TPO vs. PVC Roofing: Which Is the Better Choice?

August 2, 2022

When it comes to selecting the right roofing material for your property, it is important to choose wisely. The durability, cost and sustainability of your roofing material can all have a significant impact on your building’s longevity and efficiency. Understanding the difference between TPO and PVC roofing can help you make an informed decision about which material will best suit your needs.

Thermoplastic Olefin (TPO) roofing

TPO roofing is a membrane made of a combination of rubber, ethylene-propylene, and filler materials. It is a popular choice due to its energy efficiency, durability, and ease of installation. The material is available in white or light colors which reflect UV rays and heat, thus reducing air conditioning costs. TPO roofing is also resistant to chemical damage, UV radiation, and punctures.

Advantages of TPO roofing:

1. Easy to install: Installation of TPO roofing is relatively easy since it can be directly applied over existing roofing materials, thus saving time and money.

2. Energy-efficient: White TPO roofing reflects sunlight, reducing heat absorption and air conditioning costs.

3. Durability: TPO roofing is resistant to punctures and other forms of damage. The material can retain its shape and appearance for up to twenty-five years.

4. Reduced maintenance: The material is resistant to mildew and mold, which means that you will not need to replace your roof frequently.

Disadvantages of TPO roofing:

1. Limited colors: TPO roofing is only available in white, gray or black.

2. Susceptible to shrinking and tears: TPO roofs are known to shrink and develop tears in areas where they are subjected to intense sunlight and extreme temperatures.

3. Less environmentally friendly: TPO roofs are not eco-friendly as they are not biodegradable and end up in landfills, contributing to environmental pollution.

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) roofing

PVC roofing is a single ply membrane made of polyvinyl chloride material. It is considered one of the most durable roofing materials due to its ability to resist chemicals, weather elements, and fire. PVC roofing is also available in a wide range of colors, making it an excellent choice when considering the aesthetics of your property.

Advantages of PVC roofing:

1. Durability: PVC roofing is exceptionally durable and can withstand harsh weather and extreme temperatures, while retaining its shape and appearance for up to thirty years.

2. Easy to maintain: The material is treated with UV protection and waterproof properties, which TPO roofing prevents mold and mildew buildup and reduces maintenance costs.

3. Energy-efficient: PVC roofing can be installed with insulation materials, which improves energy efficiency by reducing heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer.

4. Recyclability: PVC roofing is recyclable, making it eco-friendly, and a step towards sustainable development.

Disadvantages of PVC roofing:

1. Cost: PVC roofing is relatively expensive compared to other roofing materials.

2. Shrinking: Some PVC roofing materials like the low-quality ones can shrink over time when exposed to extreme temperatures, resulting in seams opening.

3. Installation: PVC roofing is difficult to install and requires a more specialized and experienced contractor.

In conclusion, when choosing between TPO and PVC roofing, consider your budget, preferences, and location. TPO roofing is easy to install and offers energy efficiency, but is not as durable as PVC roofing. PVC roofing offers durability, a wide range of colors, energy efficiency, and is eco-friendly but can be comparatively expensive. By weighing the pros and cons of both materials, you can make an informed decision about which roofing material will best suit your needs. Either way, ensure to get professional installation services to guarantee durability and performance.