EPDM vs. TPO Roofing

EPDM (or ethylene propylene diene monomer) is a synthetic rubber that is most commonly used in single-ply roofing because it's readily available and relatively easy to apply. It has advanced significantly over recent years, but had some previous issues.

Those problems included moisture gain under the membrane by vapor drive and that it didn't like to adhere to itself and seam problems occurred because of that. Adding a vapor barrier helped resolve the vapor drive and seaming became simple with the addition of Factory Applied Tape, which also resulted in a faster installation.

The tapes reduced labor by as much as 75%. This is relatively low-cost, and when properly applied in appropriate places, it can have a life-span of up to 30 years or more.

The TPO (or thermoplastic polyolefin) is also a single-ply roofing. The material can be fully adhered, mechanically fastened, or ballasted. The seam strengths are reported to be three to four times higher than EPDM roofing systems. This is a very popular choice for going "green." It's even available in white, grey, and black. Using the white can reduce the "heat island effect" and solar heat gain in the building.

TPO can be installed to almost any scale with some of the world's largest building utilizing TPO roofing systems. Price-wise, it's often one of the most economical options for a large low-slope roofing are. They're easy to repair, as well, you just need to cut out the effected area and weld a new piece in it's place.

So you have to do the comparison on your own to figure out what works best for you, depending one what exactly it is you're looking for. Those are some of the positives and negatives of both types of roofing so decide for yourself what works best for you.