TPO Roofing: Everything You Need to Know
Things to Know Before Having a TPO Roof Installed
If you’ve seen bright white roofs on buildings in Southeast Michigan, you may be familiar with TPO roofing without realizing it. It’s becoming a more and more popular choice due to its low cost and durability. TPO stands for Thermoplastic Polyolefin, a single-ply roofing membrane that is composed of rubber and other synthetic materials. As it is naturally UV-reflective, TPO roofing is an economical option to add a layer of protection to your roof.
TPO Roofing Installation
TPO membrane roofing comes in 10-20-foot rolls, which makes it easy to apply to flat surfaces. However, don’t attempt to install TPO roofing on your own. That is a task best left to professionals, such as the licensed and insured roofing contractors at First Response Roofing and Construction, LLC. It can be chemically adhered or mechanically fastened to your roof, and an expert will be able to determine which one is the better option for your building.
Before the TPO membrane is installed, the substrate is prepared, and then a layer of insulation is installed. Depending on your budget and the amount of insulation you need, you can choose from one of the following insulation options:
- Polyisocyanurate (Polyiso). While this may be the most expensive option, its high R-value rating makes it the most popular choice for roofing applications.
- Expanded Polystyrene (EPS). This material provides the best R-rating for dollar value and can be used to insulate roofs, walls, and floors, including floors that contact the ground.
- Extruded Polystyrene (XPS). A mid-value option that falls between the other two in terms of price and performance.
TPO Roofing Costs
In general, TPO roofing installation runs between $3.50 and $7.50 a square foot for materials and labor for an average commercial roof. However, one of our roofing experts would be able to give you a more precise estimate depending on:
- The size, condition, and accessibility of your roof
- The type of membrane and insulation you choose
- The type of installation method needed, and whether roof penetrations are required
- The type of warranty offered for installation and materials
Advantages of TPO Roofing
There are reasons that TPO roofing is rising in popularity. Many building owners like the flexibility of being able to choose the best insulation option that works for them. In addition, they enjoy the following benefits:
- Installing TPO roofing saves money. TPO is a relatively inexpensive roofing material, and its ease of installation keeps the labor costs down. Not only that, but a new TPO roof can lower your property insurance premiums.
- TPO Roofing is energy efficient. TPO roofing also saves you money by reducing your energy bill. The material reflects UV rays, which means you don’t have to run the air conditioning as often to keep the building cool in the summer.
- TPO is extremely durable. TPO is very resistant to the high winds in Southeast Michigan. In addition, it resists mold, bacteria, algae, and corrosion. The durable material is not prone to tears, punctures, or buildup of debris.
- TPO helps save the environment. In addition to wasting less energy when using your HVAC system, TPO is 100% recyclable.
How TPO Roofing Is Repaired
A newly installed TPO roof should last you up to 15-20 years. However, sometimes they do need occasional repairs during that timeframe. If you are noticing leaks coming into the building, that is a sign that the seams have become damaged, and water has seeped through the insulation. Should that occur, you should contact us for a roofing inspection so that our experts can determine if the roof can be repaired or needs replacement. Once the seams begin failing, they should be repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
Expert TPO Roofing Installation and Repair in Port Huron
At First Response Roofing and Construction, LLC, we have been providing high-quality roofing and construction services in Port Huron for more than 25 years. Our customer service is second to none, and we guarantee our TPO installations and repairs will last for decades.
If you’re unsure if your roof is in need of repairs or replacement, you can check out our FAQ page for more information or give us a call at 810-294-5009.