TPO Roof Systems for Commercial Buildings

Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) roof systems have become popular due to their energy efficiency, fungal resistance, UV stability and outstanding long-term performance. Let's look into the features and benefits of this roofing solution and see if it is the right choice for your facility and budget.

What are Thermoplastic Roof Systems?

Thermoplastic roofs are synthetic substances that are softened when heated, but hardened upon cooling. Why is this flexibility so important? It allows the membrane to shrink and expand with the rest of the building during temperature changes. For example, if your location experiences extreme temperature shifts between seasons or times of day, you want your roof to be able to catch up with the rest of your building's materials, from concrete to steel. At CentiMark, we install and service two types of thermoplastic roofs -- Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) and Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) systems.

TPO commercial roof installation by CentiMark in San Antonio

TPO installation by CentiMark on a commercial building

TPO installation over a hospital by CentiMark

What is TPO Roofing?

Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) roof systems were introduced in the early 1990s. They quickly became very popular in the low-slope roofing market as they solved the limitations of plasticizers in Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) systems. TPO membranes are naturally flexible and do not contain plasticizers or chlorine, making them an excellent choice for environmentally-conscious businesses and facilities.

Benefits of Installing TPO Roof Membranes

Value

TPO roofs provide an outstanding value to any facility due to their exceptional performance at a reasonable price. If your existing decking and insulation are in great condition, a TPO system may be installed over them. Watch this video to get a look at TPO retrofit over a metal roof.

Strength and durability

Hot air welded seams and polyester reinforced scrim makes TPO membranes highly resistant to tears, punctures and impact damage.

Energy savings

The white color makes TPO highly reflective. As a result, a TPO roof may drastically reduce your facility's cooling costs and urban heat island effect. It is an ENERGY STAR Rated solution rightfully labeled a "cool roof."

Bioresistance

Natural resistance to fungi, bacteria and debris build-up. No need for biocides.

Weather resistance

Outstanding thermal performance and unparalleled UV resistance in hot and cold conditions.

Chemical resistance

High-performing installations resist bacteria and most roof pollutants.

Fire resistance

Rated Class A, our TPO membranes are ideal for any environment where fire safety is paramount.

Cost of ownership

The durability and bioresistance of TPO roofs allow you to spend less on the ongoing maintenance and repairs.

TPO Roof Installation Process

Lightweight and versatile, these systems can be installed in a wide range of applications and types of buildings. To determine the ideal TPO installation method for your project, let's look at a few factors, including your specific roofing needs, climate and timeline. Below are the methods we offer:

Mechanically attached

Our crews will secure the TPO membrane to the deck using fasteners and plates. Enhanced fastening patterns are used around the perimeter and corners for wind uplift. Seams are then welded for a watertight installation. Watch this video to see the process in action. The benefits of this method include value and fewer temperature restrictions during the installation.

Induction weld or point-affixed

The TPO membrane is attached to a mechanically anchored plate that has been fastened to the deck. The membrane is welded to the plates through electromagnetic induction, welding the two components together. The seams are then welded for a watertight installation with superior wind uplift performance.

Adhered

Our crews will directly bond the membrane to the insulation or other substrate based on your custom roof specifications using an adhesive or low-rise foam. In this case, the uplift pressure is distributed evenly throughout the membrane, improving performance and aesthetics.

Before and After

Pocatello, ID

A food processing facility was experiencing active roof leaks that could lead to a potential USDA food safety violation. The food processing facility had a plant shutdown coming up, so the roof needed to be replaced quickly and efficiently. CentiMark stepped in to replace the roof within the time schedule, completing over 100,000 square feet in less than 30 days. The result was a new 60-mil mechanically attached TPO roof, all installed during the plant shutdown.

Before: EPDM ballasted roof

After: 60-mil mechanically attached TPO, over ½” HD isocyanurate

Square Footage: Over 100,000

Warranty: CentiMark Single Source 20-year Warranty covering workmanship and material

Kent

New tenants were going to be moving into unoccupied spaces with multiple leaks at Kent Plaza. CentiMark was called in to upgrade the 30 year old roof system, fix the leaks, improve energy efficiency and increase tenant satisfaction. Not only did CentiMark mechanically attach a 1.2” polysio board along with 60 mil of TPO membrane via RhinoBond, but CentiMark also took extra time to blanket several hundred feet of power lines before beginning work. Extreme caution was taken to measure out and mark off the high voltage power supply so those areas were not penetrated with fasteners.

Before: Built-Up roof with gravel

After: Mechanically fastened TPO RhinoBond roof system

Square Footage: 20,000

Warranty: CentiMark Single Source 20-year Warranty covering workmanship and material

TPO Repairs and Maintenance

Have an existing TPO roof? Great choice! Let's ensure you have everything you need to keep it in its best shape and maximize its useful life. How can our team help you with that?

Commercial roof evaluations

It is essential to be fully aware of your roof's current condition. Seasons change, major weather events (storms, hurricanes, etc.), thaw and freeze cycles in cold climates - many factors can contribute to potential roof damage. Schedule a roof evaluation with us to stay ahead of roof leaks.

TPO roof repair

Notice a roof leak? Contact us and we will take it from there. We also provide 24/7 Emergency Service.

TPO roof maintenance

Contact us if you have any questions regarding preventative maintenance for your facility's roof or if you are considering a maintenance program.

TPO vs PVC Roofs

Not sure whether your facility needs a TPO or PVC roof? Both are great roofing solutions for commercial and industrial facilities. To determine which one is the best for your building, we will need to look at your facility's specific functions and needs. Let’s look at a quick feature comparison.

Energy Savings

TPO and PVC roofs are energy efficient and reflect heat, allowing them to champion regions of North America where heat waves are common.

Cost

TPO and PVC are similar in cost, keeping in mind it isn’t just the membrane that impacts the overall cost of your roofing solution. However both membranes will pay for themselves due to their outstanding performance, durability and low maintenance costs.

Durability

Both membranes are highly durable and can last up to 25 years or more.

Environmental impact

TPO is a better choice for environmentally conscious companies because it does not contain plasticizers. However, both membrane types are recyclable.

Why CentiMark?

We are a commercial-only TPO roof installer with over 100 locations from coast to coast. Whether you need a reroof, roof-over, TPO repair or maintenance, our highly-trained crews are just a call away. Our Single Source Warranty covers materials and labor. Interested in a TPO roof system for your building? Contact us for your thermoplastic quote today!

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Are You Interested in Discussing Different Roof Options for Your Facility?

Our team of dedicated roofing professionals is just a message away! Let's evaluate your current roof condition, your needs and building functions and discover the most optimal commercial roofing solution for your needs.