Why TPO (and Why not EPDM)?
Looking for a durable, reliable, energy-efficient, low-slope roof? Torn between EPDM and rising industry favourite TPO?
TPO systems have grown from a tiny share of the single-ply roofing market to the #1 choice, making up more than 50% of the single-ply market. This durable, cost-effective roofing solution is growing in popularity throughout Alberta. When you choose TPO, you get more than a reliable membrane. You get the peace of mind that comes
from knowing that the #1 choice of commercial roofing professionals is protecting your valuable assets.
The following are the top five reasons to choose a TPO roof for your next low-slope roof.
Energy Efficiency
Punctures often equal leaks. TPO offers greater puncture resistance than reinforced EPDM, and up to three times the puncture resistance of non-reinforced EPDM of the same thickness.On average, electricity costs 4 times more, per BTU, than natural gas. That doesn’t even include electricity demand charges, which can account for 30 — 70% of a total electricity bill. Want to know more? Check out this Cool Roofing page.
Picture Resistance
TPO has better dimensional stability than EPDM. EPDM is more likely to shrink which can cause splits in the seams along with a variety of other problems on your roof. EPDM roofs need to be monitored and maintained regularly which can be a complicated process if you choose a ballasted EPDM option.
Installation Convenience
Reflective TPO can help save money on energy costs*compared to dark EPDM in buildings that use natural gas heat and electric air conditioning. This is true in the sun belt as well as the snow belt, thanks to the simple fact that the color of the roof only matters in sunlight. Since summer days are longer than winter days, the summer sun has a much greater opportunity to impact energy costs. Add to that the fact that, on average, electricity costs 4 times more, per BTU, than natural gas. That doesn’t even include electricity demand charges, which can account for up to 30–70% of a total electricity bill. And finally, a snow covered EPDM roof reflects the sun’s energy in the winter. Yet in the summer, the dark EPDM roof becomes a heat- absorbing sponge— just when you want to reflect sunlight away.
Repairs
TPO is thermoplastic, so you can heat-weld seams, and it’s ideal for repairs. Simply clean the membrane and heat-weld directly to it. EPDM cannot be welded and cannot be re-taped when the weather is too cold to use primer and adhesives, requiring a temporary fix until the weather warms up.
Dimensional Stability
TPO is a versatile membrane and can be installed in a variety of ways, including mechanically attached, adhered, and with the Rhino Bond® System.* Rhino Bond® is an electromagnetic induction welding system and cannot be used with thermoset products such as EPDM. It’s a great way to achieve the look and performance of an adhered system when it’s too cold to use adhesives. TPO offers many different adhesives options to install both smooth and fleece-back membranes, including low-VOC options. Install fleece-back
Seam Strength
A durable roofing system depends on strong seams. Ever Guard® TPO’s welded seams are stronger than taped EPDM seams. By welding the seams, TPO becomes one monolithic membrane across the entire roof.