Is TPO the best flat roof system for your property? This question is frequently asked by property owners that need a new roof, and we have the answer.

As a relative newcomer to the roofing materials industry, TPO roofing systems have gained extraordinary popularity and are being used throughout the United States. Due to its durability and cost efficiency, TPO should be considered when re-roofing or installing a new roofing system.

atlantacommercialroofingcontractors.com takes an in-depth look at the definition, installation, warranty, cost, and problems associated with TPO roofing systems while answering some of the most frequently asked questions about it.

TPO Roofing Explained – Production, Properties, and Benefits

TPO is Thermoplastic Polyolefin, and it is one of several single-ply roofing systems.

The following will help you understand the composition, properties, and production of TPO membranes for both commercial and residential structures.

• A TPO membrane may be produced by calendering with lamination (this is the process of combining materials at high heat and pressure by passing them through rollers), extrusion with lamination (a process to make long shapes with constant cross sections, similar to squeezing toothpaste from a tube), or through extrusion-coating techniques.
• Sheet thickness is usually 40 mils to 100 mils. That’s about the thickness of a heavy duty trash bag.
• Sheets are typically produced in widths ranging from 6 feet to 12 feet.
• The composition of TPO sheets is a blend of polypropylene, ethylene propylene polymers, and polyester reinforcement.
• Overlapping seams are sealed by heat welding which uses hot air.
• The majority of TPO membranes are white but can come in a variety of colors.
• TPO roofing is resistant to oils and chemicals carried by commercial exhaust vents.
• TPO roofing material contains flame retardants and UV absorbing elements.
• TPO roofing systems receive high wind ratings when properly installed.
• TPO roofing has a life expectancy of about 30 years, however, only having been in use for three decades, its full potential lifespan is still being evaluated. As time passes, production of the system and its method of installation have naturally worked out the bugs, thus improving the product and increasing its longevity.

TPO Roofing Installation and Warranty

The installation of a TPO roofing system, when done by an experienced roofing company, is fast, clean, and virtually nonintrusive.

How your roofing system is installed will determine its ability to withstand the elements and ultimately its lifespan.

Affixing the TPO membrane is accomplished by making it fully adhered, and mechanically attached or ballasted; the following factors greatly influence the quality of the roofing system’s installation:

• Proper roof slope for a efficient draining.
• Strategic installation and fastening of insulation (when used) to deter bulging or sagging.
• Proper application of adhesives.
• Proper use of a seam welder (to prevent future leaks in the seams).
• All welds checked using a seam probe.
• Drip edge seamlessly connected around the perimeter of the roof.

In addition to a quality installation, a strong warranty is advantageous and very valuable. There are two warranties to consider when installing any new roofing system:

Manufacturer’s Warranty – This warranty covers manufacturing defects in the material used for your roofing system. Once the installation is complete, your contractor should provide you with a warranty certificate.

An example of material failure would be the separation of the lamination from the TPO membrane during hot weather. Unless it is determined to be a result of faulty installation, a claim should be made against the manufacturer’s warranty.

Contractor’s Warranty – This warranty covers the workmanship and installation of your roofing system.

While there is no industry standard for the duration of a contractor’s warranty, it should contain the following:

• A list of what items are covered.
• What actions or situations would void the warranty.
• When the warranty expires.

The above installation and warranty information underscore the necessity to thoroughly vet contractors.

TPO Roofing Cost

Pricing any roofing system can be a daunting experience. Often there is a significant disparity from one quote to the next, validating the need to collect a minimum of three bids from reputable roofing contractors.

Prices for installing a TPO roof system will vary depending on the time of year, brand, quality of the materials, method of installation, and the amount of labor involved. You can expect to see price quotes in the following ranges:

Tear-off costs can run between $100 and $200 per square. In some cases, the contractor will bundle this into material and installation pricing.

A tear-off is when the existing roofing system is completely removed to install a new system. Depending on the type of roofing system being installed and the condition of the existing roof, the new system may be installed over the existing one.

TPO material will see a price range between $150 and $500 per square.

TPO installation labor costs will range from $500 and $900 per square.

Maintenance contract pricing varies from contractor to contractor.

Roofers and their suppliers price materials in terms of ‘squares,’ whereas
1 square = 100 square feet.

So as an example, the price range of the bids you receive, including tear-off, material, and installation for a 1,000 square foot roof may fall within $7,500 to $16,000.

Note: Across the industry, roofing installations are more expensive in the spring and summer time. To save money, try to schedule an installation for the off-peak season (early spring and fall).

