TPO roofing is popular in commercial roofing applications, with a singly-ply membrane of thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) providing energy savings. Commonly a bright white membrane, TPO roofing provides reflective properties to resist damage from ultraviolet rays, ozone, and chemical exposure. TPO roofing is installed by mechanical fastening or chemical industrial adhesives, to insulate and protect commercial facilities. A popular method of installation is to use metal plates and pucks treated with two-stage TPO adhesive that provides a durable and secure bond without penetration.
TPO Roofing Installation
Commercial Roofing Insulation
Installation of a commercial TPO roofing single ply membrane involves cleaning or removing the existing roof, and installing insulation. There are a few different options for commercial roofing insulation such as Polyisocyanurate (Polyiso) and Expanded Polystyrene (EPS). Polyiso may be a bit more costly but delivers a higher R-value rating over EPS, which is a good choice for wall and floor insulation as EPS does not retain water over time.
According to Energy Saver, the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) consumer resource, R-Value refers to the insulative material’s thermal resistance to conductive heat flow. This thermal resistance is the R-value which varies depending on the thickness and density of insulation. The higher the R-value, the more insulating effectiveness.
Extruded Polystyrene (XPS) is another option for insulation and is commonly defined by a green, blue or pink color. XPS falls in between Polyiso and EPS in terms of cost and performance. You should always speak with a local insulation contractor in your area to help determine the best material for your climate and buildings.
Installing the TPO Membrane
The TPO single ply roofing membrane is attached to the roofing cover board with mechanical fasteners or TPO bonding adhesive. Induction weld roofing plates and pucks pretreated with two-stage industrial adhesive allows for easy installation with a non-penetrating mechanical attachment.
Hot Weld Seams Together
TPO membranes are typically manufactured in sheets in 10, 12 or 20 feet widths, that are delivered in rolls ready for installation. After installation, the roofing contractor will then use a hot air gun or hot welding equipment to secure the seams together.
TPO Adhesive by UNICHEM
uniBOND® TPO Adhesive by UNICHEM improves TPO roofing installations with a durable and reliable industrial adhesive that activates within a wide ambient temperature range from 0° to 120°F in less than 10 seconds. uniBOND® TPO adhesive is available in a single stage or two-stage system and provides many benefits for TPO installations such as reliable induction heat bonding with quick and easy installation requiring fewer fasteners and plates per square.
UNICHEM is an industry leading global supplier of high-performance paints, coatings and adhesives that provide solutions to a wide range of industries and applications. We offer more than 50 years of experience and a dedicated team with in-depth knowledge of resin science and polymer chemistry as well as market segment specializations, dedicated to improving your products and processes. Contact us to learn more about our industrial adhesive product solutions including uniBOND® TPO roofing adhesive.