Copyright 2020 Elite Roofing | 5475 Peoria St., Unit 4-106, Denver, CO 80239 | All Rights Reserved | Powered by Elevation Marketing
For anyone who’s worked with commercial roofing, either as a roofer or business owner, TPO roofing is a familiar sight. This single-ply roofing material has steadily grown in popularity ever since it first hit the market. Nowadays, you’ll see it on many new commercial roofs! But what is TPO roofing, exactly? And why is it so popular? At Elite Roofing, TPO is one of several commercial roofing materials we like to work with. So in today’s blog post, we’re breaking down this popular single-ply material—and why it might be the right commercial roofing solution for you!
Let’s start right from the beginning: What is TPO roofing, really? Well, TPO stands for thermoplastic polyolefin, and with a name like that you can see right away why everyone just says “TPO.” The name also lets you know that TPO is a synthetic material. Indeed, TPO consists of a blended membrane (typically made of materials like polypropylene and ethylene-propylene rubber) with a reinforcing scrim added for stability. In other words, it’s a specialized roofing membrane made of different synthetic materials. The membrane is manufactured and sold in sheets that are typically 10, 12, or 20 feet wide.
TPO is typically quick to install for an experienced commercial roofing company. First, the roofer prepares the substrate (that is, the surface where the TPO will be installed). This often involves cleaning the substrate thoroughly to ensure adhesion. Then, the roofer installs some form of insulation. The TPO membrane itself is unrolled and affixed, either using a specialized adhesive or some form of mechanical fastener. Then finally, the roofer head-welds the seams between the strips of TPO to form a watertight seal. While TPO is quick to install, that doesn’t mean it’s easy. Make sure your chosen roofer is well-versed in the potential pitfalls of TPO roofing installation before they start!
Now that you know the essentials of what TPO is and how it’s installed, you might be wondering: why is this material so popular? As it happens, there are several reasons for TPO’s popularity, including:
TPO can be a great option for business owners in search of a durable yet affordable commercial roof material. The success of a TPO roof starts with proper installation, however—and that’s where the experts at Elite Roofing come in! Our commercial roofing team has helped many business owners and property managers with reliable and professional TPO installation. In addition to installation, we also provide a variety of other commercial roofing services. That means Elite Roofing can be your partner for commercial roof repairs, maintenance, and more throughout your roof’s lifespan. If you’re in need of a TPO roof installation or have questions about our other commercial roofing services, contact us today!
Image credit: Versico Roofing Systems
When it comes to commercial roofing, flat roof systems tend to be highly favored. It’s easy to see why: Commercial flat roofing systems are efficient, often quick to install, and retain the maximum amount of interior space compared to roofs with more of a slope. There is also a wide variety of flat roofs to choose from, giving business owners the benefit of choice. But which kind of flat roof is right for your needs? Let’s break down the major benefits of the most common types of commercial flat roofing.
Perhaps the most commonly installed form of commercial flat roofing is single-ply membrane. As the name implies, this form of roofing involves covering a roof with a single layer of durable membrane material. There are several kinds of materials used as a membrane in single-ply flat roofing systems. Here at Elite Roofing, we use EPDM (a synthetic rubber) and TPO (a membrane made from a blend of materials).
Both EPDM and TPO offer excellent benefits in terms of lower costs compared to other materials. Further, membrane roofing is fairly simple to install while being very lightweight, meaning it can be installed on most existing roof decks without an issue. The main drawback of membrane roofing is in terms of durability and water resistance. Seams can be a vulnerable point on your roof, membrane materials can shrink over time, and poor installation can lead to issues like tenting in high winds. Still, when installed by an experienced, professional roofer, these roofs stand up very well and are relatively easy to repair down the line.
While not only used in commercial flat roofing applications, metal is a highly durable and reliable option for commercial building owners. In flat roofing, metal is generally installed in panels held in place by some form of fastener. Standing seam metal roofs are particularly favorable, as key roof fasteners are covered in these systems.
Metal roofs offer supreme durability compared to other commercial flat roofing options. All but impervious to impact and wind damage, the only real enemy is rust, which can be prevented by using the right type of metal or with anti-corrosive coatings. So why aren’t all commercial roofs made of metal? Typically, cost is the biggest obstacle. While a metal roof is a solid long-term investment, even cheaper options such as aluminum tend to cost more upfront than membrane roofs.
Finally, while membrane roofing is commonly installed today, you might see more built-up roofing on flat roofs in your area. That’s because BUR was long the go-to commercial flat roofing system. So what is BUR, exactly? Well, it’s a form of roofing that’s made of asphalt paper and tar. During the installation process, alternating layers of each material are built up (hence the name) to form a protective, watertight surface.
