TPO and EPDM roofs are most common in commercial applications but the rise in contemporary architecture has made it a necessity on many homes in Park City. TPO and EPDM are flat roofing solutions, they are not typically meant to be used on heavily sloped applications. What is the difference between TPO and EPDM?

TPO

TPO roofing systems involve a layer of a single-ply membrane composed of synthetic components. It consists of different rubber types that are usually a combination of polypropylene and ethylene-propylene rubber. A TPO membrane is either mechanically fastened or affixed through an adhesive that bonds to the roof deck.

TPO has been rapidly gaining in popularity thanks to its energy efficiency. TPO roofing is a white material that reflects sunlight, keeping building cooler during the hot summer months, saving building owners on energy costs. Many building owners have been looking at TPO instead of EPDM because of this.

EPDM

EPDM roofing systems involve an extremely durable synthetic rubber roofing membrane. The material is very similar to TPO but it is typically darker in color and has a different chemical makeup. EPDM has for a long time been the most popular commercial flat roofing product used.

TPO Advantages

• Welded seams create one continues surface, making TPO roofs incredibly water tight.

• Energy efiicient: white TPO membranes are a “cool” roofing technology, but other colors of TPO are also formulated to have sun reflective properties.

EPDM Advantages

•EPDM roofs are the most economical choice for single ply roofing membranes.

•An EPDM rubber roof is easier and faster to install than a TPO roofing membrane. EPDM doesn’t require specialized equipment for installation unlike TPO that needs to be welded together

• EPDM membrane roofs are easier to repair than TPO roofs

Conclusion

TPO and EPDM are both great flat roofing solutions that have been used in commercial applications for decades. With the rise of flat roofs in residential building, TPO and EPDM have become an important solution on homes in Park City and around the country.