If you've seen a crisp, white commercial roof glinting in the South Florida sun, chances are you've seen TPO roofing in action.
TPO, short for Thermoplastic Olefin, is one of the fastest-growing commercial roofing types in the U.S. — and for good reason. It's durable, energy-efficient, and cost-effective, making it an excellent option for businesses, HOAs, and property managers looking to protect their investments while reducing cooling costs.
In this article, we'll break down everything you need to know about TPO roofing, how it performs in real-world conditions, and why Best Roofing considers it a go-to solution for many commercial properties.
What Is TPO Roofing?
TPO roofing system (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) is a single-ply membrane system that combines polypropylene and ethylene-propylene rubber. It's manufactured in large sheets (typically up to 12' wide and 100' long), then welded together on-site to create a seamless, watertight surface.
Best Roofing's forensic specialists have been installing TPO systems across South Florida since its rise in the 1990s. The system has earned its popularity by delivering:
- High reflectivity for energy savings
- Strong resistance to UV, ozone, and chemicals
- Low maintenance needs compared to traditional systems
- Quick installation, reducing labor costs
Ideal Use Cases for TPO Roofing
TPO roofing is especially effective for:
- Flat or low-sloped commercial roofs
- Warehouses and distribution centers
- Shopping plazas and malls
- Office buildings and condominiums
- Any facility looking to reduce heat gain and energy usage
Insulation Options for TPO Roofs
One of the benefits of TPO roofing is that you can pair it with the insulation that best fits your budget and performance goals:
- Polyisocyanurate (Polyiso): Offers the highest R-value per inch, though more expensive
- Expanded Polystyrene (EPS): Cost-effective, high R-value per dollar
- Extruded Polystyrene (XPS): Mid-range in cost and performance, semi-permeable
At Best Roofing, we help you determine which insulation makes the most sense based on your building's structure, energy use, and climate exposure.
How Is TPO Roofing Installed?
Installation is precise and efficient:
- The existing roof is prepped (cleaned or torn off depending on condition)
- The chosen insulation is installed
- The TPO membrane is laid over a cover board
- Seams are heat-welded with a hot air gun to create a unified surface
TPO Roofing Costs
While prices vary by market and scope, there are key factors that affect cost:
- Total roof size
- Condition of the existing roof
- Type and thickness of insulation
- Membrane thickness (usually 60, or 80 mils)
- Number of penetrations (vents, HVAC, etc.)
- Roof accessibility
- Warranty terms
Advantages of TPO Roofing
TPO systems offer multiple benefits that make them stand out:
- Highly reflective white surface reduces cooling loads
- Lightweight material adds minimal stress to the building
- Resists mold, algae, and dirt, keeping energy performance high
- Class A fire resistance when properly installed
- Fewer seams, reducing potential leak points
- Customizable insulation, giving building owners greater control
How Long Does a TPO Roof Last?
When installed correctly and maintained regularly, a TPO roof can last 20 years or more.
With proper care — including semi-annual inspections and minor upkeep — some systems stretch to 30 years, especially those with thicker membranes and premium warranties.
How TPO Roofing Saves You Money
The biggest savings come from energy efficiency. White TPO roofs reflect solar radiation, reducing heat gain inside the building. This means:
- Lower cooling bills in summer
- Extended lifespan of HVAC equipment
- Potential qualification for green building credits or tax incentives
In addition, TPO's low maintenance needs and long warranty periods reduce your long-term total cost of ownership.
How TPO Roofs Are Repaired or Restored
We recommend doing a recovery if Less Than 25% of the Roof Is Saturated:
- Wet insulation is removed and replaced
- Surface is cleaned and prepped
- Seams are reinforced
- A silicone coating is applied
- A new 10-20 year warranty can be issued
If More Than 25% Is Saturated:
A full tear-off may be required. At this point, Best Roofing may recommend:
- A new TPO installation
- A spray foam system as an alternative for improved R-value and seamless coverage
TPO vs Other Roofing Systems
A full system comparison depends on your building, budget, and climate. TPO often outperforms other systems like:
- EPDM (less reflective)
- BUR (more labor-intensive)
- Metal (higher upfront costs)
- Spray foam (not recommended in humid climates)
Ready to Explore TPO for Your Roof?
At Best Roofing, we've been installing and restoring TPO roofing systems for decades. Our Forensic Roof Specialists are experts in evaluating your roof, identifying risks, and recommending the right solution — with no sales pressure.
Whether you're planning a new install or exploring repair options, we're here to help you get the most value out of your roofing investment.
Book a free TPO inspection today and get expert guidance backed by South Florida's leading commercial roofing team.