The main benefit of BUR roofing is its durability. As with metal, BUR roofs stand up very well to impact damage and wind, while being generally more watertight than a membrane roof. However, BUR roofing has fallen out of favor over the years for many reasons. For one, it’s quite heavy, meaning a roof may need to be reinforced before a BUR roof can be installed. Further, it’s not a very environmentally friendly material, it takes time to install, and in the event that leaks do occur, they can be very difficult to repair.
Ultimately, the right commercial roofing system for your needs depends on your situation. In addition to durability, longevity, and cost, commercial flat roofing systems also differ in terms of energy efficiency, which may be of particular importance for your business. If you’re in need of a new commercial roof but you’re not sure which option is right for you, the commercial roofing experts at Elite Roofing can help! We’ve installed numerous high-quality flat roofing systems throughout Denver. We work with a variety of materials, including TPO, EPDM, and metal roofing, so we have the expertise necessary to help you make the right roofing decision. Contact us today for a consultation!
If you’re in the market for a commercial roof, you’re likely comparing EPDM vs. TPO. EPDM is a synthetic rubber material, while TPO is a synthetic membrane made with a blend of rubber and fillers such as fiberglass and carbon fiber. Both are widely used in commercial roofing applications due to their affordability and durability. At Elite Roofing, we’ve installed countless roofs made from each of these single-ply roofing materials. But which is right for you? First, it’s important to understand how they differ, and the strengths and weaknesses of each.
While EPDM and TPO may seem similar, and are used in similar situations, these synthetic single-ply roofing materials are actually quite different. EPDM is made of synthetic rubber, is typically dark in color, and is typically installed using adhesives. TPO, on the other hand, is a membrane made from a blend of materials. TPO is often white, which allows these roofs to reflect heat, and these roofing systems are heat-welded. Let’s take a closer look at each.
Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) roofing systems are made of a synthetic rubber membrane. These advanced roofing systems come with UV weather protection, and they’re particularly resistant to damage due to hail storms, as hail tends to bounce right off. Additionally, EPDM is considered sustainable as it produces much lower amounts of acid rain and smog than other materials on the market today. Finally, EPDM seams are sealed using either specially engineered adhesive or glue. The flexibility of this roofing product makes EPDM extremely easy to repair vs. TPO, so our Elite Roofing team can maintain EPDM commercial roofs for decades.
TPO stands for Thermo-Plastic Olephine. These roofing systems are made using the same synthetic rubber material used in EPDM roofs, in combination with materials such as carbon fiber, talc, and fiberglass. These incredibly durable commercial roofs are another great option for property owners looking to invest in a roofing system that will serve them for years to come. TPO is resistant to punctures and typically light in color. Most importantly, the strong, heat-welded seams on these roofs make TPO quite resistant to leaks when compared vs. EPDM. However, TPO can be slightly more difficult to repair than EPDM.
When considering the EPDM vs. TPO question, you’ll find that both offer industry-leading strength and longevity. EPDM offers advantages such as better protection against hail damage and easier repairs and maintenance. On the other hand, TPO is more resistant to water, strong against punctures, and slightly more energy efficient in summer. TPO can also be cheaper than EPDM. Still, only an experienced Colorado commercial roofing specialist can help you determine which is ideal for your needs. Our experts at Elite Roofing can help you weigh your options.
As a local Denver roofing company, we are proud to serve area property owners here at Elite Roofing. Whether you’re searching for a commercial roofing company to replace or repair your EPDM or TPO roof, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Ready to discuss your needs? Contact us today to schedule your free, no-obligation inspection and discover what we mean when we say, “roofing done right!”
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(Updated: June 2020)
When it comes to commercial roofing solutions, most businesses opt for low slope roofing options to fit their needs. Why? For several reasons: low slope roofs tend to be cheaper to install, maximizes square footage, and are generally more practical than steeper roofs typically seen in residential buildings. What many folks don’t realize, however, is that there are several options when it comes to low slope roofing materials. At Elite Roofing, our team has installed hundreds of low slope roofs throughout Colorado, gaining firsthand experience with the various materials involved in these applications. In today’s post, we’re going to dive into the different options available for use in these practical roofing systems.
In terms of precise specifications, a roof is considered low slope if its slope is less than or equal to 3:12 – that is, if it rises three inches or less for every foot of length, which is an angle of 14 degrees. Confusingly enough, these roofs are also sometimes referred to as flat roofs. But don’t be fooled: all roofs must have at least some slope to allow water to drain, and the minimum slope for a roof is generally 2%.
