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Why go with the TPO?
If you are considering a single-ply membrane for your re-roofing project, choose LEED approved Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO). TPO has no added chlorine and is 100% recyclable. Compare that with Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC), which throughout its lifecycle, has been proven to be the worst plastic for the environment. The high chlorine content of PVC creates a myriad of environmental problems during manufacturing, combustion and disposal by creating dioxin, a major toxin and global contaminant. PVC burns two extremely hazardous substances, hydrogen chloride gas and dioxin, which present both acute and chronic health hazards to building occupants, fire fighters and surrounding communities. Germany, among others, who were the early pioneers of PVC, has outlawed its installation in their country. Thankfully, PVC is loosing market share to TPO.
TPO is part of a diverse family of rubber-like materials based on polypropylene and EP rubber polymerized together using a state-of-the-art manufacturing technology. Unlike other popular thermoplastic roofing membranes, such as PVC, TPO does not contain chlorine or plasticizers. Without chlorine being added, it can be classified as an environmentally safe "green" product and is 100% recyclable.
The lack of plasticizers in TPO makes it extremely environmentally sound and enables sheets to wear longer and not harden or become brittle over time, keeping them out of the landfill. Flame-retardants, light stabilizers, antioxidants, light absorbers and pigments are blended to create a sheet that is "Title 24" compliant. The white TPO roofing membrane typically has a reflectivity rating in the high 80% range when installed, and after 3 years still maintains a rating in the low 80% range.
In commercial roofing applications, the TPO membrane is installed using mechanical fasteners and plates placed along the leading edge with the next sheet lapped and hot air-welded together. One of the major benefits of TPO is that the welded seams actually become stronger than the sheets themselves, making for an ultra-strong roof. TPO is suitable either as an overlay or for use in a complete tear-off. Sheet thicknesses range from 45 mils to 80 mils, with the 60 mil sheet being the most popular. Because TPO roofing material is manufactured in wide sheets, labor requirements are reduced, especially on larger roof installations, resulting in significant cost savings, making TPO an economical choice. Manufacturer material and labor warranties for TPO roofing range from 10 to 20 years. Cost effective and environmentally sound-we recommend that you go with TPO.
prior tips -
Does Your Contractor Have Adequate Insurance?
Before you choose a contractor, make sure that they have adequate Insurance to cover you in case a problem should arise. Ask the contractor to send you a copy of their Liability and Workman's Comp. policies. Then when you go into contract, have them add you to their policy as an Additional Insured before you start the job. Usually there is no charge for this and it ensures that you are not responsible for any insurance-related issues that take place.
Tenant Improvements - Start at the Top
Thinking of adding some office space, new carpets, fresh paint or even changing your old ceiling tiles? How about some nice office furniture or newer computers?
It's going to look great - you can picture it now. But a word of caution: before you do anything, check out your roof. You don't want a leaky roof to wash away all your hard work and money. It's good practice and more cost effective to budget for preventative maintenance, starting at the top - with your roof. Then you can sit back and enjoy all your great new stuff.
Call the experts at Platinum Roofing, Inc. for a FREE roof inspection.
What Does Apples to Apples Really Mean in the Roofing Industry?
If you get three estimates using three different roofing systems, in reality you have only one estimate (one for each roofing type, which are incomparable). Choose the roofing system for your project with a little research. Don't be afraid to ask questions from the bidding contractors. Once you have chosen your roofing system, put it back out to bid. From there, you can properly compare the estimates since they will all represent the same roofing system.
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// Featured Job
Los Altos Country Club
// Platinum Edge
Buildings consume 40% of the world's total energy. Platinum Roofing services can help:
| >> | lower utility costs |
| >> | promote environmentally effective
use of building materials |
| >> | provide long-term economic returns |
| >> | reduce environmental impact |
Green Capabilities, Solar Installation Consultation, Certifications & Inspections, Roof Maintenance Programs.
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