TPO Roofing Problems

The majority of problems that arise with TPO roofing systems occur as a result of poor installation.

Here are some commonly reported issues:

• Roof slope is too low, resulting in pooling water. (which degrades materials faster)
• Insulation (under the membrane) not installed correctly and is causing bulges.
• Seam separation from improper welding, allowing water penetration.
• Torn membrane from debris striking the roof.

For proper installation, it is essential to hire a roofing company that has extensive training and experience with TPO roofing systems.

People Also Ask

Question: Is TPO better than EPDM?
Answer: Inconclusive. Depending on which aspect of the two roofing systems you wish to compare, and your roofing requirements, the answer may vary.

While EPDM and TPO offer very similar benefits, TPO with its stronger and more durable seams (adhered to the roof), make it a desirable option.

Question: What is the difference between PVC and TPO?
Answer: Visually, the two roofing systems are virtually identical.

Performance-based, the two systems produce similar results until puncture resistance, environmental impact, and eventual “known” problems are taken into account. In this scenario, the TPO system is a superior option. However, when price and warranty terms are considered, PVC edges out TPO. Both are great products that check different boxes and satisfy different needs.

Question: How long has TPO roofing been around?
Answer: Since 1989.

Question: What colors does TPO roofing come in?
Answer: Standard colors are white, tan, and grey. However, TPO can be found in different shades of grey, brown, green, red, tan, and gold.

Question: Is TPO roofing flammable?
Answer: Yes. However, as with all roofing systems, TPO roofing is required to meet FM and UL fire ratings.

A distinct difference and advantage of TPO is that it does not release dioxins when burned and contains flame retardants.

TPO Information Revealed

When being presented options and quotes for new roofing systems, property owners frequently ask “What is TPO?” As you’ve discovered, it’s one of the most popular thermoplastic roof membranes in today’s roofing industry.

In this article, you were presented valuable information about the installation, warranty, cost, life expectancy, problems associated with TPO roofing systems, and answers to frequently asked questions.

By asking the right questions and being informed when selecting a roofing system and the contractor to install it, you will benefit from getting the best roofing solution and warranty at the best available price.

Sources:
http://www.everybodyneedsaroof.com/thermoplastic-membranes
http://mrca.org/aws/MRCA/asset_manager/get_file/161617?ver=344
http://firestonebp.ca/roofing/tpo-roofing-systems/tpo-installation-methods/
http://www.nrca.net/
http://www.azsfb.gov/sfb/Performance%20Specifications/Roofing%2009202018/07%2054%2023%20-%20TPO.pdf

See TPO Roofing System Explained for the first version of this content.

Do you know the blatant and hidden roofing job signs most likely leading to expensive repairs and/or roof failure? Most roofers won’t tell you about these common mistakes, but we will.

For the investment that a new roof requires, you would like to be able to expect a complete and mistake free installation. Avoid the expensive surprises and premature roof failure by knowing what to look for and can go wrong.

atlantacommercialroofingcontractors.com gathered a list of the 15 more common mistakes roofers make during the installation process.

Mismatched Roofing Shingles

One of the more visible mistakes a roofer can make is to use mismatched shingles. This obvious mistake occurs when a roofing contractor uses multiple dealers and purchases supplies from more than one supplier.

This can be avoided by selecting a roofing contractor that consistently uses the same roofing supplies distributor.

Layers of Shingles

Depending on the municipality your property is located in, it may or may not be unlawful to install a new roofing system without first tearing off the old one.

By tearing off the old roofing system, your contractor can fully inspect your roof deck for any weaknesses, gaps, and other potential issues. An added benefit is that your roof deck will not have to support the weight of two systems.

On the contrary, some commercial roofing systems are engineered to overlay an existing roofing system. Before this happens, the number of layers is checked and decking is tested for it soundness.

This cost-savings method prevents a complete tear-off and related debris hauling process, but should only be used on a commercial roofing system and in accordance with all local and state laws.

Incorrect Use of Roofing Nails

Roofing systems that utilize nails to secure it to the roof deck have specific guidelines for the size and use of nails. The following are common mistakes that could lead to your insurance company refusing to pay a claim in the event of roof failure.

• Nails without barbed shanks.
• Nails are too short.
• Nail Heads are too small.
• Not enough nails used. (the average is four per shingle and six for higher slopes or premium installations)
• Nails driven above the self-sealing strip.
• Nails driven into knotholes or gaps in the roof deck.

All of the above can result in the acceleration of a roof’s deterioration.

Incorrect Shingle Overhang at the Eves

Shingle overhang at the eaves should be between 6 and 10mm. More than this can result in the shingles being blown off during high winds or severe storms. Less than 6mm can result in water infiltration of the roof deck and leaks within the structure.