One major reason low slope roofs are favored for commercial use is cost efficiency. Low slope roofs tend to require less roofing material to cover a given area, and they can be installed more quickly than steeper roofs. In addition, a steeper roof simply isn’t possible for many large commercial buildings. Due to the usual width of such buildings, the peak would need to be extremely tall. Finally, low slope roofs maximize interior space (which is useful for storage) and allow for necessities such as heating and cooling equipment to be installed on top of them.
There are surprisingly many materials that can be used in low slope roofing projects. Below, we’ll discuss three of the most commonly used materials: PVC, EPDM, and TPO.
For years, PVC membrane was the most popular low slope roofing option out there. This is a single-layer thermoplastic membrane, and pieces of this material are rolled out and heat-welded to form a watertight seal. It tends to be quite durable and long-lasting, but PVC membrane is often quite costly compared to other materials. While other materials have since caught up to it in terms of popularity, PVC is still a good option for commercial roofing.
Also referred to as a rubber roof, EPDM is a more cost-friendly low slope option in terms of commercial roofing. These systems last quite long, and while the seams are glued together (rather than heat-sealed), the loss in terms of water resistance is made up for by the ease and low cost of repairs for EPDM roofs. Along with PVC, this tends to be a highly popular low slope roofing material.
The newest material among the these popular single-layer options is TPO, which was conceived as a material that would balance the durability of PVC with the cost-effectiveness of EPDM. In general, it achieves this quite nicely, with seams that are far more watertight than those found in EPDM roofs at a much lower cost than a PVC membrane. An additional benefit of TPO roofing is its energy efficiency. The color of a roof matters when it comes to reflecting summer heat, and TPO is more readily available in light colors than its counterparts – enabling business owners to save on summer cooling costs.
At Elite Roofing, our business cares about yours – and our team has installed hundreds of commercial low slope roofs across Colorado over the years. We offer a wide range of roofing materials, including low slope roofing options such as EPDM and TPO, and our experienced team of roofers has your business covered. If you’re still not sure which is the right low slope roofing option for you, contact us today! We’re happy to share our expertise and help you make you make the best roofing decision for your business.
Hiring a commercial roofing contractor is a major decision, a decision that will impact you now and for years to come. If you’re having trouble selecting among the commercial contractors in your area, we encourage you to ask these 5 critical questions.
1) Are you licensed and insured? While this may seem obvious, it’s not uncommon for property owners to forget to ask. Do not simply assume the commercial roofing contractors you contact are licensed and insured, do your homework and ask for proof. This will protect your investment and ensure you’re selecting a dependable company.
When planning for a commercial roofing project, most property owners must first establish a budget and gain approval for the expenditure. Be sure to ask the roofing contractors you’re considering if they can assist you in establishing a budget. This is also a great way to assess their level customer service and to gain an insight into what it will be like to work together.
Not all roof damage warrants a full replacement. Be sure to ask each contractor you contact if they are willing to assess the current state of your roof and determine your best course of action. If for example, a small repair can add several years to the lifespan of your roof, and you only intend to own the property for a short time, a repair is probably your best route. However, if a repair will only delay a full replacement for a short period of time and you plan to hold onto the property, your total cost of ownership on a new roof is typically lower. Be sure to discuss this with your roofing professional.
Asking for references is another simple yet critical step that many property owners fail to complete. Any reputable commercial roofing contractor will be able to provide several references. In addition, check out their online reviews. What are past customers saying online? Does their online reputation align with the feedback you have received from the references they provided?
Be sure to find out from the very beginning how much time you should allow for your project to be completed. Weather delays can impact installation, but an experienced roofing company will account for this when providing a projected timeline.
At Elite Roofing, we are proud to serve properties owners in the Denver metro and throughout Colorado. Working with only the best materials on the market, and offering unparalleled customer support, we’ve earned a reputation over the years as Denver’s top commercial roofing contractors. Ready to discuss a commercial roof repair or replacement? Contact us today to schedule your free, no-obligation inspection and discover what we mean when we say, ‘roofing done right!’
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As one of the most trusted commercial roofing companies in Denver, we often hear from property owners interested in learning about single ply and other types of commercial roofing systems. We are always pleased to have the opportunity to help property owner explore their options and select a solution that meets their needs as well as their budget. If you’re researching commercial roofing companies in Denver, we encourage you to take note of today’s post. Let’s explore the 5 thinks you need to know about single ply commercial roofing systems.
Single ply roofing systems are made of compound plastic-derived materials. The flexibility of these single ply sheets makes them ideal for roofing flat or low-slope roofs. If you are interested in learning more about how single ply commercial roofing can protect your property for years to come, we encourage you to contact us today!
There are 3 main types of single ply commercial roofing systems:
TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin)
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
Each of the three kinds of single ply commercial roofing systems come with benefits and drawbacks. Allow one of our roofing experts to help you weigh your options and determine which is your best option.
