TPO (Single Ply)
TPO, or thermoplastic polyolefin is an affordable single-ply membrane which emerged over 25 years ago, and has since become the fastest-growing segment of the commercial roofing market. New Mexico roofers and building owners are quickly learning about its superior benefits. We partner with Carlisle and Johns Manville to provide the highest-quality TPO roofing systems.
Benefits of TPO
This advanced roofing membrane is manufactured from a rubber compound reinforced with polyester fabric, so it can withstand tears, punctures and years of rooftop exposure. Because TPO comes in long lengths which are heat-air welded, it’s a versatile and economical choice for buildings of all sizes and purposes, from shopping centers to restaurants to warehouses. While TPO is most popular for commercial applications, it can also be utilized on homes.
In warmer climates such as New Mexico, TPO roofing membrane has been demonstrated to last longer than nearly all flat roofing systems, making it a wise investment that will reduce maintenance and replacement costs.
- Extremely strong seams (typically the weakest part of a roofing membrane)
- Puncture-resistant material
- Great flexibility even at low temperatures
- Reflects heat and reduces energy costs
- Resistant to a variety of chemicals
- Reasonably priced
- Environmentally Friendly
Save On Operating Costs with TPO
One of TPO’s most attractive characteristics is its ability to reflect heat, keeping the interior of a building cooler and reducing the workload on the HVAC system. It is typically manufactured in white, but manufacturers are now producing additional light colors. Saving money on operating costs is easy and achievable with a TPO roof system.
Parts of a TPO Roof
A roof is more than just a covering for your home—it’s a complex system designed to protect and insulate. At Goodrich Roofing, our job is to know every detail about how your roof protects your property. Here is a quick breakdown of parts of a TPO roof and their functions.
- Decking – The decking is the flat structural base of your roof, providing a foundation for all the other roofing components. Typically made from plywood or oriented strand board (OSB), the decking is attached to the roof’s trusses or rafters, creating a solid surface that supports the roofing materials above.
- Insulation – Insulation plays a crucial role in energy efficiency and roof performance. Polyiso foam, installed mechanically, helps keep indoor temperatures stable and can add roof taper to help with drainage if necessary.
- Single Ply TPO Membrane – The TPO membrane provides a waterproof, heat-reflective, and durable roofing material with resistance to UV rays and chemicals. TPO has the ability to withstand extreme weather conditions, including heavy rain, snow, and high winds, without losing its integrity
- Seams & Flashing – Roof flashing is an important component of a roofing system designed to prevent water from affecting vulnerable points where different parts of the roof intersect or where roofing materials meet other structures. It helps ensure that these transition areas remain watertight and secure. Seams are the areas where two pieces of TPO membrane meet and are joined together. TPO seams are heat-welded using hot air, which melts the edges of the membrane and fuses them together, creating a strong, continuous, and watertight seal.
- Termination – Termination is the process of sealing and finishing the edges of the TPO membrane to ensure it remains secure and watertight where it intersects with other building elements or at the roof’s edges. The primary goal is to prevent water infiltration and ensure that the membrane stays in place, providing a complete and effective roofing system. Metal or plastic bars that are fastened along the edge of the membrane. They hold the membrane in place and create a secure seal when combined with adhesives or sealants.
- Drains – Effective drainage ensures that water is efficiently removed from the roof surface to prevent pooling, leaks, and potential damage to the roofing system and building structure. The taper of the roofing system ensures that water hitting the roof is diverted to areas where it is leaves the roof. This can be with roof drains, which are installed at areas with frequent pooling and channel water away, or with canales which are openings in the parapets that allow water to flow off the roof.
TPO Upkeep
Maintaining a TPO roof is essential to ensuring its longevity and optimal performance. Additionally, periodic inspections should be conducted to check for any signs of damage, such as punctures or seam separation, which should be promptly repaired by a professional. Proper upkeep not only extends the life of your TPO roof but also helps maintain its energy-efficient benefits. Goodrich Roofing specializes in TPO roofing inspections and repairs to ensure you get the most out of your roof.
Get a FREE TPO Roofing Installation Estimate
An effective TPO installation requires the skill of an expert contractor like Goodrich Roofing. Give us a call today at (505) 219-4450 or submit an online request form on the right. We’d be pleased to schedule a convenient time to meet with you and discuss your roofing needs.