TPO roofing is a common choice for industrial and commercial roofs. It's a roofing material to consider when your building has a flat roof and needs protection from water ponding, leaks, or chemical and grease exposure. Here's a look at how this roofing is made and installed.

How TPO Roofing Is Made

TPO roofing is made of synthetic materials and takes some of the best qualities of each component. This makes the roofing resistant to damage from UV exposure, heat, water, chemicals, grease, and fungal growth. The result is a thermoplastic membrane that is ideal for protecting flat roofs in harsh environments.

The membranes are usually bright white and reflective, so they resist solar heating and have an attractive appearance. The roofing is manufactured in sheets of various widths, thicknesses, and lengths, and then rolled up so it can be shipped to commercial roofing sites.

How TPO Roofing Is Seamed Together

Since many commercial buildings are quite large, the TPO membranes have to be joined together to cover the roof. Seams are the weak point where water is concerned, but the seams of TPO roofing are usually strong. That's because they are heat welded so the seams fuse together. This makes the roofing watertight, which is essential for a flat roof.

How TPO Roofing Is Installed

A TPO membrane can be installed over old roofing, as long as the roof is still structurally sound and the old roof is cleaned. In some cases, the roofer may recommend removing the old roofing, and in that case, the membrane can be used as the only layer of roofing.

Insulation is usually put down first in the form of a cover board so the membrane can attach to the board. The membrane can be held down with adhesive, fasteners, or a layer of gravel.

How TPO Roofs Are Repaired

A TPO membrane should last a few decades, but like any roofing material, it can slowly deteriorate as it ages. The roof might also be damaged by foot traffic. A TPO roof is fairly easy to repair since it can be heat welded. The roofer can repair a loose seam by heat welding it, and they can repair a puncture by patching it with a piece of TPO membrane that's heat welded over the damaged area.

A TPO roof should be checked regularly and repaired as soon as damage is detected so your commercial roof stays free of leaks. TPO roofing can provide years of protection, look attractive on your building, and even help reduce summer cooling bills thanks to its reflective, cool nature.