Elastic Membrane vs TPO Membrane: What You Need to Know!
Whether it’s for a residence, a commercial building, or an industrial facility, choosing the best roofing solution can seem overwhelming with so many options available. Among the most popular choices for flat roof coverings are elastic membranes and thermoplastic polyolefin membranes, better known as TPO. Both stand out for their durability and advantageous features, such as reducing heat islands and improving building energy efficiency.
But how do you determine which of these two roofing options is best for your project? The team at Couvreur Couv-Toit has the answers!
The Elastic Membrane Roof
A modern alternative to gravel and asphalt roofs, the elastic membrane is ideal for covering large flat roof areas. The elastic membrane consists of a base layer of asphalt modified by polymers, such as synthetic rubber, and a top layer covered with gravel. This type of roofing is essentially a mix of asphalt and gravel roofing, which is why it is also called modified bitumen membrane.
Much easier to maintain than gravel or asphalt roofs, the elastic membrane is also much quicker and simpler to install.
The First Layer of the Elastic Membrane Roof
The first layer of the elastic membrane, delivered in rolls, is made of synthetic rubber. The installation of the self-adhesive membrane is done cold with adhesive strips, ensuring complete adhesion without the use of nails. It can also be installed using a hot application method, where heat activates the adhesive properties of the membrane components.
The Second Layer of the Elastic Membrane Roof
The second layer of the elastic membrane is composed of colored ceramic gravel that protects the roof from solar heat and radiation, thus reducing the internal temperature of buildings while providing an elegant finish. The installation of the second layer of the elastic membrane is done using the heat from a torch or a hot self-adhesive system. The seams of the base layer are heated to melt the asphalt, creating a sealant that adheres to the finishing layer, ensuring superior waterproofing.
The TPO Roof
Comprising a single layer of thermoplastic polyolefin about 1.5 cm thick, the TPO membrane is eco-friendly because it contains no chemicals, unlike the elastic membrane, and is fully recyclable at the end of its life. The installation of the TPO membrane is safe; the seams are welded together with a hot iron, producing no flames.
The TPO roof membrane combines durability and strength thanks to its components and hot-welded seams. It offers exceptional waterproofing and increased resistance to weather conditions, UV rays, bacteria, mold, moisture, and insects. Its smooth finish, unlike the granular finish of the elastic membrane, also makes it very easy to maintain.
The Membrane for Your Roof: Elastic or TPO?
Essentially, these two types of roofing differ in the composition of their membranes; one is two-layered, while the other is single-layered. To better understand their distinct characteristics, here is a table summarizing the key similarities and differences between these two types of membranes: :
Characteristics of the Elastic Membrane
- Lifespan: 10 to 35 years
- High waterproofing if well maintained
- Excellent resistance to extreme temperatures, so there is no breakage due to thermal shock
- Excellent weather resistance
- Easy to maintain and repair
- Great value for money
- Available in a wide range of colors, which provides a harmonious and elegant appearance
The particularities of the TPO membrane
- Lifetime of up to 40 years
- High resistance to standing water
- Remarkable flexibility that allows the membrane to follow the movements of the building and adapt to temperature variations
- Polyester reinforcement that guarantees increased resistance to tears, perforations and attacks of small rodents
- No rock or gravel, which requires much less maintenance
- Great lightness and affordability thanks to the materials used
- Made without chlorine or harmful agent from 100% recyclable materials
Couvreur Couv-Toit, Your Roofing Expert
Looking to repair your roof or redo its covering? Contact the experts at Couvreur Couv-Toit now. They will guide you towards the best roofing choice for your project and answer all your questions about elastic membranes and TPO membranes!