Chaffee Roofing Commercial Roofing Services

Roofing Materials Compared for Lifespan & Durability

Compare roofing materials for lifespan & durability. Make an informed choice to protect your investment. TPO, EPDM & more reviewed.

Lifespan and durability are not the same for all roofing materials. 

Without getting service from a roofing material, what is the point of your investment?

When looking for a replacement roof, or choosing a new one, take time to investigate these two qualities. The short time spent looking at your alternatives may save you a lot of money in the future. There are many roofing materials available, so making the right choice may not be easy. When you know what you are looking for, then the decision becomes a simple one.

To help make that decision take a look at your alternatives.

TPO is one choice

TPO has proven to be good on flat roofs. It is easy to apply and a cheaper alternative to other roofing materials.

The lifespan of TPO is around 20 to 30 years, depending on the thickness of the membrane and how it is installed. A significant factor in the life of TPO is the quality of the material, which can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. Always insist on top-quality TPO from a reputable manufacturer like Carlisle, Firestone, or GAF. Additionally, spend the extra money on the thicker 60 mil or even 80 mil TPO. The extra thickness will add years to the lifespan of the roof.

TPO is durable and does not corrode. TPO is typically heat welded where it overlaps, making TPO suitable for roofs with rooftop units, vent pipe, and other penetrations. Overall, it is an excellent price to performance roof system.

EPDM is worth the investment

EPDM is top-quality roofing material.

When installed professionally with a reputable contractor and manufacturer, EPDM can have a lifespan of 20 to 30 years, with some “membrane only” warranties (non-labor) going up to 40 years. That is something not to be sneezed at when investing for the future. 

EPDM is also very durable. 

It withstands heat and cold and does not shrink or expand under the UV rays of the sun. The material is puncture resistant and repairable, which is always a good sign for durability and lifespan.

Other alternatives for roofing materials

Outside of the two choices for flat roofs, you do have alternatives.

Asphalt varies in quality and style but can last up to 25 years. It is vulnerable to UV light, which can shorten lifespan and hurt durability, especially if it doesn’t have stone, granules, or coating.

Modern PVC membrane is durable and has a long lifespan, especially if higher quality KEE PVC is used. It can be expensive, but long term savings can offset initial costs depending on how your roof system is used.

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Our experts can answer all of your questions.
Get the best advice before investing in your roof.
Call us today for all your roofing needs.

Why Choose Chaffee?

Our family business was founded in 1908, over 100 years ago. That’s quite an accomplishment, considering the average contractor stays in business for only 2 years. Since we were founded in 1908, four generations of Chaffee have owned the company, and four generations have worked at Chaffee, providing excellent commercial and industrial roofing services.

Chaffee Roofing Commercial Roof Services

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