What is the difference between vinyl and TPO membranes?
The difference starts with the basic formulations. Vinyl or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) contains a base PVC resin that is modified with plasticizers and UV stabilizers, and reinforced with fiberglass non-woven mats or polyester woven scrims, for use as a flexible roofing membrane. Thermoplastic olefin (TPO) is similar in construction but starts with a polyethylene or polypropylene-based resin. Both products can be welded together with hot air welding equipment and come in a variety of colors and thicknesses. Vinyl roofs are inherently fire resistant and have a broader range of fire ratings over common substrates. Vinyl roofing has a greater resistance to animal fats and certain greases. Vinyl has been sold as commercial roofing products for more than 40 years. TPO is a newer product with about 10 years’ experience in commercial roofing. TPO membrane formulations are still evolving, especially regarding fire retardant additives. Therefore, vinyl roofing has a longer proven track record of
