UV Degradation in TPO Roofing: How Sunlight Breaks Down TPO Membranes

Work With the Best Roofing Contractors in Central Texas

UV Degradation in TPO Roofing: How Sunlight Breaks Down TPO Membranes

Quality is at the heart of our Austin roofing company in every project we take on. Contact our experienced Central Texas roofers for a same-day, pressure-free inspection. Call 512-375-3654 to book your free inspection.

If you need a new roof installed, LOA is the roofing company to call! Our roofing experts are known for providing quality workmanship at a fair price. If you own a house or business in Central Texas you can't afford to work with another roofer.

Find out how much roof replacement will cost in Austin, Texas and the surrounding areas.

Schedule a FREE Roof Inspection

TPO roofing membranes (thermoplastic polyolefin) are typically very good at handling UV radiation. They have UV stabilizers embedded in the membrane, are usually white and are a solid surface with few penetration points.

But the fact remains, all materials degrade and UV radiation makes it worse. It can accelerate the process significantly. UV degradation is one of the most common TPO roofing problems that leads to premature wear and replacement. The UV radiation is so damaging it breaks down the polymer chains of the TPO membrane. When that happens the roofing won't function as well and can even lose its ability to protect against water infiltration.

Age is an indicator of whether there are UV radiation issues, but it isn't the only factor. Every owner with a TPO roof system should look for the signs of UV damage to know when repair is needed and what those repairs entail.

Is UV Radiation Causing Your TPO Roof to Wear Out?

Contact LOA to Schedule Roof Inspection That Will Examine the Damage!

Signs of UV Damage on TPO Roofing Material

Just like skin, the surface of TPO roof materials will tell you if there's UV damage. If you notice one or all of the following things UV degradation is probably underway:

Discoloration
Chalky residue
Fine surface cracks (known as crazing)

Another sign is notable reductions in energy efficiency. Damage and degradation makes TPO less UV resistant. It won't be as good at blocking the heat from penetrating through and energy costs will go up.

Over time you may also notice shrinkage. The UV rays cause the TPO material to contract, and as it shrinks, it will pull at the edges and cause seam failures.

Compounding Factors Paired With Prolonged Exposure to UV Radiation

Harsh Weather Conditions - Extreme heat, high winds, hail - the weather is another environmental factor that amplifies the effects of UV exposure and can create significant damage all on its own.

Inadequate Drainage Systems - Standing water also degrades materials more quickly. Not a good combination with loads of UV exposure that's also degrading the roofing.

Heavy Foot Traffic - Even though some roofs are fairly flat, roofing materials aren't designed with a lot of foot traffic in mind. It can create significant wear that makes degradation worse.

How to Fix a TPO Roof System That Has UV Degradation

This is a problem where poor installation isn't necessarily a factor. There's no way to completely protect TPO roofing systems from UV damage. Proper installation and high quality materials can be used, but given enough time in the sun, the material won't be the same.

There are three roofing options that address UV damage depending on the severity.

Recoating - Reflective coatings can extend the TPO roof's lifespan by adding a layer of UV protection. The UV rays are reflected rather than absorbed so the material doesn't break down as quickly.

Recovering - If the roof requires more than recoating but the seams are good and it's structurally fine, recovering could be the better solution. This is adding another layer of TPO material over the top.

Replacement - If the roofing material is significantly damaged or the damage is widespread across most of the roof, then replacement may be the recommendation. Unlike recovering, with replacement the existing materials are removed and everything is replaced.

Proper maintenance is needed to keep TPO roofing in good shape and minimize further damage as much as possible. TPO roof maintenance includes a thorough inspection at least once a year will tell you how the roof is holding up and when it's time to recoat to avoid more costly repairs.

The roofing team at LOA can fix UV problems fast with roofing solutions that are efficient, effective and affordable. If you own commercial buildings or a flat roof residence in the Austin, TX area, give us a call at 512-375-3654 on schedule a free roof inspection online.

We're One of the Highest Rated
Roofers in Austin for a Reason

At LOA, we believe success is defined by customer satisfaction. We're proud to say we have some of the happiest clients in the roofing industry! You can find hundreds of 5-star reviews like the ones below online.

"I got three inspections and decided to use LOA Construction for a new roof. LOA’s Dan Harvey worked with my insurance inspector to make sure all the hail/wind damage was accounted for, gave us a good choice of shingle colors, and was great at communicating. The workers did quality work, found and repaired rotted wood and cleaned up. Highly recommend!"

