TPO: a History Lesson

TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) roof membranes are a popular choice in the commercial roofing industry for their durability, energy efficiency, and affordability. But have you ever wondered about the history and evolution of this widely used roofing material? In this article, we will delve into the history of TPO roof membranes and how they came to be one of the most popular roofing materials in the world.

The first thermoplastic roofing membranes were introduced in the late 1970s and early 1980s as an alternative to traditional built-up roofing systems. These early thermoplastic roofing membranes were made of PVC (polyvinyl chloride), which was a relatively new material at the time. The PVC roofing membranes were known for their strength, flexibility, and weather resistance, but they had a few downsides. They were somewhat difficult to install, and the materials used to manufacture them were considered toxic and posed a risk to the environment and the installers. 

In the 1990s, the roofing industry was introduced to TPO roof membranes. TPO roofing membranes were developed as a more environmentally friendly alternative to PVC roofing membranes. They are made of a blend of polyethylene and polypropylene, which are both non-toxic materials that are easily recyclable. The TPO roofing membrane is flexible and some believe it is easier to install than PVC roofing membranes, making it a practical option for commercial roofing projectsnat at a lower cost. The standard that governs the manufacturing of TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) roofing membranes is ASTM D6878. This standard sets the specifications for the composition, physical properties, and performance of TPO roofing membranes. The standard covers the requirements for raw materials, testing, labeling, and packaging of TPO roofing membranes. It is used by manufacturers, designers, and contractors to ensure that TPO roofing membranes meet minimum performance requirements and to ensure consistency and quality in the manufacturing process. ASTM D6878 is widely recognized as the industry standard for TPO roofing membranes and is used as a reference for both manufacturers and specifiers in the roofing industry.

The popularity of TPO roofing membranes has grown rapidly since their introduction in the 1990s. Today, TPO roofing membranes are widely used in commercial and industrial roofing projects all over the world. They are known for their durability, energy efficiency, and affordability, making them a popular choice for any commercial roofing project.

TPO roofing membranes have come a long way since their inception in the 1990s. Today, they are by far the most widely utilized single ply membranes in the United States. Their durability, energy efficiency, and affordability make them widely specified choice for a commercial roofing project, and their environmentally friendly properties make them an excellent choice for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint. 

TPO membranes are subject to chalking, where the surface thermoplastic breaks down due to weather exposure and granulates the surface. These granulated particles

wash away with rain and wind, which causes TPO to lose thickness over time. When the thermoplastic above the reinforcing scrim wears away, the membrane can be subject to catastrophic failure. This occurs at a rate of between 1 to 2 mills per year. When this occurs, the application of a compatible roof coating can restore it's waterproofing properties and extend the life of the TPO. The Roof Coaters Guild of America is committed to training contractors to repair and restore TPO roofs properly, providing an invaluable service to building owners all over the country.