No matter the type, commercial roofing systems are too expensive to ignore. That’s why it’s essential to learn how to prolong the life expectancy of your industrial or commercial roof. So, here are TPO maintenance tips and advice for those with a thermoplastic polyolefin roof.
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How to Maintain a Thermoplastic Polyolefin Roofing System
You already know that neglecting a TPO roof can lead to big problems, including structural damage. So, here are the steps for maintaining this popular single-ply roofing membrane.
Make sure the roof drains properly.
Drainage problems are common on flat roof systems. It’s a simple matter of physics: flat roofs don’t drain as well as pitched roofs. The low pitch makes it easy for water to pool on the surface and for dirt to accumulate. Pooled water can also break down the roofing material, which leads to destructive leaks.
So, gutter and drainage system maintenance is an essential part of roof maintenance.
Remove debris from the roof surface.
Even though TPO membranes are strong, TPO is still a single-ply roofing system that must be protected from puncture or tears. That’s why removing overhanging trees is crucial so that branches don’t litter your roof deck.
To maintain your TPO system, you should periodically look for and remove debris from the roof surface.
Clean your TPO roof according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
TPO roofs require regular cleaning. It’s important to remove dirt, mold, and algae from the surface of low-slope roofs for two reasons.
Dirt and debris on the roof surface may break down the membrane and cause damage.
Also, light-colored TPO roofs reflect UV rays, making the building more energy efficient during the summer. If the white surface is covered with dirt, you will harm your building’s energy efficiency – AND decrease the lifespan of your roof.
Begin by protecting low curbs, base flashing, and other areas where the pressured water could infiltrate. Also, consider covering the vegetation around the building, as some cleaning solutions may harm trees and bushes.
Most manufacturers and installers recommend using a low-pressure power washer and mild cleaning solution to clean a TPO rooftop. You may also need a floor broom or a soft-bristle push broom. Take special care to rinse the cleaning solution from the roof and look for and repair any incidental damage.
Schedule regular, professional inspections with a roofing contractor.
Yes, there are things that your maintenance crews can do to maintain your TPO roof. However, it’s also essential that a certified roofing contractor periodically visits to inspect the condition of the roof membrane.
Besides looking for signs of ponding water or inadequate drains, a roof inspector will check for signs of deterioration in sealants and around coping joints, coping ends, and skylights. Even small holes and seemingly minor cracks in joints and seams can lead to severe damage, so they will be flagged for repair.
Schedule Your TPO Roof Maintenance and Inspection with AAA Roofing
AAA Roofing is the leading commercial roofer in the Western U.S. We are a full-service company and can be relied on for TPO roofing maintenance and inspection. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and inspection.
What You Need to Know About TPO Maintenance
- Your low-slope roof must have proper drainage.
- Periodically walk the roof surface to remove debris from your structure.
- Clean the TPO roofing material according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
- Schedule periodic maintenance and inspections with a trusted roofing contractor.