This mistake can be avoided by proper shingle installation and with the addition of a drip edge flashing to protect the edges of the deck from water infiltration. This flashing can be secured with a shingle adhesive.

Neglecting the Installation or Reusing the Drip Edge Flashing

Drip edge flashings help ensure a roof’s success at keeping the outside elements outside. Here are some of the benefits:

• Stops wind-driven rain from gaining access at the edge of the roof.
• Provides a surface for water to drip from which prevents saturation and decay of the deck or fascia board
• Drip edge flashings stop insects from entering the attic.
• Since they extend slightly past the edge of the roof, they support and keep shingles from sagging or breaking.

When replacing your roofing system, ensure that all drip edge flashings are replaced. This expense is minimal considering the cost of a new roof, and serves to protect your investment.

Improper or Missing Starter Shingles (Starter Strips)

Both rookie contractors and do-it-yourselfers frequently make this mistake. A starter section of shingles should be laid along the eves.

Without starter shingles, water will make its way to the roof deck through the cutouts of the bottom shingles.

Improper Installation of Underlayment

Roofing underlayment is a layer of water-resistant or waterproofed material that is installed directly onto your roof deck. The underlayment is applied under all other roofing materials as an added layer of protection from severe weather and the elements.

There are three principal types of roofing underlayment:

• Asphalt-saturated felt
• Non-bitumen synthetic underlayment, or synthetic underlayment.
• Rubberized asphalt underlayment

Asphalt-saturated felt, and synthetic underlayment are both water-resistant, while rubberized asphalt underlayment is waterproof.

Neglecting the Attic

Your roof is a system made up of various parts, including the attic space. Without proper attic ventilation, moisture can build up over time causing your roofing system to prematurely wear out, and ruining your insulation, resulting in sharp increases in your energy bill.

Improper Roof Slope

The use of materials that don’t suit the slope of your roof will leave your structure susceptible to water penetration.

As an example: For an installation of asphalt, wood, or tile shingle roofing systems, it is recommended to have 4 units rise per 12 units of run.

Roof Gutter Sag

Roof gutters are vital to guiding water away from your roof. When they sag, come loose, are installed too low, or do not sufficiently slope, they can back up or overflow, allowing water to enter the structure.

Insufficient Securing of Roof Valley Flashing

Since roof valleys typically handle large volumes of water runoff, they are more prone to leaks. When roof valley flashings are improperly installed, the roofing system can buckle, leading to water leaks and costly repairs.

In addition to the proper installation of roof valley flashing, using the appropriate amount of sealant and adhesive material will work to prevent water penetration.

Not Planning for Ice Dams

In colder climates, ice dams form at the roofline which forces water under the shingles. Thawing and refreezing can wreak havoc on a roofing system without proper insulation.

Damage can be significantly reduced or prevented by applying an additional underlayment from the roofline to about three to four feet up the roof. This provides an extra layer of protection from melting ice water.

Ignoring the Manufacturer’s Guidelines

Roofing manufacturers have detailed regulations on how their roofing systems must be installed. Deviations from these regulations may determine whether a manufacturer will honor their warranty in the event of the roof’s failure before the guaranteed lifespan.

Skipping the Roofing Permit

Most municipalities require a permit for new roof installation. The building owner or property owner is ultimately the one held liable for failing to obtain a permit.

Having a roof installed without a permit may result in fines, refusal of insurance coverage, or even the forced complete removal of the new roof.

Insufficient Roofing Contractor Insurance

If your contractor does not carry enough insurance to pay for damages or injuries, you may be held responsible for covering these costs.

All reputable roofing contractors will willingly provide proof of their insurance policy. Likewise, their insurance company may be contacted to confirm their coverages.

Avoid a Bad Roofing Job

Knowing the signs of a lousy roofing job and contractor will help you avoid expensive surprises and premature roof failure.

In this article, you discovered 15 of the most common roofing mistakes that can lead to leaks, weather damages, and roof failure.

If you don’t know what to watch for during the installation of your new roof, you are leaving too many windows for mistakes that can cause serious damages to your property and potentially result in the failure or loss of your new roof.

Sources:
https://www.fema.gov/media-library-data/20130726-1706-25045-9347/chapter8.pdf
https://dopl.utah.gov/licensing/contracting_avoid_costly_mistakes.html
http://www.ashireporter.org/homeinspection/articles/don-t-miss-the-shingle-stagger-/1973
https://www.handymantips.org/major-roofing-mistakes/

See 15 Common Mistakes Most Roofers Won’t Tell You About for the first version of this content.

