TPO stands for thermoplastic polyolefin, a single-ply roofing membrane that’s made from a blend of polypropylene and ethylene propylene rubber:
Composition: TPO is made up of three layers: a TPO polymer base, a polyester-reinforced scrim, and a TPO compounded top ply.
Appearance: TPO roofs are white and shiny, with a reflective appearance.
Installation: TPO 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