I have a flat, commercial roof on my building in Longmont CO. It needs to be replaced.  Do I ask for an EPDM or a TPO roof?  What is the main difference?

You have 2 main different types of roofing material for a flat roof on a commercial or even residential building – TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) single-ply membrane roof system or an EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) synthetic rubber roofing membrane.

Honestly, there is no easy answer as to which material is better.  They both are durable and cost-effective options for a metal roof, which can be much more expensive. And they both have some good and not as good factors to consider.

There are several other membrane roofing systems that can be used on a flat roof in certain situations, but in this article, we are going to focus on the pros and cons of just TPO vs EPDM.

Let’s take a look.

First, if you have a flat roof on a commercial or residential building, and you are not quite sure if you have an EPDM or a TPO roof system, you can quickly look for a few items on the roof to figure it out. As a general rule of thumb – if your roof is black, it’s most likely an EPDM material.  White would most likely be TPO. Next, look at the “sheen” of the material.  EPDM has more of a matte finish vs a shiny surface for TPO.  You can also tell by actually touching it.  Since EPDM is made of rubber, think of a tire innertube, it’s a little bouncy to the touch whereas TPO is harder and can have a mesh in its layers for strength and is made from plastic.  Lastly, look at the seams. TPO will have seams that are mechanically welded whereas EPDM will have fewer seams because it comes in wider rolls and the seams are glued and taped by hand.

Let’s start our comparison by saying that under the EPDM or TPO systems, the substructure of the single-ply material is almost identical in how it is built out. So, it really comes down to the choice of surface material.

Here are several overarching factors that you may want to consider when you are deciding which material to use:

1. Down to basics: as a roofing membrane – TPO is made from plastic, and EPDM is made from rubber.
2. Color choice: EPDM is commonly sold only in Black. Other colors can be specially ordered. TPO is primarily white and can be found in grey, tan, and a few additional colors.
3. Local climate: TPO is a better choice in hotter climate ranges because it reflects the harsh sunlight. EPDM is usually black and holds it heat better during colder temperatures.
4. Height of the Building: TPO weighs less than EPDM so it has an advantage of a taller building. TPO also has “welded” seams, so it tends to do a bit better with high winds. EPDM is a slightly better choice for roofs close to the ground and is slightly less expensive.
5. Cost: TPO is slightly more expensive to install and repair than EPDM because of the labor factor.

TPO vs. EPDM

Comparing 2 types of Single-Ply Roofing Membrane 

TPO – has been in the marketplace for approx. 20+ years / EPDM has been used for over 60 years. In the US, TPO’s popularity is building and about 50% of all commercial roofs are now made from TPO.

TPO is Chemically Adhered along with a hot air “welding” of the seams. Requires electricity to do it. Having the availability of electricity can be an issue in some situations. EPDM is Mechanically adhered with adhesive. Rolled on with anchors and seam tape. Manual Installation and requires no electricity.

TPO reflects Sunlight so it’s more energy efficient in the summer and hotter climates whereas EPDM retains heat from sunlight. A better choice for cost efficiency for winter and a number of different climates.

TPO is slightly more expensive than EPDM because of the equipment it takes to “weld” the seams on TPO.  The welded seams tend to last longer in extreme weather and high winds.

TPO is about 3x more resistant to punctures than EPDM which potentially means fewer leaks with proper maintenance.  But EPDM lasts longer and is slightly more resistant to weathering and has a 60-year track record.

TPO typically has a manufacturer warranty of 15 to 20 years vs EPDM on average lasts 20 to 25 years. You can get up to a 30-year manufacturer warranty with certain thickness membranes with EPDM. This is climate dependent.

EPDM can be found in wider rolls than TPO. So that you can potentially have fewer “seams” with an EPDM roof system.

Also, both TPO and EPDM are manufactured by a number of different companies.  Quality is not always consistent from company to company. Ask your contractor about their opinion on the quality of the material to get the most longevity possible out of your new roof.  They are going to have to stand by the manufactures warranty.  They will know.

In conclusion, looking at this list of pros and cons for each of the two materials may help you decide what might work best for you based on your needs.

Be sure to consult with your roofing contractor too.  Since the pandemic, in some areas of the country, commercial roofing materials have been in short supply and certain materials and accessories can be tough to find. Some supply companies are still not getting their regular quotas for their orders met yet.  So, your choice might be limited to the availability of materials.

As always, do regular inspections and any necessary maintenance and repairs right away to ensure the longevity of your roof so it lasts as long as possible.

If you need help making the right choice on replacing your flat roof here on the Colorado Front Range.  Give us a call!  We would love to come out and take a look at your roof and help you come up with a plan that is right for you.

We have years of experience in Commercial and Residential Roofing and we would love to share our expertise with you.

