What Is A TPO Roof? TPO Roofing Questions answered by Rodd Roofing

What is Thermoplastic Polyolefin or TPO Roofing?

An example of TPO roofing

Thermoplastic polyolefin is one form of commercial roofing membrane that is gaining popularity (TPO). From economic effectiveness to energy efficiency, the TPO roof has a lot of advantages. However, in order to get the full benefits of a TPO roof, it must be cleaned and maintained on a regular basis.


What is TPO roofing?


TPO roofs are made of thermoplastic polyolefin, a form of rubber that combines polypropylene and ethylene-polypropylene rubber. TPO roofing membrane is a single-ply roofing membrane. TPO is relatively new but has been around for about 25 years. It comes in ten-foot-by-one-hundred-foot rolls that can be used in a variety of ways. TPO is available in a range of thicknesses, including 45 mil, 60 mil, and 80 mil. Polypropylene (PP) and ethylene-propylene rubber (EPR) polymers are used to make the membrane. This blend also contains a variety of unique compounds that provide increased durability and resistance to extreme weather conditions. Pigments, UV absorbers, flame retardants, and other additives are among them. Two TPO membranes are fused together using a polyester fabric "scrim" in between the plies to make reinforced TPO. TPO is a long-lasting, high-value roof system that may be used on a wide range of commercial, industrial, and multi-family roofs.


TPO roofs are a popular alternative for commercial building owners due to their moderate costs. Covering a 20,000 square foot roof with single-ply roofing, for example, can be pricey in terms of both materials and labor. There are a few factors to consider when looking for the greatest deal.


The size of the commercial roof, the current state of the existing rooftop, and how difficult it is for workers to access the roof are all factors to consider. The type of insulation, membrane, and installation are all important considerations. The type of warranty has a big impact on the pricing.


What are the benefits of TPO roofs?


TPO roofing membranes are heat reflecting and energy efficient, in addition to being one of the most affordable materials on the market. The TPO roof reflects the sun's UV rays since they're primarily lighter in color. In the summer, indoor heat accumulation is reduced, and energy consumption is drastically lowered.


TPO roofs are also more easier to install than older roofing systems. Adhesives or direct attachment of the TPO roof to the roof deck are both options.


TPO roofs have the advantage of being flexible and resistant to corrosion.


TPO roofing systems are fairly resistant to punctures, tears, and dirt buildup due to their strength. 


Icicles hang from a roofline during a snowfall.
December 10, 2025
Ice dams already formed? Learn how to safely remove them, minimize damage, and plan long-term solutions for your Vermont or NH commercial roof.
Snow-covered roof of a building with a chimney. Tall evergreen trees and a cloudy sky in the background.
December 3, 2025
Learn how heavy snow affects your roof in VT & NH, the dangers of improper snow removal, and when to DIY or hire experts. Stay safe and protect your structure.
Snow-covered roof with smoking chimneys in front of a snowy forest on a sunny day.
November 28, 2025
Learn how snow buildup affects flat and low-slope roofs. Discover signs of roof overload and how to manage snow load risk with Rodd Roofing’s help.
Snow-covered tree in front of a building with snowy roof in winter. Blue sky.
November 19, 2025
See how Rodd Roofing restored a flat commercial roof before winter. Read the inspection findings, repairs made, and how the building is now fully protected.
Icicles hanging from a wooden roof against a blue sky.
November 12, 2025
Learn how ice dams form on flat and low-slope commercial roofs, the damage they cause, and how insulation, ventilation, and roof prep can stop them.
Snow-covered dormer windows on a stone building; evergreen trees in the background.
November 5, 2025
Follow this expert winterization checklist for VT commercial roofs. Avoid costly winter damage by prepping drainage, flashing, insulation, and more.
Snow-covered roof with icicles hanging from the edge, red siding below, against a clear blue sky.
October 23, 2025
Learn how proper roof ventilation and attic insulation prevent ice dams, leaks, and energy loss. Trust Rodd Roofing for system-wide roof health.
Blue corrugated metal roof covered in fallen leaves.
October 16, 2025
See how Rodd Roofing helped a VT business prepare its flat roof for winter. Real results, expert repairs, and long-term protection.
Aerial view of a rooftop garden with trees in autumn colors, green lawn, and a pathway next to water.
October 9, 2025
Discover how to maintain flat and low-slope roofs in VT & NH. Learn how to prevent ponding, snow damage, and drainage issues during harsh winters.
Brick building with autumn leaves against a blue sky.
October 2, 2025
Learn how proactive fall roof maintenance—like sealing flashing, repairing leaks, and securing materials—can prevent costly winter roofing emergencies in VT and NH.