Plastic

Replacement Options

TPO (thermoplastic) roofing was developed in the mid-1990s as an improvement over rubber. And it is better - but it's still dealing with 30-year-old technology. The seams can fail, it gets brittle with age, and you're paying for yesterday's solution when modern options exist.

What You Get with TPO:

  • Better performance than rubber, but still limited
  • Heat-welded seams that can fail over time
  • Membrane becomes brittle and cracks with age
  • Moderate energy efficiency compared to newer options
  • Decent lifespan with proper maintenance (20-25 years)
  • Mid-range pricing for mid-range performance

Material Properties

  • Thickness: 45-80 mil single-ply membrane
  • Installation: Fully adhered, mechanically attached, or ballasted
  • Seaming: Heat-welded (stronger than rubber tape, but still problematic)
  • Temperature Range: -40°F to 250°F operating range
  • Warranty: 15-25 years material (better than rubber)
  • Energy Efficiency: Good reflectivity, moderate energy savings

Scenarios Where TPO Makes Sense:

  • Budget upgrade from rubber - Want better performance without premium cost
  • Mid-term facility planning - 15-20 year building ownership timeline
  • Moderate climate conditions - Less extreme temperature cycling
  • Basic performance needs - Standard warehouse or light manufacturing
  • Existing TPO repairs - Matching current system for additions

Our Position: "TPO is the compromise choice - better than rubber, not as good as modern options. If you need something in the middle, we can make it work well."

TPO's Honest Drawbacks:

  • Seam welding challenges - Quality depends heavily on installer skill
  • Brittleness over time - Membrane flexibility decreases with age
  • Chemical sensitivity - Some building chemicals can damage TPO
  • Limited repair options - Damaged areas often require large patches
  • Technology plateau - Hasn't improved significantly in 20 years

Why Spend a Little More:

Flexible Vinyl Blanket

Superior durability and appearance

Seamless Coatings

Modern technology with renewable characteristics

If TPO Fits Your Needs:

  • Expert seam welding - Certified technicians ensure quality connections
  • Proper membrane selection - Choose appropriate thickness and formulation
  • Quality fastening - Mechanical attachment done to wind uplift requirements
  • Realistic expectations - Clear communication about maintenance needs
  • Ongoing support - Regular inspections to catch issues early
  • Upgrade planning - Help you transition to better technology when time comes

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