Thermoplastic polyolefin single-ply
TPO
A heat-welded white single-ply membrane. The default specification for low-slope commercial work in the Carolinas because the reflective surface measurably reduces summer cooling load.
Composition
Polypropylene and ethylene-propylene rubber blend over a polyester scrim, installed over polyiso insulation and a coverboard. Mechanically attached, induction welded, or fully adhered depending on deck type and wind uplift requirements.
Thickness options
45, 60, and 80 mil. We specify 60 mil as a floor on any roof with regular foot traffic.
Seam method
Hot-air welded seams, robot welded on open field runs and hand welded at penetrations. Every seam is probe-tested before the crew leaves the section.
Expected service life
20 to 30 years depending on membrane thickness, traffic, and whether the roof is on a maintenance program.
Specification note
TPO formulations improved substantially after 2010. If a building has a first-generation TPO roof, expect shorter remaining service life than the original warranty implies.
Best applications
- Distribution and warehouse space where cooling load matters
- Big-box and multi-tenant retail centers
- New construction with tight budget and long warranty expectations
- Buildings pursuing an energy rating on a reflective roof surface
Warranty terms
- 20, 25, and 30-year manufacturer NDL options on 60 and 80 mil assemblies
- Wind coverage to 72 mph standard, upgradable to 120 mph with enhanced fastening
- Two-year Meridian workmanship warranty layered underneath the manufacturer term
- Annual documented inspection required to keep the NDL term in force
At a glance
- Typical lifespan
- 20–30 years
- Best-fit building
- Distribution, retail, light manufacturing
- Warranty
- Up to 30-year NDL
- Installed cost
- $6.50 – $10.50 per square foot installed, including tear-off and R-30 insulation
Cost ranges are representative of Carolinas commercial work and vary with deck condition, insulation package, and rooftop equipment density.