Roof damage is a common issue in Longmont, Colorado, due to the large hailstorms that frequently occur in the area. The Colorado Front Range is called “Hail Alley”. In this article, we will discuss the top 5 roof damage issues in Longmont and how to prevent or repair them.

Hail damage: Hailstones can range in size from pea-sized to tennis ball-sized, and they can cause significant damage to a roof. Hailstones can dent or crack shingles, causing them to become less effective at protecting your home from water damage. If you suspect that your roof has been damaged by hail, it is important to have it inspected by a professional as soon as possible. To prevent hail damage, consider installing a “Class-4 Impact Resistant” shingle when it’s time to replace your next roof. A little extra cost goes a LONG way in protecting your roof and it can get you a significant discount on your homeowner insurance with your Insurance carrier.

Wind damage: High winds can cause shingles to become loose, fold over, or can be completely torn off of a roof. This can lead to water infiltration and damage to the interior of your home. To prevent wind damage, make sure that your roof is properly secured and that your shingles are in good condition. If you notice any loose or missing shingles, have them repaired or replaced as soon as possible. Taking care of the outside of your roof will go a long way in protecting the inside of your house. The newer shingles that have been developed over the last 10 to 15 years withstand MUCH higher wind velocities than older 3-Tab or T-lock shingles. T-lock shingles are no longer manufactured.  So, if you have them on your roof and have any damage whatsoever Insurance will most likely have to replace your roof. The newer shingles also require 5 to 6 nails on each shingle rather than 4 like the older shingles for the updated wind ratings too.

Water damage: Water infiltration can occur when a roof is not properly sealed or when it is damaged. Water damage can lead to the growth of mold and mildew, which can be harmful to your health and the structure of your home. You might not think of mold and mildew on the Front Range because of how dry it tends to be but once the moisture gets into your attic, it can grow over time. To prevent water damage, make sure that your roof is properly sealed with a regular roof inspection and maintenance every 3 to 5 years. That way, any damage can get repaired as soon as it is discovered.

Ice dams: Ice dams occur when snow on the roof melts and then refreezes at the edge of the roof. This can create a dam that prevents water from properly draining off of the roof and gutters. This has been a very common occurrence this Winter. The snow will freeze and get up under the shingle and push back up under the shingle and work its way past the underlayment. This can lead to water infiltration and damage to the interior of your home. To prevent ice dams, make sure that your roof is properly insulated and that your gutters are clear of debris before wintertime comes around.  Get a long “snow rake” to pull snow off the lower areas of the house where ice build-up happens if you have a one-story home.  If you know that Ice Dams are a regular issue, you can also install “heat tape” along the eve of the roof and in your gutters to help it from showing up.

Animal damage: Animals such as squirrels, birds, and raccoons can cause damage to a roof by digging or scratching at the shingles. We see this type of damage all the time during inspections. The animals are trying to get out of the extreme weather. They burrow into any area that is not properly sealed. Even the smallest of open areas on your roof can invite a “critter” to make a nest. This can create openings that allow water to infiltrate the roof and damage the interior of your home. It can also lead to having animals in your attic and up in the roofing structure which can become a major issue. To prevent animal damage, consider installing protective wire barriers on vulnerable areas of your roof, under solar panels, and trimming back any branches that are near the roof. You can also have our roofer secure certain areas of penetration and add extra caulk to points that might seem inviting for animals to enter.  Below is a picture of a home where we did some repairs on the soffit and fascia. The metal plates were the homeowner’s attempt at covering the holes in the siding that a woodpecker kept coming back to over and over again.  You can see at the top of the picture where the birds got into the soffits by pulling them back to have just enough of a hole to sneak in and get out of the extreme weather.

In conclusion, the top 5 roof damage issues in Longmont, Colorado are hail damage, wind damage, water damage, ice dams, and animal damage. To prevent or repair these issues, it is important to have a professional inspect your roof regularly and address any damage as soon as it is discovered. By taking these precautions, you can protect your home and ensure that it stays in good condition for years to come.

When it comes to protecting your home from the large hailstones that are common on the Front Range of Colorado, the type of roof you have can make a big difference. In this article, we will discuss the top types of roofing materials that are ideal for resisting hail damage, as well as the advantages, and cost comparison of each roof type.

Metal roofing: Metal roofing is one of the most durable roofing options available and is resistant to most hail damage depending on the thickness of the metal. It’s also good for heavy snowfall areas too. Metal roofing is available in a variety of styles and colors and can last for decades with proper maintenance and the appropriate underlayment. Additionally, metal roofing is fire-resistant and also energy-efficient, which can lower your cooling and heating costs. They tend to be more expensive than other options, but can last for 30-50 years and can increase a home’s value when you go to sell. It’s very popular along the Front Range and in the Mountains.

