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28 Oct TPO Roll Roofing vs Modified Bitumen

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Asphalt Based Systems Pros and Cons. When you invest in a new roofing system, you want to know you’re getting the best solution for your money. When you’re in the market for a flat roofing system, your choices will boil down to a few key options that offer the best balance in terms of performance and cost.

Modified bitumen and singly ply (TPO) roofing are the go-to options for commercial buildings of all shapes and sizes. Each of these roofing systems has a wide range of benefits for any structure, and learning about them could help you make the best decision for your new roofing upgrade in Miami, FL.

Modified Bitumen Roofing

Modified bitumen roofing systems have been among the top choices for flat-roofed buildings since their invention in the 1960s. This type of roofing is a modified form of built-up roofing (BUR) and utilizes cap sheets or polymer layers to reinforce the layers that make up your roof.

These layers are used on top of several layers of specialized roofing felt that contain asphalt. The layers are embedded into a layer of bitumen. Once the layers are overlapped, they become a solid membrane. The polymer layer or cap sheet is placed over this for even more protection by providing more elasticity and flexibility for roofs when temperatures drop.

This type of roofing has a wide range of benefits, which is why it’s remained such a popular option over the years. Some of these include:

    • Unbeatable versatility
    • Great for repairing existing bitumen roofing systems
    • Builds on the highly durable nature and other benefits of BURs
    • Easy to find a roofing team well-versed in installing this roofing type
    • A long-lasting option

Of course, no roofing system is without its drawbacks. You’ll need to consider these as well to ensure you’re getting the best fit for your building and your budget. Some cons of modified bitumen roofing include:

    • Higher labor costs than other types of roofing because of layer minimums
    • Roofing requires drainage
    • The installation team must be trained and skilled to achieve the proper results.
    • The cost of materials can fluctuate, especially petroleum.

This is an excellent option for a new business roofing system in south Florida. Still, it’s imperative to examine all aspects of the materials, labor, and results before making your final decision.

TPO Roll Roofing

As single-ply roofing, TPO roll roofing is much simpler than modified bitumen roofing on the surface.

These roofs are a Thermoplastic Olefin membrane and are crafted from a range of sturdy polymers that form together in a single sheet rather than a series of layers like most roofing systems. Instead of presenting itself as hard plastic as many thermoplastics do, TPO roofing materials are more rubber-like, allowing them to be rolled and transported for roofing purposes so easily and promoting a sturdier, more variable performance as a roofing system.

They are relatively new to the modern roofing market. Still, even so, they have been making an impressive name for themselves in recent years and have become some of the most popular roofs for commercial buildings worldwide.

The growing reputation of TPO roll roofing can be attributed to the many benefits that these roofing systems have to offer, some of which include:

    • Fewer materials and labor required for the job
    • Tougher and more flexible than most other types of roofs
    • White color reflects light and keeps Miami buildings cooler and more efficient
    • Welded seams are easier to clean than adhesive seams on other roofs
    • Re-covering a roof is easy and straightforward with the right team

These benefits highlight the many strengths of TPO roll roofing, but it is, of course, imperative to consider the shortcomings of this option as well. Some cons associated with selecting a single-ply TPO roof for your building include:

    • The membrane is rigid and does not relax well
    • The membrane is likely to fade or change color over time
    • They may not be as resistant to punctures as some asphalt systems

All in all, this roofing system is an excellent roofing option for Miami businesses due to its balance of durability and efficiency. However, continue to consider the drawbacks of this roofing as well before making your final decision.

Modified Bitumen vs TPO Roll Roofing

Both of these roofing systems have much to offer modern buildings, but which one has the most to offer your business? To make your final choice, consider a few key points:

    • Modified bitumen roofing is a tried and true option that’s been in use since the 1960s but now makes up only 30 percent of new roofing installations on buildings.
    • TPO roll roofing is newer to the market but is one of the most in-demand products available and is installed on more buildings every year
    • Modified bitumen roofs may cost more in terms of labor and materials, but the results are undeniably useful.
    • TPO roll roofing is generally less expensive to purchase and install but does not have the long-lasting appearance that modified bitumen roofing has
    • Modified bitumen systems are excellent at keeping moisture out of roofs but require added drainage systems to continue working correctly.
    • TPO roll systems typically don’t require extra drainage systems
    • Modified bitumen is a reliable go-to option, but petroleum and some other chemicals in its application make it a less environmentally-friendly choice.
    • TPO rolls are considered quite efficient not only in their construction but also in their operation once installed

So, which is the better option? The truth is that there is no definitive answer. Choosing the roof that’s best for your building should always be done on an individual basis, as it depends on factors such as the size and shape of your building, its location, and your needs and preferences. To determine whether modified bitumen roofing or TPO roll roofing is better for your facility, have a roofing specialist in Miami come to inspect your building. They can sort through the particulars of how each type of roof will perform on your building, so you can make a truly informed decision with all the pertinent details in mind.

Find Your Perfect Roof

If you’re ready to learn more about potential roofing options for your commercial buildings, look no further than A & E Brothers Roofing for the advice and installation know-how you require. We specialize in installing roofing systems of all types, including modified bitumen systems and TPO roll roofing, among many others. We’ll give you the rundown on how each of these systems will work for your business and help you make the right decision.

Regardless of which roof you choose for your building, you can rest assured you’ll be happy with the results when you trust us to get the job done the right way. Contact us to learn more about our roofing systems in Miami and how we can give you a superior commercial roofing installation experience. Call (305) 815-7208 now.

Featured Image: Shutterstock / Feroz Photography

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