There are many different types of flat roofing, so keeping them all straight can be a bit of a challenge. One type of flat roofing that we frequently get questions about is TPO roofing. This is a relatively new type of flat roofing, but it is increasingly popular because of its excellent features and ease of installation. Here’s everything you need to know about TPO roofing.

What is TPO?

TPO stands for thermoplastic polyolefin. This material is a blend of specific plastic polymers and rubber, that was originally designed for outdoor use in ponds. As it was designed for wet environments and to resist the impact of ultraviolet light, TPO was a great choice for roofing. Now, manufacturers create large TPO sheets that can be rolled out along the roof for installation.

What are the Benefits of TPO Roofing?

Here in California, the main benefit of TPO roofing is that it resists ultraviolet light. Its white surface reflects the light and much of the heat that would otherwise end up in your building. As ultraviolet light breaks down roofing over time, you’ll get a longer lifespan from your TPO roofing.

In addition, TPO roofing has great seam strength, meaning that the spots where different sheets connect are strong and better able to resist water than other types of roofing. This means that you’ll deal with fewer leaks and get better overall performance from the roof.

The shingle sheet of TPO roofing is more convenient to install than other roofing types that are composed of multiple layers, such as built-up roofing (BUR). The sheet is secured with an adhesive or with screws. That helps reduce the hassle of installation for you, as your roofers will be out of your hair earlier. They also won’t have to deal with tar or hot kettles, which makes installation safer too.

Repair is also simpler with TPO roofing. Typically, we can just cut out the leaking section and add a new layer of TPO.

What’s the Cost of TPO Roofing?

TPO roofing is more expensive than some other roofing materials, but for that expense, you get great performance and longevity. For some people with very large roofs, the cost isn’t worthwhile. In that case, you may prefer a cheaper kind of flat roofing that is still high quality. We can help you choose the right type of flat roofing for you.

Which TPO Roofing Product Should I Choose?

Not all TPO products are created equally. While the polymers are typically the same, the process of mixing them and turning them into a sheet can differ. We trust GenFlex TPO for our client’s roofs. GenFlex is a wider sheet at 12 feet, which means that there are fewer seams on the roof. As seams are typically where flat roof fails, reducing them is a wise way to create a better-quality roof.

GenFlex TPO also exceeds all of California’s standards for flat roofing and provides fantastic protection against high heat and other extreme weather conditions, which is perfect for our climate.

Not sure if a TPO roof is right for you? Reach out to us at Campbell Roofing to discuss your options.