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Comparing Flat Roofing Materials: TPO Vs. EPDM Vs. PVC

Sean Levine  |  November 12, 2024  |   |  No Comments

The materials you choose are very important when thinking about a flat roof for your home or business. Each material has pros and cons that affect how long it lasts, how much it costs, and how much energy it uses. If you are a homeowner, talking to a skilled roofer can help you sort through these choices and choose the one that fits your needs the best. We will look at TPO, EPDM, and PVC, three common types of flat roofing materials, side by side.

  1. A Look at the Materials Used for Flat Roofs

It's important to know what TPO, EPDM, and PVC are before getting into the details.

  • TPO is a single-layer roofing material made from polypropylene and ethylene-propylene rubber. It is known for being energy-efficient and shiny.
  • EPDM, which stands for ethylene propylene diene monomer, is a synthetic rubber membrane that has been utilized within the roofing industry for a considerable amount of time. It's very strong and bendable, so it can be used in a lot of different conditions.
  • Polyvinyl chloride (PVC): This is another single-ply roofing material that is known for being strong and resistant to fire, chemicals, and holes.
  1. Durability and Extended Life

TPO

Compared to EPDM and PVC, TPO roofing is not very old. Based on how well it was installed and maintained, it should last between 15 and 25 years. TPO is made to resist UV light, which makes it a good choice for places that get a lot of sun. But its longevity can be very different depending on who made it and how thick the membrane is.

EPDM

EPDM roofs are known for staying a long time. With proper care, they can last 20 to 30 years or even longer. Extreme weather conditions, like hail and heavy rain, won't hurt the material. Due of its flexibility, it can expand and contract with temperature.

PVC

PVC roofing membranes are one of the strongest, lasting 20–30 years. They can stand up to fire and chemicals, which makes them a great choice for business buildings that might be exposed to harsh materials. Welded gaps in PVC also make it waterproof, which lowers the risk of leaks.

  1. Thoughts on Cost

TPO

Most people think that TPO is one of the more affordable choices for flat roofs. It is less expensive to install than EPDM and PVC at the beginning of the process. But the long-term results can be different, so it's important to think about both the costs now and the costs that might come up in the future when making your choice.

EPDM

Most of the time, EPDM roofing is in the middle of the price range for flat roof materials. Because it lasts a long time, you may not have to spend as much on fixes and replacements over time. The process of placement is also easy, which can help keep costs low for labour.

PVC

When it comes to roofing, PVC is typically the option that comes with the highest initial cost. But because it lasts a long time and doesn't get damaged easily, it may be a better choice in the long run, especially for business buildings where the roof will likely see more wear and tear.

  1. Using less energy

TPO

TPO is famous for being able to bounce light, which can help keep buildings cooler in warmer places. Because it is light, it reflects sunshine, which keeps the building cooler and lowers the need for air conditioning. Because of this, TPO is a good choice for businesses and homes that care about saving energy.

EPDM

Even though EPDM roofing lasts a long time, it is usually black, which means it soaks up heat instead of reflecting it. There are, however, white-coated choices that can make them more energy efficient. It can be helpful in colder places to keep houses warmer in the winter because it keeps heat in.

PVC

PVC roofs are also good at saving energy, especially white or light-colored ones that let light bounce off of them. Like TPO, this can lead to lower cooling bills. Because it is energy-efficient, PVC is a good choice for business buildings that want to cut down on their energy costs.

  1. Setting up

TPO

Installing TPO is pretty easy, and you can usually choose between fully adhered or mechanically attached choices. It's not heavy, which makes it easy for roofers to move. Low maintenance is usually enough, but it's best to check on it regularly to find any problems early.

EPDM

EPDM roofs can be entirely adhered, mechanically attached, or ballasted. As part of maintenance, seams and flashing need to be checked and fixed on a frequent basis. EPDM is known for being easy to fix; all you need are some simple patching skills.

PVC

Installing PVC is usually more difficult and needs trained roofers who know how to use heat to join pieces together. This method makes parts that are strong, waterproof, and less likely to leak. PVC roofs don't need much upkeep, but they should still be inspected regularly to make sure they last as long as possible.

Conclusion

What kind of flat roofing material you choose will depend on your wants, your budget, and the weather where you live. The cost-effective TPO option is very good at saving energy, while the long-lasting and flexible EPDM version is the best. Even though it costs more, PVC is better at protecting against chemicals and holes.


Get in touch with us at 68-38 Main Street #2 Flushing, NY 11367 (718)489-4009 https://www.kingsqueensroofing.com  for a meeting if you want to buy a new flat roof or need repairs on an old one. Our skilled staff is here to help you through the process and make sure your roofing job goes well.

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