TPO vs. PVC Roofing: Which is Right for You?
When it comes to roofing materials, there are a variety of options available. Two popular choices are thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). It’s important to understand the benefits and drawbacks of each material before deciding which one is best for your needs.
Cost & Benefits
The cost of TPO roofing is generally lower than that of PVC roofing due to its lower material costs. However, both types of roofing require professional installation, which will come with a separate fee. Additionally, both are highly durable and offer excellent UV protection for your business.
PVC is often considered the superior choice when it comes to durability because it’s more rigid than TPO and can stand up better to strong winds or heavy rains. It can also handle temperature extremes better than TPO, making it ideal for areas with harsh climates or high humidity levels.
In terms of longevity, both materials will last 20 to 25 years with proper maintenance. The main difference between the two is that PVC requires less maintenance because it’s more resistant to dirt buildup, algae growth, cracking, splitting and other wear-and-tear damage over time.
Quality & Aesthetics
TPO roofing is usually white in color and offers excellent energy efficiency due to its reflective properties. This means that your building will stay cooler in warmer climates by reflecting sunlight away from the surface rather than absorbing it like darker-colored roofs do. On the other hand, PVC roofing has a much wider range of colors available so you can customize the look of your building more easily than you could with TPO.
In terms of quality, both roofing types are made from superior materials. Additionally, both types are relatively lightweight compared to traditional shingle roofs, so they won’t put unnecessary stress on your building’s structure.
Environmental Impact
Both TPO and PVC roofing are considered to be environmentally friendly materials. They both have low VOC (volatile organic compound) emissions, meaning they won’t release harmful air pollutants that can contribute to smog. Additionally, because they’re lightweight, they require less energy to install, which helps to reduce your overall carbon footprint.
In conclusion, there are pros and cons associated with each type of roofing material—thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). While TPO offers an economical option with good energy-efficient properties thanks to its white coloration, PVC has a wider range of colors available as well as higher durability against extreme temperatures and weather conditions such as wind or rainstorms, making it a better choice for areas prone to these issues. Ultimately, you’ll want to take all these factors into consideration when choosing which type of roofing material is best for your project needs!
Ready to discuss roofing options for your commercial property? Contact our roofing experts to schedule a roof evaluation and consultation today.
