Thermoplastic Polyolefin – (TPO)


TPO Stands for Thermoplastic Polyolefin and is a roofing membrane used in commercial roofing.  It consists of a rubber-like material, that can be heat welded into large sections.

TPO is typically composed of polypropylene and Ethylene-Propylene (commonly referred to as EP) rubber fused together.  They do not contain any chlorine-containing ingredients, which makes TPO a “Green” environmentally Safe Product.  The Membrane consists of TPO based top and bottom plies that surround a reinforcing fabric.  This enhances the tearing strength, breaking point, and puncture resistance.


When applying a TPO Roofing membrane, the most common Installation is a Mechanically fastened system.  Fasteners and plates are placed along the edge of the sheet and fastened through the membrane and into the roof decking.  Once they are fastened to the edges of the roof, the sheets are joined together using a hot air heat weld.  The Membrane width and fastener spacing is different for every roof and is determined individually for each roof, using a pull test.

Another option for attaching TPO Roofing is to fully adhere it to the insulation or deck material using an adhesive.  When insulation board is used, the insulation board is mechanically fastened to the roof decking material, and the membrane is adhered to the insulation board.  Some TPO manufacturers offer a peel and stick style membrane.  Others will use an adhesive which is poured onto the insulation board and the underside of the membrane.  This style of installation will not flutter due to wind forces. It is an ideal choice for a roof system that is visible on roofs such as domes or other high slope applications.

The TPO Membrane has the added benefit of its ability to fuse together using a hot air weld.  Once two sheets of TPO are welded together, they create a bond that is actually stronger than the sheet itself. Because this process is so effective, and efficient, it creates great bonds for corners, vents, pipes, and areas with flashing material.


Especially in the Southern States, TPO roofing offers the added benefit of being a highly reflective roofing material.  It meets, and often substantially exceeds the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star Performance Levels, often performing at an 80% Reflective range, which exceeds the Energy Star Specifications of 65%.   They are also highly resistant to mold and algae growth which is very important because mold and algae growth can degrade the roof’s reflectivity reducing its Energy Efficiency.

While it may be a relatively young product in the Commercial Roofing Industry, TPO has rapidly gained credibility.  It is often the top choice for modern Commercial Roof Replacement material.  We are proud to offer this highly efficient, and excellent quality material to our commercial customers.