Are you researching flat roof options for your business? Deciding on TPO roofing vs EPDM can be very challenging. It is necessary to pick the best roofing material for your business because your roof can affect your HVAC bills and business goals in a big way.
At Sol Vista Roofing, we are passionate about the roofing industry, and we help people make educated decisions about their properties in Denver, CO. While looking at the comparisons, you will come across various conflicting opinions about TPO and EPDM.
Today, we are simplifying the debate about TPO vs EPDM to help you make the best decision for your business, and help you improve your overall ROI.
TPO Roofing Vs EPDM
The best thing you can do for your business is to choose high-quality roofing materials that are appropriate for your business and location. TPO and EPDM are the two most popular roofing materials for building flat roofs in the US. Here are some fundamental differences between TPO and EPDM:
Explaining The Composition
One common thing between the two materials is they are single-ply rubber membranes. Single-ply is a term for a complete roofing system. EPDM is made of rubber and diene monomer– a form of carbon. TPO contains rubber reinforced with other synthetics like fiberglass– a mix of glass and plastic.
Solving The Questions Of Longevity
EPDM has been used for decades, but TPO is a more modern, growing technology. Every roof has a limited lifespan, but durability is a long-standing debate when researching TPO vs EPDM. The truth is– both EPDM and TPO roofs can last between 20-30 years, and in some cases, they can last even longer. A roof’s lifespan depends entirely on the local weather conditions, and how well you maintain your roof.
The Debate On Color Options
TPO generally comes in light and cool colors like white, gray, and tan. However, this doesn’t mean you cannot get other color options if you desire them. If you consider aesthetics, TPO is typically more appealing and can remain in good condition with sufficient maintenance.
In EPDM roofs, colors vary from black to gray, often with a smooth finish because EPDM has no granules. EPDM can also come in white color by replacing black carbon with a white pigment like titanium dioxide. However, it is even less UV resistant and can be less durable than black EPDM.
Simplifying The Installation Techniques
There are separate techniques to install TPO and EPDM roofing membranes, and a TPO roof is typically easier to install. Roofing contractors use chemical adhesives and welding to install TPO membranes. EPDM roofs require a mechanical fastening process and seal tapes.
Cost Of Professional Installation
TPO installation costs are higher than EPDM. The final costs vary based on your roof’s size, labor cost, and additional safety components. EPDM roofs can cost between $10 to $20 per square foot and TPO roofs can cost between $12 to $26.00 per square foot. The cost of installing a TPO roof is higher because it requires welding– a more complex and longer-lasting installation technique. Roofing professionals need additional experience and skills to install TPO roofs flawlessly.
To decide which roofing system is best for you, it is essential to understand that your choice can depend on your business goals and local climate. Below we compare major roof damage concerns that are possible due to local weather conditions.
Local Climate Concerns
TPO and EPDM roofs cover commercial buildings and protect the building’s foundation, electrical system, and interiors from weather damage. When it comes to commercial buildings, business owners and managers focus on safety measures, and they want to understand what type of roof is best to invest in. Here are some common elements that can cause damage to consider:
Hot Climate
TPO roofs are efficient for areas with long, hot summers, as they come in bright colors. Cool and light-colored roofs reflect 80% of sunlight, helping your air conditioning unit run properly while lowering energy costs.
Cold Climate
Since EPDM roofs are dark, they absorb the sun’s heat and help maintain warmer temperatures inside. They are suitable for areas with long, freezing winters. If you live in a town with long, chilly winters that experience heavy snowfall, TPO can tolerate cold temperatures better, as it has high tensile strength.
Hail And Water Damage
EPDM roofs can absorb impact from hail without sustaining damage while TPO roofs aren’t the best choice for hail-prone areas. If you live in a town that receives a lot of rainfall, TPO roofs are typically more resistant to leaks and mold.
When deciding between TPO vs EPDM, climate and initial costs are not the only things to consider. Your industry or business type can also affect which roofing material might be best for your building.
When To Choose TPO
TPO roofing is growing rapidly and for great reasons. TPO is better at withstanding chemicals, acids, and oils than EPDM. So, if your business involves these materials, you should choose a TPO roof. The automobile industry was the first to make use of TPO roofs, and its popularity gradually moved into the healthcare and hospitality industries.
If you have an office or co-working space in a warm region, a TPO roof will help maintain a more comfortable atmosphere for your staff. Cool roofs take a load off your HVAC systems, enabling them to function correctly for a long time and consume less energy.
When To Choose EPDM
EPDM roofs are suitable for businesses that don’t involve chemical exposure. An EPDM roof might be more feasible for your building if you have a library, hotel, or fitness center in a location with less-than-average sunny days.
EPDM roofs can help make your business more environmentally conscious if that’s your goal. You can easily fix solar panels on EPDM roofs, but that can be more complicated if you have a TPO roof. That’s because they reflect sunlight, counteracting the purpose of solar panels, which is to absorb and convert sunlight into energy.
One of the most important things to consider is that the roofing company you hire is directly responsible for the quality and longevity of your roof. If you choose inexperienced contractors, they may make installation errors, which can cost you a lot of money in the long run.
Free Consultation on TPO Vs EPDM
If you want the best solution for your property, you must choose a local, trustworthy roofing company. That’s where we come in. Sol Vista Roofing is one of the highest-rated roofing companies in Denver, CO. Our knowledgeable roofing experts have been educating property owners about the roofing industry for years.
If you need our help, or you have any questions on TPO vs EPDM, we are happy to help! Contact us at (720) 409-1035 for a free consultation, and to discuss your project with a professional roofing contractor. We believe it will help you make a more informed decision, and feel confident about what to do next.
