TPO, EPDM, vs PVC – What Roof Is Right for you?
If you want a new roof installed for your business, you likely have questions about the best roofing material. Maybe you’ve heard of various options but aren’t sure which will work best for your needs. Perhaps some of the roofing styles you’ve heard about sound confusing.
Unless you’re in the roofing business, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the many acronyms such as EPDM, TPO, and PVC. So, to help you choose the right option for you, this guide from Elevated Contracting will go into the differences between EPDM and TPO.
Keep reading, or reach out to our roofing contractors today to get started!
Basic Info on TPO, EPDM, and PVC
These three roofing materials are different kinds of single-ply membranes for rooftops. They are different from the outer layer of roofing material; instead, they act as another layer on top of the insulation layer in the roofing system.
These single-ply membrane roofs are usually made of rubber or other synthetic materials, and they come in sheets that are installed. Most of the time, they are adhered to the insulation layer by the roofing contractor.
Usually, single-ply roofing membranes are for flat roofing styles, so they are popular for various commercial buildings.
What Is EPDM Roofing?
The first common type of single-ply roofing membrane is EPDM. This is a rubber material and the acronym stands for ethylene propylene diene monomer. While this name might sound quite technical, it comes from the various chemical components.
This option is standard for commercial roofs but is also used for residential buildings with flat roofing areas.
What Is TPO Roofing?
TPO is another common kind of single-ply membrane, and it’s quickly becoming one of the most popular options for commercial roofs. The acronym here stands for thermoplastic polyolefin. This synthetic material is also used for flat or primarily flat roofs. Despite the name, it’s not a plastic material. Instead, it’s another kind of rubber.
What Is PVC Roofing?
Finally, there’s PVC roofing, which stands for polyvinyl chlorine. Just like the other two options, this is ideal for flat commercial roofs. PVC membranes are cool roof membranes, so they have Energy Star and Cool roof ratings. Overall, it’s a good option for those who care about energy efficiency or who want to save money in the long term on their electricity bills.
Pros And Cons Of EPDM, TPO, and PVC Roofing
Now that you know the basics of these three roofing membranes, it’s time to look at the overall pros and cons. As with all roofing systems, there are benefits and drawbacks to all three options. You may have many questions, such as “what is the difference between PVC and TPO roofing?”
Overall, TPO, EPDM vs PVC is about choosing the best roofing system for your building.
Let’s dive deeper into the pros and cons of each option.
Learn more about the right roofing choice for you by visiting our page on commercial roofing materials.
Pros and Cons Of EPDM
EPDM has many pros. One of the main benefits is that it’s pretty easy to install. It comes in large sheets, so roofing contractors can easily roll out the material. Because it’s so easy and fast to install, it’s also one of the cheaper options. In fact, it’s one of the cheaper roofing materials, in general. So, if you’re looking at EPDM rubber roofing cost, it can’t really be beat.
Another significant benefit of EPDM is that it’s a very light material. It doesn’t have many seams, so it’s a good option if you’re worried about water damage. Generally, EPDM rooftops can last for up to or over 20 years.
The main con with EPDM rooftops is the look. While some people don’t mind the appearance of these roofs, the material is black and flat, so it might not be the most aesthetically pleasing option.
Pros and Cons Of TPO Roofing
The central pro with TPO roofing systems is that they are good at reflecting light. The material is white, so it’s a good option if you want to keep the building from getting too warm. It’s a good option in warm climates. Another major pro of TPO roofing is that it is durable. It’s good at resisting mold and is unlikely to puncture.
The main con to consider is that while the material is cheap to purchase, it generally costs more to install. So, something to consider when looking at TPO vs. EPDM is cost.
Pros and Cons of PVC Roofing
PVC is the right choice if you want an energy-efficient roofing system. Because it has Energy Star and Cool Roof ratings, it’s the best option for lower utility bills and also less impact on the environment.
Along with being eco-friendly, it’s also an extremely tough material. It has a high breaking strength. PVC roofs usually last 20 years or more. And, for commercial buildings, they are a good choice as they are resistant to fire.
Given all of these pros, it’s hard to see why you wouldn’t choose PVC roofing. But, the major drawback here is the cost. Overall, it’s a more expensive material. It can also cost more to install. Finally, PVC isn’t the best option for colder climates as it can be prone to cracking.
The Right Roofing System
If you’re still unsure of TPO, EPDM, vs PVC, the experts at Elevated Contracting are ready to help. We can go through the benefits and drawbacks of each option and get you started with a roof you can rely on. We are more than happy to help!
Call today to get started with your new roof!
