Hot Melt Roofing

TPO stands for thermoplastic polyolefin. It is a single-ply membrane made from a blend of polypropylene and ethylene-propylene rubber. The material is reinforced with a polyester scrim layer which gives it strength and dimensional stability. It is designed to stay flexible across a wide temperature range and resist UV light, ozone and everyday chemical exposure.

A correctly installed TPO roof typically lasts between 20 and 25 years. Some systems perform beyond that with routine maintenance. The lifespan depends on the quality of the installation, the membrane thickness used and how well drainage is maintained. A thicker membrane, such as 60 or 80 mil, generally gives a longer service life than a thinner one.

Yes. TPO was used in commercial roofing first but is now widely fitted on domestic flat roofs, extensions, garage roofs and outbuildings. It works well on smaller surfaces and can be fitted over a range of deck types. The clean white finish is also a practical advantage on extensions where appearance matters.

The roof deck is inspected and prepared first. Insulation board is laid where required and the TPO membrane is then fixed across the surface either by full adhesion, mechanical fastening or ballasting. All seams are heat-welded using hot air equipment to create a continuous watertight bond. Edges, upstands and drainage outlets are finished before a final inspection.

Both are single-ply flat roofing membranes but they are made from different compounds. EPDM is a rubber membrane that is usually black and is bonded with adhesive at the seams. TPO is typically white or light grey and uses heat-welded seams which create a stronger bond. TPO also reflects heat more effectively than EPDM, which can reduce cooling costs in warmer months.

In most cases replacing a flat roof is treated as permitted development on a residential property and does not need planning permission. If the property is listed or in a conservation area, additional rules may apply. It is always worth checking with your local planning authority if you are unsure before work begins.

Yes. Localised damage such as splits, punctures or seam failures can usually be repaired without replacing the whole roof. Repairs are carried out using compatible TPO material which is heat-welded into place. The repair bonds fully with the existing membrane and restores the watertight seal. If damage is widespread, a full replacement may be more cost-effective.

TPO membranes are available in 45 mil, 60 mil and 80 mil thicknesses. For most domestic roofs a 60 mil membrane gives a good balance of performance and cost. On commercial roofs or high-traffic areas, 80 mil is often recommended for added durability. We will advise on the right thickness based on your roof and how it is used.

TPO stays flexible at low temperatures, which means it does not crack or become brittle in winter. The heat-welded seams remain intact regardless of temperature changes, unlike adhesive-bonded systems which can be affected by freezing conditions. The membrane also sheds water effectively when the roof is installed with the correct falls.

TPO requires very little maintenance compared to older felt systems. The main task is keeping drainage outlets clear of leaves and debris, which should be done at least twice a year. It is also worth having the roof checked after severe weather and having a professional inspection every few years to catch any minor issues early before they develop further.

Yes, when installed alongside modern insulation boards a new TPO roof can significantly improve a building’s thermal performance. Warm roof construction places insulation above the structural deck, which reduces heat loss and prevents condensation. TPO’s reflective white surface also reduces heat gain in summer. Together these improvements can lower energy bills meaningfully.

Most domestic TPO roof installations are completed within two to four days depending on the size of the roof and the preparation required. Larger commercial roofs take longer. We provide a clear timeline before work starts so you know what to expect and when the property will be back to normal.

Building regulations approval is generally required when replacing a flat roof as the work must meet current standards for structure, fire safety and thermal performance. A competent roofing contractor will ensure the installation is compliant. Skipping this step can cause problems when selling a property, so it is important to confirm compliance before work is signed off.

Abel Roofing is rated 9.91 out of 10 on Checkatrade based on verified customer reviews. We give honest assessments, use quality materials and carry out every job to a standard we are proud of. We do not recommend work that does not need doing and we explain clearly what your roof needs and why before anything is agreed.