If you are in the market for a new roof, you may wonder which type of roofing is better, TPO or PVC? Both types of roofing have pros and cons, so it cannot be easy to decide which one is right for your home. In this blog post, we will compare and contrast TPO and PVC roofing and help you decide which one is best for your needs.
Composition of TPO and PVC
Before looking at a completed TPO or PVC installation, you may think that TPO & PVC materials look identical. Let’s know what the two are very different in composition.
TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin)
TPO is a single-ply roofing system composed of two materials: polypropylene and ethylene-propylene rubber. TPO has two layers (polypropylene and ethylene-propylene rubber) laminated with heat and pressure. The following are used in the production of TPO plies:
• Talc
• Fiberglass
• Color pigments
• Ultra-violet light inhibitors
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
PVC is also a single-ply roofing system, but it is composed of only one material: polyvinyl chloride. PVC is made by combining chlorine and ethylene to create a polymer that is then extruded into a film. Included in the manufacturing of PVC plies are:
- Color pigments
- Ultra-violet light inhibitors
- Plasticizers (for plasticity and flexibility)
- Fiberglass or polyester reinforcement
- Biocides (help deter mold, bacteria, algae, rodents, and insects)
PVC and TPO Roof Differences
TPO and PVC roofs are single-ply systems but are composed of different materials. TPO is a mixture of polypropylene and ethylene-propylene rubber, while PVC is made from polyvinyl chloride. PVC roofs usually have a white or light gray color, while TPO roofs can be white, tan, or black. Both types of roofing can be heat-welded to create a seamless system impervious to water and wind damage. However, there are some critical differences between these two types of roofing.
Installation
TPO roofs are typically installed using either fully adhered or mechanically attached methods, while PVC roofs are almost always installed using the fully adhered method. As a result, TPO roofs can be installed faster and with less labor, saving you money.
Flexibility
TPO roofs are more flexible than PVC roofs, making them less likely to crack or break in extreme weather conditions. As a result, it makes them a good choice for areas that experience high winds or severe storms.
Cost
PVC roofs are typically more expensive than TPO roofs, but the price difference will vary depending on the products used and the roof size. However, PVC roofs usually last longer than TPO roofs, so they may be a good investment if you plan on staying in your home for many years.
PVC vs TPO – Performance Comparison
Concerning performance, there are a few key areas where PVC and TPO roofs differ. For example, they compare flexibility, resistance to weather damage, and cost.
If you’re still unsure which type of roof is right for your home, contact a local roofing contractor to get more information. They can help you compare the costs and benefits of each option to find the best solution for your needs.
Resistance to Weather Damage
Both TPO and PVC roofs are resistant to damage from UV rays, but TPO is more resistant to punctures and tears. As a result, it makes it a good choice for areas that experience high winds or hail storms.
Conclusion
If you are looking for an affordable roofing solution, then PVC roofing will be the best. However, if you want to invest in a longer-lasting and more sustainable product, TPO roofing is a better option. Now, it is up to you to decide what roofing material you need for your home. TPO and PVC have pros and cons, so weigh all the factors before deciding. If you have any questions, contact us for more information or advice. We would be happy to help you.