TPO is the fastest-growing single ply commercial roofing system in the United States. First introduced in the early 1990’s the TPO membrane roofing system is growing in popularity year over year. Because TPO has been available for a relatively short period of time, manufacturers are still experimenting with chemical formulations to ensure optimal longevity. If you’re looking for a single ply commercial roof that is economical and easy to install, look no further than TPO!
Single-ply membranes are categorized into two distinct groups: thermosets and thermoplastics. Thermosets are single ply roofing materials, compounded from rubber, that can’t be hot-air welded. They instead must be adhered with tape or a contact cement. Thermoplastics are made from plastic polymer which softens under heat and solidifies when cool. There are benefits to thermosets and thermoplastics. If you’re ready to determine which is best for your needs and your budget, we encourage you to contact us today.
While there are many benefits of investing in a single-ply commercial roofing system, we have identified a handful of our favorites:
At Elite Roofing, we have been proudly serving Denver property owners for more than a decade. Offering top-of-the-line residential and commercial roofing systems, our team of highly skilled and experienced roofing experts is on hand to tackle all of your roofing needs. Whether you’re interested in learning about a commercial roof repair or replacement, we are here to serve. Schedule your free, no-obligation roofing inspection today and discover why we are the leader in Denver commercial roofing companies!
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At Elite Roofing, we have been proudly offering leading edge commercial roofing services for more than a decade. Over the past ten years, we have helped property owners throughout the state and beyond replace, repair and maintain top of the line commercial roofing systems. As exclusive partners of the industry’s leading roofing suppliers, we are able to deliver the very best in commercial roofing services, at prices our competition simply cannot beat. If you are looking to hire the best in commercial roofers, look no further! At Elite Roofing, we proudly offer commercial roofing services throughout the state. Though we do not solely focus on specific cities or regions, we typically working in the following zip codes.
Denver County: 80014, 80019, 80022, 80110, 80123, 80201-80212, 80216-80224, 80227, 80230, 80231, 80235-80239, 80243, 80244, 80246-80252, 80256, 80257, 80259, 80261-80266, 80271, 80273, 80274, 80281, 80290, 80291, 80293-80295, 80299, 80330, 80640, 80642.
Adams County: 80011, 80024, 80030, 80031, 80035-80037, 80040, 80042, 80045, 80102, 80136, 80137, 80229, 80233, 80234, 80241, 80260, 80601, 80602, 80614, 80640.
Arapahoe County:80018, 80017, 80014, 80010, 80016, 80012, 80013, 80103, 80121, 80122, 80112, 80015, 80111, 80105, 80247, 80113, 80110, 80120.
Douglas County: 80108, 80109, 80104, 80116, 80129, 80130, 80126, 80118, 80124, 80131, 80134, 80138, 80125, 80135.
Jefferson County: 80002-80005, 80007, 80401, 80419, 80128, 80232, 80215, 80214, 80226-80228, 80021, 80033, 80465.
Boulder County: 80310, 80301, 80302-80305, 80516, 80026, 80503, 80501, 80027, 80540, 80025.
Weld County: 80610, 80603, 80514, 80615, 80620, 80520, 80621, 80530, 80624, 80631, 80634, 80504, 80542, 80650, 80546, 80645, 80644, 80543, 80550.
Larimer County: 80512, 80513, 80511, 80517, 80526, 80528, 80524, 80521, 80525, 80535, 80537, 80538, 80547, 80549.
Elbert County: 80107, 80117, 80106.
EL Paso County: 80840, 80908, 80808, 80809, 80915, 80906, 80909, 80920, 80916, 80918, 80927, 80926, 80951, 80924, 80939, 80938, 80929, 80914, 80930, 80928, 80925, 80903, 80905, 80921, 80904, 80922, 80907, 80919, 80923, 80910, 80917, 80106, 80913, 80902, 80817, 80819, 80829, 80831.
If you don’t see your zip code listed, don’t hesitate to give us a call! We are happy to travel throughout the state.
If you are seeking an experienced commercial roofing company, anywhere in Colorado, contact us today! Schedule your complimentary, no-obligation roofing inspection and discover why discerning property owners trust us with all of their commercial roofing needs. One of our highly-skilled and knowledgeable roofing inspectors will complete a thorough assessment of the health of your roofing system. Together we will help you make an informed decision about the replacement or repair of your roof. We may even find that a repair or replacement is not in order for a few years. Contact us and get answers to your questions today! Let’s get started.
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Copyright 2020 Elite Roofing | 5475 Peoria St., Unit 4-106, Denver, CO 80239 | All Rights Reserved | Powered by Elevation Marketing