— Brian McFarlin, 5-Star Google Review

"Brandon at LOA construction made replacement of our roof very easy. He was the only roofing contractor that I could find that would work directly with our insurance company. They showed up on time and made the whole process very easy. And we have a great looking high quality roof! I Would definitely recommend them to anyone looking for a new roof. Give them a call if you need a roof or think you might have wind or hail damage. I had several other bids that were higher cost and didn't think our insurance would cover it. Our insurance did cover it, I think they were just unwilling to work with the insurance company. Not Brandon, not only was he will to work with our insurance he met with the adjuster and made the whole thing a breeze. Thanks again LOA and Brandon!!!!"

— Mike A., 5-Star Google Review

LOA Construction has exceeded my expectations again. This is the second roof installation with them and I couldn't be happier. Specifically, Tyler Griffiths is professional, attentive, and made the entire process of working with my insurance company effortless. My tenant sent a glowing account of their experience as well. Knowing it was a rental, they still diligently protected all property and plants. They were on time every time and went out of their way to not inconvenience the residents. LOA Construction has integrity and takes pride in their work. I couldn't recommend them more.

— Sheri Moran

"Worked with Zac and his team. Zac did an outstanding job working with the insurance company to ensure all damage was covered. Roof and gutters installed each were on time and all work was top of the line. This is a company that really does put the customer first. With out question I would recommend loa construction and roofing."

— Tony Smith, 5-Star Google Review

From the very start, I knew I was in good hands. The professionalism was top-notch, but most important, was the caring attitude of the project manager, Dan Harvey, the roofing supervisor, Ambrocio, and the roofing crew. They made sure every detail was covered. They are definitely an asset to LOA Construction. I highly recommend them. Dennis and Suzy S

— Dennis Sanger

Andrew was very great at getting myself and my wife all the information and getting us started from start to completion. His workers were friendly and professional. If ever I had to contact him, he was quick to respond back. We are very happy with the finished product. Yes, I would and have recommended him and his company to get their work by LOA Construction and Austin. Andrew made sure my wife would be satisfied with whatever roof she liked. Can't thank you enough Andrew and LOA Construction.

— Paul Coleman

As a first time home owner with no experience in how to make claims and start the process of getting a new roof I was scared to the point of avoiding what needed to get done after the bad hail storm. August Walker did an amazing job walking me through each step along the way. He answered all my questions and calmed my concerns. They inspected my roof and drove from Austin to Belton just to be there with the ins inspector, and followed up with me in person after the roof was installed. He also made a special trip back to drop off samples! I’m grateful to August and LOA construction for being highly professional and friendly!

— Angela Baker

From start to finish Lee and his team took great care of us. He made us feel comfortable during the process and answered any and all questions we had. I would definitely them recommend to anyone.

— Taneisha Jones

Arthur Harris and his team with LOA Construction did an excellent job on our roof. They finished it in one day. Arthur was very good in explaining all the information to us.

— Crystal Hill

Will, has been so awesome and easy to work with he gets everything we want done the way we want it and also keeps us updated as we are over the road truck drivers !!! Hands down to LOA Construction for their great service and great customer service !!!

— Tanya Dudkiewicz

Dan Harvey is Very Knowledgeable and directed me straight to the products that will save us money in the next 3 years the savings on energy costs alone will pay for the installation itself. I highly recommend LOA Construction and Dan Harvey! Actual Customer Jefferson Fara

— Jefferson Fara

Mark from LOA roofing was very professional from the git, the initial estimate process, he quickly identified all the issues that needed to be addressed. The company was very prompt, to coordinate the crew, and for a very reasonable price, got my roof repaired without any hassle. They also took care of all the cleaning, so that it all looked like nothing happened. I would recommend Mark from LOA to anyone needing a roof repair, with no kind of hesitation.

— Ale León

Loa Construction provides quality services in installing roof and related repairs. I’ll recommend it to my friends and family.

— Peijie Li

Thanks to Landon Wells of LOA Construction for the beautiful new roof! It was all completed in one day including a meticulous clean up job afterwards. The workers were all polite and professional. Landon made sure everything went smoothly and that all of our questions were answered. I am thrilled with our new roof. I would definitely recommend Landon and LOA Construction to all of my friends and family. Thank you Landon!

— Renee Johnson

Choose quality roofing for a lasting investment in your home.

Request an Inspection

Dedicated to excellence, our Austin roofing company ensures quality in every project. Contact our skilled Central Texas roofers for a same-day, hassle-free inspection. Call +1 (512) 375-3654 to book your free inspection.