The traditional commercial roof is a black, rubber EPDM roof. But now there are widely available roof alternatives such as PVC, TPO, and more. TPO commercial roofs have only been commercially available since the early 1990s, and they have the fastest-growing demand when it comes time for property owners to invest in a new roof.
What is TPO Roofing?
TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) roofing is a single-ply membrane commonly used for flat and low-slope commercial roofs. It’s made up of three layers: a TPO polymer base, a polyester-reinforced scrim, and a TPO top layer. This roofing material is known for its energy efficiency, heat-reflective surface, and strong resistance to weather, UV rays, and chemicals. TPO has become one of the fastest-growing commercial roofing systems in the U.S., especially popular in climates like Missouri’s, where durability and energy savings are top priorities.
Benefits of TPO Roofing
1. Exceptional Flexibility & Durability
Missouri’s climate is unpredictable, with hot, humid summers and freezing winters. TPO membrane roofs are built to adapt, expanding and contracting with building movement without cracking, tearing, or weakening under stress.
In addition to structural flexibility, TPO roofs resist:
- UV radiation
- Dirt and debris buildup
- Bacteria, algae, and mold growth
- Chemical and ozone exposure
This makes TPO a long-lasting, high-performance solution for protecting your commercial building year-round.
2. Compatible with a Variety of Insulation Types
TPO roofing systems work seamlessly with common insulation options like polyiso, EPS, and XPS. This gives Missouri property owners greater flexibility when balancing energy efficiency goals with project budgets and R-value requirements.
3. Superior Leak Protection with Welded Seams
TPO seams are heat-welded using hot air, creating a watertight bond that is 3–4 times stronger than adhesive or taped seams found in EPDM systems. These welded seams enhance durability, reduce the risk of leaks, and make future repairs easier and more effective.
4. Energy Efficiency & Eco-Friendliness
TPO’s white or light gray surface reflects sunlight instead of absorbing it, helping to lower cooling costs during Missouri’s hot summers. This “cool roof” technology reduces HVAC strain and improves indoor comfort.
TPO roofing material is also a sustainable:
- Contains no chlorine or hazardous chemicals
- 100% recyclable at the end of its lifespan
- Contributes to a greener footprint and potential LEED points
Thinking about adding solar? TPO membranes are solar-ready. Their smooth, reflective surface enhances solar efficiency, and the system easily accommodates solar racking without compromising waterproofing.
6. Fast Installation & Minimal Business Disruption
Time is money—especially when roofing projects interfere with operations. TPO roofing is lightweight and comes in wide rolls, allowing for fast TPO roofing installation and fewer seams. It can be mechanically attached, fully adhered, or ballasted depending on your building’s structure and schedule.
This reduces labor costs and minimizes downtime for Missouri businesses.
7. Class A Fire-Rated Options Available
Safety is always a top concern. Many TPO systems are available with a Class A fire rating, the highest rating for fire resistance. This is especially valuable for commercial buildings located near wooded areas or where building codes require enhanced fire protection.
8. Low Maintenance & Easy Cleaning
TPO’s slick, non-porous surface resists dirt, mold, algae, and staining, making it easier to clean and maintain than built-up roofing (BUR) or tar-and-gravel systems. Plus, it doesn’t require frequent recoating or surface treatments, which reduces long-term maintenance costs.
9. Cost-Effective Over the Long Term
While TPO roofing cost may not be the absolute cheapest roofing option upfront, it provides exceptional value through lower energy bills, minimal maintenance, and a long service life. Combined with ease of installation and repair, it’s a smart long-term investment for Missouri commercial property owners.
Is TPO Roofing Right for Your Building?
TPO may be newer than some traditional systems, but it’s been installed on millions of square feet of commercial roofing across the U.S. and for good reason. At Midwest Roofing, we’ve helped businesses throughout Missouri—from Columbia to Springfield—choose and install TPO roofs that meet their performance, budget, and sustainability needs.
Schedule a free consultation today to learn more about TPO roofing for your commercial property.