After a severe weather event, leaks in a commercial roof can become problematic very quickly. Besides disrupting business and making a mess, they can cause electrical problems, structural damage, and lead to roof failure if not promptly addressed.

When the roof of your commercial building, hotel, office, warehouse, or retail location is damaged or develops a leak, it should be treated as an emergency and handled immediately.

In this article, atlantacommercialroofingcontractors.com discusses weather-related roof damage, insurance company assessments, and how to hire a roofing contractor.

Causes of Commercial Roof Damage and Leaks

During or after a severe weather event, damages to your roofing system may become very obvious in the form of saturated walls, drips, or even streams of water cascading to the floor.

Hailstorms, hurricanes, and tornadoes in particular can beat up your roofing system, causing severe structural damages, such that extensive repairs or even roof replacement may be necessary.

However, sometimes a severe weather event isn’t necessary to expose an emergency situation. Over time, your roof must frequently endure extreme temperature fluctuations, and eventually, all it takes is a rain shower on a mid-summer afternoon to rapidly cool a nearly 200-degree roof and presto! You’ve got leaks and an emergency on your hands.

Roof Assessments and Insurance Inspections

If your roof damage emergency is the result of an act of God, before any major work begins, you must file the insurance claim. To do so, gather your policy number(s), facts about the situation, and call your insurance carrier to request an assessment.

During an evaluation inspection, the adjuster must determine the following when assessing the total of your loss:

• What is the extent of the damage?
• How much material is needed for repairs?
or
• Was the roof damaged sufficiently to declare it a total loss?
• How much material is required for replacement?

To ensure that you will receive the maximum benefit from your insurance policy, call a professional roofing contractor to have your own independent assessment done.

Request a Reinspection – If you find discrepancies between the insurance adjuster’s findings and those of the roofing contractor, you have the right to request a reinspection or contract an insurance public adjuster.

Reinspections are common practice, in which the insurance adjuster will meet with the roofing contractor to review the damages done to your roof.

Upon approval of the claim to repair or replace your roof, your insurance provider may select the roofing contractor to complete the work. They may also leave that determination up to you.

Note: In areas where a disaster has occurred, insurance companies may set up and follow special temporary procedures to expedite repairs and rebuilding. In these scenarios, it is important to keep receipts and records for temporary repairs, as the insurance company will likely reimburse you.

Hiring A Roofing Contractor – What to Look For

Natural disasters and severe weather events tend to attract some of the worst characters in the roofing business that prey on unsuspecting property owners who are under pressure to get things back to normal.

Replacing the roof of a building is a significant investment that needs to be done right, by a contractor that can be fully vetted and held accountable for the quality of their work. When fielding bids from contractors to repair or replace your roof, consider the following factors into the decision-making process.

Does the contractor have:

• A written proposal?
• A valid business license?
• Proof of insurance
• A permanent business location?
• In-depth knowledge and understanding of your roofing system?
• Up-to-date industry education?
• Financial stability?
• Material and installation warranties?
• A maintenance proposal?
• An effective safety training program?
• In-state references?

Also look for:

• Manufacturer certifications.
• Proof of continuous training.
• Roofing association memberships.
• Industry awards and recognition.
• Good and bad press or reviews.

Be wary of contractors which:

• Provide a seemingly unrealistic high or low bid.
• Only provides out-of-state references.
• Request money before any on-site material delivery.
• Only deal in cash.
• Cannot verify their company information and statements.

A fast way to address all of the above is to request a “Roofing Contractor Qualification Statement.” This document collects in-depth company information, references, history, and financial stability neatly organized to facilitate your evaluation of that company.

Managing Your Commercial Roof Seamlessly

The weather and harsh conditions a commercial roofing system must endure dramatically influences its lifespan and necessity for repairs. When the need arises, and it eventually may, you should be prepared to quickly file a claim and call in a professional roofing contractor.

With the above information, you can now identify an emergency roofing situation, effectively work with your insurance company, and thoroughly vet the contractors bidding for your job.

Without your prompt action, your commercial building will suffer significant losses or temporary closure when severe weather leaves your roofing system vulnerable, damaged, destroyed, and leaking.

Sources:
https://www.fema.gov/
http://www.nrca.net/
https://disastersafety.org/ibhs/hiring-a-professional-commercial-contractor/
http://www.everybodyneedsaroof.com/Roofing-Information-For-Building-Owners

See Commercial Roof Repair, Insurance Claims, and Hiring Contractors for the first version of this content.