TPO Roof Installation: What To Expect
As a business owner, having a reliable and sturdy roof over your head—not to mention over your employees and customers—is a requirement rather than a luxury.
Though we’ve previously discussed which roofing materials are available to commercial owners, let’s focus on a popular option you may be considering for your property: TPO roofing.
What Is a TPO Roof?
TPO roofing, short for thermoplastic olefin roofing, is a type of roofing material that is commonly used in commercial and industrial buildings. It’s a single-ply roofing membrane that is made from a blend of polypropylene and ethylene-propylene rubber.
Known for its durability, UV resistance, and energy efficiency, TPO roofing is also lightweight and easy to install, making it a top choice for flat and low-slope roofs.
In this article, we break down everything you need to know about the TPO roof installation process so you know what to expect and can plan accordingly.
Preparation
Before the installation process begins, your roofing contractor will assess the condition of your current roof and make necessary repairs.
At All Elements, Inc., our team will ensure that the underlying structure is sound and can support the weight of the new TPO roofing system. If any issues are found, we’ll work with you on how to address them before moving onto the next step.
Installation
The actual installation process for TPO roofing is relatively quick and straightforward. First, we’ll roll out the TPO membrane over the roof’s surface and attach it to the underlying structure using fasteners or adhesives. The edges of the membrane will be sealed to prevent any water infiltration.
Any protrusions such as vents, skylights, or HVAC units will be carefully worked around to ensure proper coverage.
Inspection
After the installation is complete, we’ll perform a thorough inspection to ensure that the TPO membrane has been installed correctly and there are no leaks or other issues.
We’ll also inspect any flashing and other details to ensure that they have been properly installed and sealed.
Maintenance
Once your new TPO roof is installed, it’s important to keep up with regular maintenance to ensure its longevity.
Our team can provide recommendations on how often to schedule inspections and maintenance services.
FAQs about TPO Roof Installation
Before we go, let’s cover a few commonly asked questions about TPO roofs to help you plan your upcoming project.
How long does it take to install a TPO roof?
The installation time for a TPO roof can vary depending on several factors, including
- The size of the roof
- The complexity of the installation process
- The experience level of your roofing contractor
- The availability of TPO roofing material
- The weather/ time of year
On average, TPO roof installation can take anywhere from 1-2 weeks.
What underlayment is used for TPO roofing?
Underlayment helps protect against water infiltration and can also help to prevent the growth of mold and mildew. If underlayment is recommended for your TPO roof, it typically consists of a 5/8″ gypsum board, which is usually installed when an improved fire rating is required.
How is TPO applied?
TPO roof material is applied using a variety of techniques. The most common method is to use a hot-air gun to warm the TPO membrane and the substrate, then press them together.
Another method is to use a solvent-based adhesive to bond the TPO to the substrate.
Can you install TPO over an existing roof?
Yes, it is possible, but it’s important to note that this may not always be the best option. Installing a TPO roof over an existing roof can save time and money, as it eliminates the need to tear off and dispose of the old roof. However, it can also add extra weight to the roof structure and may not be suitable for all types of roofs.
It’s important to consult with a professional roofing contractor like All Elements, Inc. to determine if installing a TPO roof over an existing roof is the best option for your specific situation.
Request a Free TPO Roofing Quote
TPO roofing is an excellent choice for commercial properties and with an experienced roofing contractor, the installation process can be straightforward and seamless, creating minimal disruption to your business operations.To learn more about our capabilities or if you’re ready to talk about updating your commercial roof with TPO roofing, you can request a free quote to get started or call us directly at 763-314-0234.