Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) membranes are single-ply roofing materials popularly used for green roofing. This material can be fully adhered, mechanically fastened, or ballasted. When the roof is fully adhered, it is glued to the substrate with a special adhesive. A mechanically fastened roof, however, is attached by using a special screw-type fastener. A ballasted membrane, on the other hand, is laid over the top of the roof, sealed at all penetrations, and ballast is put on it to hold it in place.

This type of roofing material is designed to combine the strength of EPDM rubber and the excellent performance of hot air weldable seams. As a result, the seam strength of TPO membranes is known to be higher by three to four times than those of EPDM systems. They are highly resistant to tears, impacts, and punctures.

TPO membranes are available in three colors: white, grey, and black. However, if you want to decrease the “heat island effect” and the solar heat gain inside the building, it is advisable to use white roofing material.

Thermoplastic Polyolefin roof systems can last from ten to twenty years, depending on the method of installation used by the roofer. Other contributors to its longevity are the full removal of an existing roof (a TPO roof system will last longer if the old roof is removed down to the deck before the new roof was installed), the slope, weather conditions in the area, and how often the roof is maintained by a professional roofer.

Montgomery Contractors

Biscoe, North Carolina

“Carolina’s Commercial Flat Roofing expert”