As a home or business owner with a TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) roof, it’s essential to recognize any warning signs that your roof needs repair. Catching TPO roof issues early allows for smaller fixes before significant leaks and damage occur.
Since TPO roofs are still relatively new to the market, their failure points remain unfamiliar to many building owners. Inspect your commercial or residential TPO roof twice a year and look for these common problems:
Punctures and Holes
Assess your TPO roof for any punctures from hail damage, falling debris, foot traffic accidents, mechanical units being dropped during servicing, or other impacts. Even tiny punctures expand into leaks, so inspect closely around HVAC systems, skylights, vents, chimneys, and other roof protrusions. Note cuts, scrapes, or holes where animals may have accessed the roof as well. Any punctures demand prompt welding repair patches.
Seam Failure
On TPO roofs, separate sheets of the membrane are sealed together with hot air-welded seams. Failed seams become visible as gaps between membrane sheets from inadequate bonding during installation or seam tape deterioration after years of expansion/contraction stress. Water easily penetrates these seam openings. Have an inspector probe all seams for soundness and re-weld any identified weaknesses.
Standing Water
Small rain puddles dissipate fairly quickly on properly sloped and drained TPO roofs. Persistent standing water beyond 48 hours signals drainage issues. Flashing failures, clogged drains/scuppers, and debris accumulation prevent water runoff. The pooling moisture causes seam looseness, seals around roof protrusions to detach, and rust to form – accelerating roof leaks. Identify and eliminate sources of inadequate drainage.
Discoloration and Chalkiness
White TPO membrane grays slightly over time with typical weathering. More pronounced dark streaks indicate ponded water, leaves/debris accumulation, or UV damage which degrades roof integrity. A powdery white chalky texture also demonstrates advanced weathering breakdown. Discoloration and chalking limit reflectivity to magnify heat damage plus require seal rejuvenation and protective coatings.
Cracking/Crazing
Extreme cold, significant hail, or chemical exposure can create small cracks and crazing throughout thermoplastic polyolefin roof expanses. Less common on TPO than blistering, cracking still allows water seepage and reflects brittleness requiring reinforcement. Inspect for crack openings wider than 1/16th an inch which demand sealants for preventing tear spread or wrinkling failure.
Rust Formation
TPO can’t corrode but roof fasteners, screws, nails, pipes, vents, and mechanical supports underneath often contain iron content susceptible to rusting from water exposure. Rust expansion loosens attachments, compromises seals, and sparks leaks. Check areas around flashing anchors, seal termination bars, and HVAC bases for rust spots. Address corrosion issues promptly before water migration to structural decking.
Don’t ignore TPO roof warning signals which amplify into costly fixes if left unaddressed. Catching problems early better protects your property and assets from severe damage tied to uninhibited leaks. If multiple roof repair needs emerge, full replacement may become the most prudent long-term financial decision. By regularly inspecting and recognizing common TPO failures, you can optimize roof lifespan through timely care. Your diligence rewards you with sustained protection from the elements.