation 

One of the biggest advantages of TPO roofing is that it’s easy to install. As a result, you can save money on time because your roofing contractor can quickly knock out the installation. In addition to being quick and easy to install, TPO roofing is also easy to repair when the time comes. Contact us at KangaRoof if you want a fast, affordable TPO roofing installation. 

Affordable 

As we said before, TPO roofing is a fairly affordable option. It’s also cheaper to install, thanks to how quick and easy the job is. 

Durable 

In addition to being surprisingly strong and resistant to leaks, TPO roofing is durable in other ways. Because of how it’s constructed, TPO is resistant to mold, mildew, UV radiation damage, grime, and dirt. It’s also a very flexible material that can shift according to the weather and how the rest of the building moves. 

Eco-Friendly 

One of the reasons that TPO roofing is exploding in popularity is because of how eco-friendly it is. Most TPO roofs are made from 100% recycled materials, and installing a TPO roof is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint. 

Easy Leak Detection 

Because of how TPO roofing gets installed, it’s very easy to find and repair leaks, especially if you know what to look for.  

Reduces Energy Costs 

Finally, if you typically have high cooling bills during the summer, it’s likely because your roof is absorbing the sun’s heat and can’t reflect it. For that reason, people are turning to TPO roofs. TPO roofs consist of a white outer membrane that reflects the sun’s heat rather than absorbing it. As a result, the inside of your building will feel cooler, and your AC won’t have to run non-stop to keep up. 

Cons of TPO Roofing

The only real disadvantage of TPO roofing is conjoined with one of its biggest advantages – its’ thickness. Because TPO roofing consists of a single layer, it’s very easy to install. However, because it’s only a single layer, there are some who think that TPO roofing is too thin and, therefore, prone to leaks. Time has shown, though, that as long as TPO roofing gets installed correctly, it’s as resistant to leaks as any other roofing material. 

Who to Contact For TPO Roofing Installation

If you’re ready to invest in the last flat roof you’ll ever need, contact us at KangaRoof for a TPO roofing installation. TPO roofing is on the cutting edge when it comes to flat roofing materials, and it’s the fastest-growing option on the market. Whether you have a home or business, TPO roofing is ideal for any flat or low-slope roofing installation, and you’re sure to reap the rewards it yields.