Are you a homeowner with a flat roof? Are you worried about caring for it properly? Understanding how to maintain a flat roof with TPO roofing is crucial if you want to preserve the integrity of your roof and home. Knowing the differences between traditional and TPO roofing is the first step in understanding proper maintenance for your flat roof. Once we establish a solid foundation on how these roof systems are different, we will look over the types of drainage systems that work in conjunction with the roof to keep water from collecting and causing damage. Most importantly, for the proper function and longevity of your roof, we will offer nine simple tips for maintaining your flat roof.
What is TPO Roofing?
– Thermoplastic Olefin, or TPO, is a material used to cover flat or low-sloped roofs.
– TPO is a single-layered covering that is light and heat-reflective, making it a more energy-efficient roofing material.
What Makes TPO Different?
– Material: Some of the traditional roofing materials most people are familiar with are asphalt shingles, metal, and modified bitumen. Like TPO, each of these materials has its own composition and properties. TPO is distinct because of its thermoplastic properties.
– Durability and Maintenance: TPO is very durable and resistant to UV damage, chemicals, and punctures. Typically, TPO roofing requires less maintenance than other types of roofing materials. However, if you live in an area like Michigan, you know that the winter can bring large amounts of snow. More frequent snow removal may be required after large storms.
– Installation: Unlike shingles that require individual installation, TPO is installed in large sheets. This makes installation quicker and reduces the number of seams which minimizes the potential for leaks.
– Cost: When it comes to cost, TPO roofing is less expensive than metal but more expensive than asphalt shingles.
– Energy Efficiency: Due to its reflective surface, TPO roofing helps deflect heat and lower cooling costs. Other roofing materials tend to absorb heat making those structures less energy efficient.
How Flat Roofs and Their Drainage Systems Work
– Flat roofs offer a variety of benefits. These include a modern aesthetic look, cost-effectiveness, energy efficiency, and easy maintenance.
– Flat roofs provide extra space that can be utilized for a rooftop garden, patio, or living space.
– Flat roofs can also have a variety of different drainage systems in place:
- Gutters can be used on flat roofs, similar to those used on sloped roofs, that collect water and move it through a gutter system and downspout.
- Scuppers are openings in parapet walls, allowing the water to drain off the roof.
- Interior drains can be installed in areas of the roof that tend to collect water where the water can then be drained through the gutter system.
- Crickets are small grooves or ridges that are built into the roof to divert the water away from low spots on the roof.
In Michigan, local building codes ensure that flat roofs are designed with a slight slope to allow for proper drainage.
9 Simple Maintenance Tips for Flat Roofs
1. Regular Inspections: Roof and drainage inspections should be performed at least two times a year. Usually, spring and fall are the best times for these inspections. In the spring you can inspect for any winter damage and in the fall you can clean all debris off before the winter.
2. Keep Records: It is important to record the dates of your inspections and any concerns you may have. This will keep you on schedule for routine checks and remind you of any concerns that you had at the last inspection.
3. Clean the Roof and Drain Systems: Make sure you keep the roof surface and the drainage system clear of any debris and dirt. Flat roofs tend to collect more debris like dirt, sticks, and leaves compared to sloped roofs. Remove any clogs and make sure that the drains are clear and functioning properly. If you have multiple different drainage systems, such as gutters and interior drains, make sure you are checking both.
4. Spray and Srub the Roof Surface: When it comes to cleaning the roof, removing all the loose debris is an important first step, but you also want to scrub down the surface to break up any dirt and debris that is stuck to the roof. Below is a quick guide on how to properly clean your TPO roof:
Step 1: Remove all loose debris if that is not already completed.
Step 2. Spray the roof down with a power washer. You want to make sure the water pressure is no more than 2,000 PSI. This is usually considered a “light duty” level and is anywhere between 320-1599 PSI. In some cases, you may be able to jump up to a “medium duty” level, which is anywhere from 1600-2799 PSI, but the light duty should be plenty for a residential property.
Step 3: Scrub the roof surface with a soft bristle brush and a cleaning solution that is made for TPO roofs.
Step 4: Rinse the surface and push all dirt and water toward the drains.
5. Address Repairs Quickly: For minor damage like cracks and leaks, repairing issues on time will prevent them from becoming much larger problems. Fixing and repairing any concerns promptly is important to maintain the integrity of your roof and the structure of your home.
6. Remove Snow and Ice: Living on the shoreline of Lake Michigan, you know the winters can be rough. Prompt removal of snow and ice after large storms is important to prevent leaks, cracks, or even the collapse of the roof. When a large winter storm hits the area, the snow has a nice flat area to lay and collect, with no momentum and gravity helping it slide off the surface, as pitched roofs do. Making it important to remove the snow as it collects on the roof.
7. Inspect All Seams: Thoughouly inspect the seams of your TPO roof. Make sure there are not any areas that look curled, wavy, or separated. It doesn’t take much of an opening for water to make its way in and cause damage.
8. Professional Inspections: Most roofing companies in Ludington will offer professional inspections. It is a wise decision to have a professional inspection annually to ensure that you have not missed any issues during your regular inspections. Not all Ludington residents are TPO experts, so a professional who understands flat roofing like the back of their hand may notice an issue that needs attention that you may not have noticed.
9. Professional Maintenance: Receiving help from a professional is never a bad idea. From minor issues to major problems, having an experienced professional roofing company take care of the work for you ensures the job is done correctly.
Maintain Your Roof, Protect Your Home
As you have discovered, maintaining a flat roof, especially one with TPO roofing, does not have to be hard. With an understanding of the unique features of TPO compared to traditional materials, and ensuring that the drainage system is functioning properly, you can greatly increase the life of your roof. Regular inspections, cleaning, and prompt repairs are key to preventing major issues like leaks and water damage. Whether you are tackling snow removal in the winter or keeping drainage systems clear in the spring, staying proactive is a must. For peace of mind, consider scheduling an annual professional inspection to catch any hidden issues early. With these nine simple maintenance tips, you can keep your flat roof in great condition for years to come.
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