Roofs are essential to any building, providing shelter from the elements and protecting the interior from damage. However, most people do not pay much attention to their roofs unless leaking or damaged. This lack of understanding is unfortunate, as the type of roofing material used can significantly impact the overall performance and appearance of the building.
Many roofing materials are available, each with unique benefits and drawbacks. The best material for a particular building will depend on several factors, including the climate, the slope of the roof, and the desired aesthetic.
Considering all these factors, you can choose the best roofing material for your building. One type, in particular, is TPO, a relatively new technology (in the roofing world). TPO is an abbreviation for Thermoplastic Polyolefin, developed in the 1990s. It is a single-membrane roof (a membrane being a protective barrier) used for commercial and residential roofing. Membranes made from polypropylene are known for their elasticity and durability. This membrane type is designed to be an energy saver with a reflective nature to keep the surface temperatures low. TPO continues to gain popularity due to the material’s quality, reliability, and energy-saving nature.
Benefits of TPO Roofing
What are the benefits of TPO roofing when reroofing a residence or property? First, TPO is heat-reflective and UV-resistant, which is extra vital in the high desert of Santa Fe. Being closer to the sun and experiencing a lot of intense sunlight wreaks havoc on a roof. TPO’s energy-efficient design allows for longer-lasting roofs that limit solar heating of the entire building. With its energy efficiency and UV-resistant qualities, it is surprising that TPO is inexpensive for commercial and residential roofing.
This polypropylene membrane is highly durable, resistant to mold, dirt, fires, and chemicals, and can withstand certain punctures. Depending on the quality of installation, TPO roofs can last up to 30 years with minimal maintenance. Maintenance of TPOs is simple since they are one single membrane. Diagnosing leaks on this type of material is easy and requires minimal repair costs.
Not only is TPO easy to maintain, but it is also simple to install. Since few materials are needed, this is considered an easy and clean roofing process. However, hiring a properly trained roofing company with quality reviews is still critical.
TPO Installation Process
Although the TPO installation process is simple, it does need to be done correctly. Roofers will clean the existing roof and remove the existing coverage. Then, the TPO is applied to the roof in broadsheets with fewer seams. The broadsheet system with fewer seams gives fewer points of potential failure. There are three ways to secure a membrane roof: ballasted, mechanically fastened, or chemically adhered. Ballasted is not as popular as it once was. It is the simplest application using gravel or rocks to adhere the roof to the building. Mechanically fastened is just as it sounds, using plates and screws along the seams to attach the system to the building. Chemically adhered means the TPO is glued to the insulation or roof deck. At Santa Fe Stucco & Roofing, we exclusively offer fully-adhered TPO, as we have found that an evenly-adhered membrane protects best against the condensation that can form with Santa Fe’s constantly changing temperatures.
Is a TPO Roof Right for You?
TPO, or thermoplastic polyolefin, is a popular roofing material for homeowners and property owners looking for a durable, energy-efficient, low-maintenance option. Here are some reasons why TPO roofing might be the right choice for you:
Energy Efficiency: TPO is a highly reflective material that can reflect a chunk of the sun’s energy away from your home. This reflection can help reduce summer cooling costs and make your home more comfortable during the hot months. A TPO roof can be valuable in areas like New Mexico, where summers can be swelterin
Durability: TPO is a tough and durable material that can withstand extreme weather conditions, including high winds, hail, and snow. It is also resistant to fire and rot, making it an excellent choice for homes in areas prone to wildfires or other natural disasters. TPO roofs can last up to 30 years with proper care and maintenance.
Low Maintenance: TPO roofs are low maintenance. The large broadsheets used in TPO roofing limit the number of potential failure points, and the material is fully waterproof, which is crucial for protecting your property during intense monsoon seasons. Regular inspections are recommended to maintain your TPO roof.
Affordability: Compared to other roofing materials, TPO roofing is relatively affordable. The cost of a TPO roof will vary depending on your home’s size, the roof design’s complexity, and the local labor rates. However, TPO roofs are generally considered cost-effective for homeowners looking for a long-lasting, energy-efficient roofing solution.
Flat or Low-Slope Roofs: TPO roofing is ideally suited for flat or low-slope roofs. The large broadsheets of TPO can be easily adhered to the roof deck, creating a seamless and watertight seal. TPO roofs are also lightweight, essential for flat or low-slope roofs that may not support the weight of heavier roofing materials.
If you are considering a new roof, TPO is a great option. Its energy efficiency, durability, low maintenance, affordability, and suitability for flat or low-slope roofs make it a popular choice among homeowners and property owners.
Why Santa Fe Stucco & Roofing is the Right Choice for Your TPO Installation
Selecting the appropriate roofer and choosing the right type of roof for your property is vital. This decision is particularly crucial for TPO roofs, where professional installation plays a pivotal role in reducing the likelihood of problems and extending the lifespan of the roof.
Santa Fe Stucco & Roofing is a premier roofing installer known for delivering high-end installations tailored to each project’s unique requirements. Our commitment to excellence begins with carefully selecting top-quality materials for every job. Recognizing that every homeowner has specific needs and budgetary considerations, Santa Fe Stucco & Roofing prioritizes finding the ideal product and budget that aligns with individual projects.
Beyond the exceptional quality of our products and installation services, Santa Fe Stucco & Roofing goes above and beyond by offering an unwavering 15-year guarantee. This rock-solid guarantee gives homeowners peace of mind, knowing that a reliable and experienced installer protects their investment in a new roof. Santa Fe Stucco & Roofing means choosing a partner dedicated to delivering exceptional results, materials, and peace of mind.