9 TPO Roof Maintenance Tips

Homes with flat and low-sloping roofs have a relatively new solution to consider: thermoplastic polyolefin roofing, AKA TPO roofing. The increasingly popular rubber-based roofing material can lower your roof's temperature up to 50 degrees and costs less than its shingle and tile competitors. 

While the material can last up to 25 years, TPO roof maintenance is key to keeping the comparatively thin membrane strong and stable.

1. Set a Regular Cleaning Schedule

One of the most common TPO roofing problems is inherent to its shape. Like any flat roof, TPO roofs are more likely to collect rainwater, leaves, and branches, all of which can attract lichens, mold, and pests. Make sure to clean your TPO roof at least twice a year, if not up to four times after each major change in the seasons. 

You can use a pressure washer up to 2000 PSI, a mild cleaning solution, and a soft-bristled brush. Professional roof cleaning costs as little as $150 and will cost less to clean than hard-to-access roofs.

2. Arrange an Annual Inspection

In addition to your cleaning schedule, professional inspections are key to long-term TPO roof maintenance. Roof inspections can catch tears, thinning, or mold buildup. Professionals can also catch problems surrounding the seams of the roof to ensure it remains properly intact in areas prone to damage. 

When you initially choose a roofing professional, talk with them about ongoing maintenance packages for inspections and cleaning.

3. Stick with Approved Products

Always check with your manufacturer's guide for tips on cleaning and maintaining the specific type of TPO roof. Each brand uses a range of fillers that may require unique cleaning instructions. In nearly all cases, it's best to use a gentle solution such as an all-purpose cleaner or a roofing spray designed for TPO roofs. Avoiding hard cleaning chemicals and bleach will prolong the life of your roof, particularly with comparatively sensitive materials like TPO.

4. Trim Surrounding Branches

Save yourself a whole lot of trouble by keeping rogue branches off your TPO roof as much as possible. For accessible trees, trim the branches yourself at least once a year, particularly if they hang over your home. Taller trees, however, are best left to the professionals. 

5. Keep Your Gutters Clear

Ensuring proper roof drainage is crucial. Your gutters are the primary method of draining water off the roof, so be sure to check them for debris at least twice a year and more if you live in an area with heavy leaves in the fall. 

However, it's possible to clean your own gutters if you're comfortable with the height, but call a roof cleaning professional if you are remotely in doubt about safely climbing up to your eaves.

6. Tread Lightly

Even though a TPO roof is stable enough to walk on, it's crucial to treat the material with more delicacy than traditional roofing materials. Opt for soft rubber soles whenever possible, though stick with shoes that have proper treads to remain safe. 

Check your shoes for stones, dirt, and grit before walking on the TPO material. Also, avoid standing in one area for too long, particularly when fixing flashing around your roof's edge, a dormer, or the chimney.

7. Repair the Flashing

The flashing around the outside of TPO roofs can be prone to failure over time, particularly in some extreme climates. Always check the flashing around leak-prone areas before using a power washer or during your regular inspections. When it comes to roof repair costs, repairing flashing costs between $200 and $500, depending on the variety and size of the repair.

8. Always Put Safety First

Similar to PVC roofing, TPO roofing is more slippery after a rainstorm than other materials. Take extra care when cleaning or removing debris from your roof, and always wear proper protective equipment when working with tools, cleaners, or caulk. As always, adhere to the proper ladder safety tips when accessing your roof.

9. Address Repairs Immediately

In many cases, you can repair a TPO roof with specially manufactured patches that cover tears, holes, and brittle areas. You may also need to replace the flashing around your gutters, windows, and the chimney. In either case, the best TPO maintenance tip to prolong your roof is to inspect and repair damage as soon as possible.