Thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) is a roofing material that offers multiple benefits at an affordable price to people with low-pitch roofs. While it is cost-effective, you must maintain it properly to prevent leaks and costly repairs. Roofing systems require good maintenance if you want them to protect your home efficiently. Here are ways to maintain your TPO roofing system and prolong its lifespan.
What Is TPO?
TPO is a roofing material made out of recycled rubber. It is typically used on flat roofs with a low pitch. TPO is tear-resistant and lightweight. Its surface is reflective, which helps to reduce your energy bills. It is also a low-cost roofing material and is cost-effective as long as you properly maintain your roof.
Maintenance of a TPO Roofing System
If you fail to maintain your TPO roof, the material can break down, leading to leaks and structural damage. To prolong your flat roof’s lifespan, follow the tips below.
1. Ensure Proper Drainage
Because of their low pitch, flat roofs often have drainage problems. Water can pool on the surface, and dirt can build up. This can lead to leaks as the water causes the roofing material to deteriorate.
Without proper drainage to draw water away, mildew, mold, algae, and vegetation can flourish on the roof. These materials can then penetrate through the roof, causing rot and compromising its structural integrity.
Accumulated debris also attracts pests. This can lead to property damage and health risks. Bird droppings carry fungi and bacteria that can cause disease. Droppings are acidic and can eat away at your building’s roof.
To prevent these issues, you must properly maintain your home’s gutters and drainage system. Doing so is a key part of maintaining your TPO roof.
2. Trim or Cut Down Nearby Trees
While TPO is a strong roofing material, you must still protect it from tears and punctures. Besides removing debris that accumulates on your roof, you should also trim nearby trees so branches don’t fall and puncture the membrane. Remove trees that hang over the roof or trim branches to prevent this from happening.
3. Implement a Regular Cleaning Schedule
Implement a regular cleaning schedule for your TPO roof. Removing debris prevents damage. You should also regularly wash the surface to keep it white and allow it to maintain its reflectiveness.
Clean the gutters to prevent clogs and avoid drainage issues common with flat roofs. Check the flashing every time you clean the roof and repair it to prevent leaks.
Your roof should be cleaned per the manufacturer’s guidelines to remove mold, dirt, and algae. If the reflective white surface becomes dirty, it will affect the energy efficiency of your building and increase your utility bills.
You’ll need to protect the base flashing and other areas where pressurized water could penetrate during the cleaning process as well. Cover vegetation around your structure to keep the cleaning solutions from harming them.
TPO roofs are cleaned with a mild solution and a low-pressure power washer. The cleaning solution must be rinsed off, and incidental damage should be promptly repaired.
The cleaning process involves the following actions:
- Protecting areas that water could penetrate
- Rinsing the surface with a low-pressure power washer
- Cleaning the roof with a soft bristle broom and a TPO-safe cleaning solution
- Rinsing the solution with the pressure washer
- Repeating the steps as necessary until it’s clean
- Inspecting the TPO surface for damage and making necessary repairs
It’s important to schedule regular inspections and maintenance with a professional roofing contractor like Clark's Gables Roofing in Roseville. Our roofing technicians understand how TPO works as well as the cleaning process. Your roofing inspector will check for signs of deterioration around skylights, ends, and joints. Small holes can lead to severe damage and should be promptly repaired.
Our Experienced Roofing Professionals
If your roof is showing signs of wear and tear, talk to the roofing professionals at Clark's Gables Roofing. Our roofers are fully licensed and insured, and we are compliant with Title 24. We offer a full spectrum of roofing services, including simple repairs, whole roof replacements, maintenance, and inspections.
For more information about our roofing services, contact us at Clark's Gables Roofing in Roseville today.
