Thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) is a complex mixture of polypropylene, polyethylene and other materials. It resembles plastic or rubber sheets and is widely used to cover the flat roofs of commercial, institutional and industrial buildings. It is often covered with gravel “ballast” to prevent damage due to wind and sun.
TPO membranes is relatively resistant to breakage, but if it breaks (or is perforated), it can allow water to infiltrate, which will cause its degradation. The ballast that is added to hold the sheets in place and provide additional protection against the sun may contribute to the perforation if the membrane, if it is disturbed by the wind or by people who perform maintenance operations on the roof.
TPO is environmentally friendly and resistant to mold and algae.
If you ask Flower Mound roofers about TPO roof coating requirements, they will tell you that the biggest problem with good quality TPO, which has been installed correctly, is that it can be affected by solar exposure. Over the years, its UV resistance can weaken, and the TPO roof will dry out and break. This is a particular problem especially in areas where there are many sunny days per year.
One way to prevent the aging problem caused by UV radiation is to buy a white TPO membrane. White TPO is energy star certified, because it reflects 80% of UV radiation (ENERGY STAR requires only 65%).
