TPO

A single-ply roofing membrane that chemically bonds rubber, ethylene, and propylene—as well as numerous filler materials—TPO roofs have been vastly growing in popularity ever since their introduction in the early 1990s.

Part of what is fueling TPO’s recent rise is its energy efficiency, as these types of commercial roofs are more readily available in white and light gray (as well as in black) compared to their closest competitors: PVC and EPDM. TPO is said to offer the best of both EPDM and PVC in one package. The material is closer to a rubber roof in cost, but it also features welded seams for durability—like PVC membranes.