Concrete and Clay Tile Roofing: Concrete and clay tile roofing are also highly resistant to hail damage and can last upwards of 50 years with proper maintenance. Some clay tile roofs in Europe have last 100’s of years. They are fire-resistant, energy-efficient, and offer a high level of durability and weather resistance. These are also more expensive than traditional asphalt shingles but can last a lot longer, look great and increase home value.  NOTE: As durable as concrete tiles are to weather, a number of Insurance Companies do not recognize a lot of different Tile manufacturers for a Class 4 – Impact Resistant premium discount.  Check with your agent to see if your manufacturer is on the list.

Composite/Fiberglass shingles: There are a number of new Composite options for a roofing material that are coming onto the market every year.  We are not early adopters of them because we feel like they need to be battle-tested with our weather on the Front Range. Fiberglass shingles are a more affordable option than a Metal Roof or even a Tile Roof. There are a number of different types. They are also resistant to hail damage and lighter material and can last for up to 20+ years with proper maintenance. They are also fire-resistant. They come in a variety of colors and styles, but they may not last as long as the other options. And because they are thinner and lighter than are not really great in colder climates because they provide a little less insulation and can crack in the colder temperatures.

Architectural Asphalt Shingles: Class 4 – Impact-resistant shingles: Impact-resistant shingles are a popular choice for homes in the Front Range area, as they are specially designed to resist hail damage. These shingles are constructed from a combination of asphalt and a rubber polymer and are rated to withstand hailstones of up to 2 inches in diameter. These shingles are more affordable than Metal or Concrete Tile roofs. And a little more than a traditional Asphalt Shingle. When installed correctly they can last up to 20 or 25 years with proper maintenance. They come in many colors, are Fire Resistant, and are an upgrade to a traditional shingle.  A Class 4 IR Shingle can also get you up to a 25% Discount on your Homeowners Insurance with some carriers.  We at Denny’s Roofing like it so much that we put a Class 4 IR Shingle on almost every new roof we put on. The cost vs value of this product is spectacular.  Ask us more when we come out to take a look at your roof.

In conclusion, when it comes to resisting hail damage in the Front Range area of Colorado, metal, concrete, and clay tile, composite shingle, fiberglass shingles, and asphalt class-4 impact-resistant shingles are among the best options. Each of these roofing types has its own advantages and cost considerations. While metal, concrete, and clay tile roofing may be more expensive, they have a longer lifespan and can increase the value of your home. Impact-resistant shingles may be more affordable and still offers good resistance to hail damage. Ultimately, the best option for your home will depend on your specific needs, budget, and preferences. It is always recommended to speak with a professional roofing contractor to find out what is the best choice for your home. Give us a call to discuss the options!

Living in the Front Range area of Colorado, residents are no strangers to the powerful hailstorms that can occur in the region. After a hailstorm, it is crucial to have your roof thoroughly inspected, as hail damage can be difficult to spot and may not be immediately obvious if you are not sure what you are looking for. In this article, we will discuss why it is important to have your roof inspected by a professional roofer after a hailstorm in the Front Range area.

Preventing water infiltration: Even small dents or cracks in your shingles caused by even small hailstones can weaken their ability to protect your home from water infiltration. This can lead to leaks, mold growth, and significant damage to the interior of your home. A professional inspection of your roof will identify any damage that may have occurred and help to prevent water infiltration.

Identifying hidden damage: Oftentimes, hail damage is not visible from the ground, or the homeowner may not have noticed it. A professional inspection of your roof will be able to identify damage that is not immediately obvious, such as damage to the underlayment or structural elements. This will ensure that any damage is addressed before it becomes more severe. Also, if you see your neighbors getting their roofs inspected or even replaced, there is a good chance that you have some damage too.  Unless you have a new roofing system that is designed to resist hail damage.  They exist now.

Protecting your investment: A roof is a significant investment for any homeowner. By having your roof professionally inspected and maintained after a hailstorm, you can ensure that it remains in good condition and protects your home for many years to come. This can also help to maintain the value of your home if you decide to sell it in the future.

Insurance: Many insurance policies have a time limit for homeowners to file hail damage claims, as well as need a professional inspection of the roof. Getting your roof inspected by a professional after a hailstorm can help you to identify damage that is covered by your insurance policy and submit a claim before the deadline.

Preventing further damage: A roof that is damaged by hailstorms is more susceptible to damage from other weather events such as wind. By having your roof inspected and any damage repaired, you can prevent further damage from occurring and ensure that your roof remains in good condition.

In conclusion, it is essential to have your roof inspected after a hailstorm if you live in the Front Range area of Colorado. Not only will this help to prevent water infiltration and identify hidden damage, but it will also protect your investment, help with insurance claims, and prevent further damage. Regular roof inspections are an important part of maintaining the integrity of your home, and in the Front Range, it’s especially important after any hail storm.