TPO-EPDM Roofing
When dealing with single-ply membrane roofing for your commercial property the most common question we hear is “what is the difference between TPO and EPDM?” That is not a simple question to answer. To truly understand the difference between them you must first understand what single-ply roofing is.
Single-ply membrane roofing is made up of sheets of synthetic polymer (synthetic rubber or thermoplastics are the two main kinds). These are mostly used on commercial properties because they are a flat roofing system. However, they are sometimes used for residential properties as well.
These two groups are better known as TPO and EPDM.
TPO Pros:
TPO stands for Thermoplastic Polyolefin. This is the first type of single-ply membrane roofing and consists of a synthetic thermoplastic made up of polypropylene and ethylene-propylene rubber.
Cost: There are some serious advantages of TPO that make it a very popular roofing choice. First, it is cheap to use. So for businesses TPO is often used to help save money.
Energy Efficient: The second advantage would be the white color. Unlike other blacktop roofing, white doesn’t absorb as much of the sun’s rays, helping to keep the roof and the building cooler and more energy efficient. However, if you are looking for something darker for aesthetic reasons, TPO does also come in black or grey and still provides a decent level of energy efficiency.
Durability: TPO is also very durable. It is resistant to tears and dirt build-up. They also stand up well to severe weather like hail and heavy rain. Overall it has an average life expectancy of around 15 to 20 years but does require regular maintenance and upkeep.
TPO Cons:
Heat: The only really big disadvantage to TPO roofing is the durability against heat. TPO does not do well when subjected to serious heat, which we get a lot of here in Texas. When subjected to a lot of serious heat from the sun TPO can start to break down and lose its strength.
EPDM Pros:
EPDM stands for Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer and is made up of a more flexible synthetic rubber.
Cost: EPDM roofing is even cheaper to use than thermoplastic making it also a popular choice amongst businesses looking to save money. Because of how quick and easy it is to install, EPDM isn’t only cheaper for the materials but also cheaper on labor costs.
Lifespan: For this roofing material, it’s not uncommon to see EPDM roofs last 30 or more years with little to no issues. Some can even last upwards of 50 years, making these a great choice when it comes to longevity.
Durability: When it comes to strength, EPDM makes the cut. It is resistant to heavy rainfall, dramatic temperature changes, and even hailstones. Because of its durability against all sorts of severe weather, it is a great choice for our hash and ever-changing climate here in Texas.
EPDM Cons:
Visual: Even though EPDM does come in different colors, it is still a flat sheet that is very plain. Many people opt to use another finishing such as ballast (small rocks) to help give it more texture and help to preserve the rubber membrane.
Trying to decide between TPO and EPDM is a difficult decision to make on your own. If you want to know more about what single-ply membrane roofing options you have give us a call. We can even help you with a free estimate, contact us today to learn more about what roof is best for you.
When dealing with single-ply membrane roofing for your commercial property the most common question we hear is “what is the difference between TPO and EPDM?” That is not a simple question to answer. To truly understand the difference between them you must first understand what single-ply roofing is.
Single-ply membrane roofing is made up of sheets of synthetic polymer (synthetic rubber or thermoplastics are the two main kinds). These are mostly used on commercial properties because they are a flat roofing system. However, they are sometimes used for residential properties as well.
These two groups are better known as TPO and EPDM.
TPO Pros:
TPO stands for Thermoplastic Polyolefin. This is the first type of single-ply membrane roofing and consists of a synthetic thermoplastic made up of polypropylene and ethylene-propylene rubber.
Cost: There are some serious advantages of TPO that make it a very popular roofing choice. First, it is cheap to use. So for businesses TPO is often used to help save money.
Energy Efficient: The second advantage would be the white color. Unlike other blacktop roofing, white doesn’t absorb as much of the sun’s rays, helping to keep the roof and the building cooler and more energy efficient. However, if you are looking for something darker for aesthetic reasons, TPO does also come in black or grey and still provides a decent level of energy efficiency.
Durability: TPO is also very durable. It is resistant to tears and dirt build-up. They also stand up well to severe weather like hail and heavy rain. Overall it has an average life expectancy of around 15 to 20 years but does require regular maintenance and upkeep.
TPO Cons:
Heat: The only really big disadvantage to TPO roofing is the durability against heat. TPO does not do well when subjected to serious heat, which we get a lot of here in Texas. When subjected to a lot of serious heat from the sun TPO can start to break down and lose its strength.
EPDM Pros:
EPDM stands for Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer and is made up of a more flexible synthetic rubber.
Cost: EPDM roofing is even cheaper to use than thermoplastic making it also a popular choice amongst businesses looking to save money. Because of how quick and easy it is to install, EPDM isn’t only cheaper for the materials but also cheaper on labor costs.
Lifespan: For this roofing material, it’s not uncommon to see EPDM roofs last 30 or more years with little to no issues. Some can even last upwards of 50 years, making these a great choice when it comes to longevity.
Durability: When it comes to strength, EPDM makes the cut. It is resistant to heavy rainfall, dramatic temperature changes, and even hailstones. Because of its durability against all sorts of severe weather, it is a great choice for our hash and ever-changing climate here in Texas.
EPDM Cons:
Visual: Even though EPDM does come in different colors, it is still a flat sheet that is very plain. Many people opt to use another finishing such as ballast (small rocks) to help give it more texture and help to preserve the rubber membrane.
Trying to decide between TPO and EPDM is a difficult decision to make on your own. If you want to know more about what single-ply membrane roofing options you have give us a call. We can even help you with a free estimate, contact us today to learn more about what roof is best for you.
TPO/EPDM services in Dallas
TPO and EPDM professional contractor in Austin TX
TPO and EPDM professional contractor in San Antonio TX
