When considering roofing systems for a flat roof, such as TPO or PVC, it’s important to take into account the expected lifespan. Commercial roofing systems need to protect your business for years, but many longer-lasting materials may cost more upfront. TPO, or thermoplastic polyolefin, is a single-ply membrane roofing material, much like PVC and EPDM. While introduced more recently than PVC, it has steadily grown in popularity for flat and low-slope roofs. If you have a roof made from TPO, it’s important to know how long you can expect it to last so that you can plan accordingly. Our commercial roofing experts here at Moser Roofing Solutions can help educate you on what you need to know about TPO roofing.
How Many Years Does a TPO Roof Last?
Typically, the lifespan of TPO roofing ranges from around 20 to 30 years after initial installation. As a commercial roofing material, this puts it roughly on par with PVC roofing, which also typically lasts for around 20 to 30 years or so, while properly installed and maintained EPDM roofs may last for around 25 to 35 years.
Factors That Affect the Lifespan of TPO Roofing
As with any commercial roofing material, the exact lifespan of TPO depends on a number of factors. Everything from local weather patterns to ongoing maintenance can shorten or prolong the lifespan of a TPO roofing system. Here are a few of the most important factors to be aware of.
Installation Issues
No matter how durable a roofing material is, it can all be undone by poor installation. For TPO roofing, the area where installation issues are more likely to occur is along the membrane’s heat-welded seams. Heat-welded seams provide protection against moisture intrusion, but it also requires a high degree of skill to complete this portion of the installation properly. In many cases, TPO roofing simply can’t live up to its expected lifespan due to frequent, repeated seam repairs throughout the life of the roofing system.
Impact Damage and Foot Traffic
TPO roofing, while durable enough as a commercial roofing material, can have its durability and longevity greatly reduced by impact damage. This is often seen with hail and high winds flinging debris onto the roof, but foot traffic can also play a role. In general, it’s best to keep foot traffic on your TPO roofing system to an absolute minimum, especially from non-roofers. Walk pads and metal walkways can protect your TPO roof against damage from HVAC personnel and other contractors potentially wearing down the membrane and seams, exposing the roof to damage.
Poor Maintenance
Proper maintenance is critical for getting the most out of any commercial roofing system, and TPO is no exception. When poorly maintained, TPO roofing may start to crack, blister, or leak through weakened seams. Drainage systems can also become clogged, leading to standing water and leaks. It’s crucial to have a commercial roofing specialist regularly inspect your TPO roof to ensure it hasn’t been compromised. This includes careful inspection of the vulnerable seams, the membrane’s surface, and drainage systems, as well as clearing debris from your roof. When it comes to single-ply roofing options, TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) and PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) are two popular choices. While both offer advantages in terms of durability, energy efficiency, and ease of installation, there are notable differences between the two materials.
What’s the Difference Between TPO and PVC Roofing?
When it comes to single-ply roofing options, TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) and PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) are two popular choices. While both offer advantages in terms of durability, energy efficiency, and ease of installation, there are notable differences between the two materials.
Material Composition
- TPO Roofing: TPO is a blend of rubber, ethylene, and propylene, reinforced with polyester. This composition provides flexibility, making TPO membranes resistant to tears and punctures.
- PVC Roofing: PVC is made from polyvinyl chloride, plasticizers, and stabilizers. PVC membranes are known for their strength and resistance to chemicals, making them suitable for environments with exposure to oils, greases, and other substances.
Performance in Extreme Temperatures
- TPO Roofing: TPO membranes typically have better heat-weldability, making them ideal for hot climates. They have excellent UV resistance and reflectivity, helping to reduce cooling costs in warmer regions.
- PVC Roofing: PVC membranes offer superior performance in cold temperatures, remaining flexible even in freezing conditions. They have better resistance to cracking and are less prone to shrinking during temperature fluctuations.
Environmental Impact
- TPO Roofing: TPO membranes are often preferred for their eco-friendly properties. They are recyclable and can contribute to LEED certification credits for sustainable building practices.
- PVC Roofing: While PVC roofing has excellent durability, it is not as environmentally friendly as TPO. PVC production involves the use of chlorine, a chemical that can have harmful environmental effects if not managed properly.
Cost Considerations
- TPO Roofing: TPO membranes are generally more cost-effective than PVC membranes, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious projects.
- PVC Roofing: PVC roofing tends to be slightly more expensive upfront due to its higher material costs. However, its durability and longevity may result in lower lifecycle costs over time.
Maximize Your TPO Roof with a Commercial Maintenance Program
The most cost-effective way to get the most from any commercial roofing system is through a complete commercial roof maintenance program. Rather than leaving you to schedule key maintenance tasks, such as inspections, cleaning, and proactive repairs, a full maintenance plan puts the management of your roof in the hands of commercial roofing professionals. At Moser Roofing Solutions, our Roof Guardian commercial roof maintenance plan is designed to maximize your investment and extend the life of your commercial roofing system.
Let Us Care for Your TPO Roof!
If you have an existing TPO roofing system, Moser Roofing Solutions is the ideal commercial roofing partner to make the most of it while protecting your people, property, and possessions. Our Roof Guardian plan includes two diagnostic roof inspections each year, along with priority scheduling and immediate repairs. We specialize in helping business owners throughout Pennsylvania and the Mid-Atlantic region get the most from their commercial roofing systems. And if your TPO roofing system has reached the end of its service life, our experienced roofing craftsmen will work with you to plan a full roof replacement that will protect your business for decades to come. Contact us today!
