TPO stands for thermoplastic polyolefin, a single-ply roofing membrane that’s made from a blend of polypropylene and ethylene propylene rubber: 

 
  • CompositionTPO is made up of three layers: a TPO polymer base, a polyester-reinforced scrim, and a TPO compounded top ply. 
     
  • AppearanceTPO roofs are white and shiny, with a reflective appearance. 
     
  • InstallationTPO roofs are attached to the roof using mechanical fasteners, adhesives, and heat welding.

TPO EverGuard Smooth

Extreme version is available!

Durable. Efficient. Proven.
GAF knows thermoplastic polyolefin
(TPO). Our EverGuard® TPO membrane
construction has remained unchanged
for decades. It’s just one of the reasons
we’ve sold more than 6 billion square
feet. 

 EverGuard® TPO offers flexibility,
durability, UV reflectivity, and heat sealable
properties. It’s inherently
fungal resistant* and flexible without
using plasticizers. Available in nominal
and minimum thicknesses.
Competitive pricing and a 20-plus-year
track record for performance make
TPO the most popular option in the
commercial roofing industry and
specialized training from GAF Roofing
It Right videos and CARE classes add
to GAF’s unmatched technical support.

TPO Fleece-back Membrane

Extreme version is available!

Combine performance and value
with EverGuard® TPO Fleece-Back
Membrane 45-mil, 60-mil, and 80-mil.
Factory-applied polyester fleece lets
you offer the proven performance
of EverGuard® TPO, while increasing
durability and reducing labor:

  • Provides enhanced puncture
    resistance against foot traffic, hail,
    and other impacts
  • Does not require a slip sheet when installed over a variety of existing roof systems
  • Guarantees available according
    to thickness, with coverage up to
    30 years for 80-mil.

Roofing Membranes Comparison

TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin)

  • Single Ply made with blend of ethylene propylene rubber and polypropylene
  • Easy to install and Great Seam Strength due to Heat Weld capability and adhesives
  • Energy Star Rated
  • Fungal and mold resistant
  • Durability that lasts
  • Resistance to mold, punctures, and tears.
  • The heat-reflective properties of TPO help reduce energy consumption, making it an eco-friendly choice for savvy property owners.
  • Available in multiple colors including white
  • 25-30 Years

EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)

  • Single Ply made with synthetic rubber material
  • Easy to install
  • Bit more expensive than TPO
  • Durable that lasts 
  • Resistant to punctures (not as good as TPO, PVC and Mod Bit)
  • Black color (limited color choices but does have white)
  • Not as UV resistant as other membranes
  • 20-25 years

Modified Butimen

  • 2 Ply system with a Base Sheet and typically we use this for Overlays
  • Asphalt membranes with polymerized rubber or plastic and is reinforced with fiberglass
  • Ideal for overlay on Tar or asphalt roofs
  • Heat resistant
  • Puncture a tear resistant
  • Typically last less years than TPO or EPDM

PVC

  • Good on punctures 

  • Great initial flexibility, due to the addition of plasticizers

  • Great seam strength due to heat-welded seams

  • Highly reflective – white 

  • Very chemical-resistant compared to other membranes

  • Good warranty programs

  • Bleed-out during welding confirms the quality of the weld visually

TPO accounts for over 50% of all Flat Roofs