Have you struggled to tell roofing materials apart from one another as you’ve explored options for your commercial building? Parsons is here to help! In this blog we break down two roofing materials, Duro-Last and TPO, and explain the difference between the two. We’ll break down which one is the better choice for most business owners, and everything else you need to know before deciding your next roofing system.
What Is Duro-Last Roofing?
Duro-Last roofing is a proprietary, single-ply, reinforced membrane commercial roofing system made of PVC. Unlike TPO, it’s a “single source” system, meaning that all components are manufactured by the same company and designed to work together with no additional materials needed. This unified production ensures a more uniform, consistently high-quality product, especially if you work with a contractor who specializes in installing Duro-Last systems.
Described as “The World’s Best Roof” by its manufacturer, Duro-Last has a wide range of benefits to back that claim:
- Longer Lasting
- Built Sustainably
- Energy Efficient
- Cost Effective
Interested in a Duro-Last Roof?
Parsons Roofing is the nation’s leading Duro-Last installer. Learn more about what makes it special and why Parsons is the right company to install it for you below.
What Is Duro-Last’s Typical Lifespan?
Duro-Last is one of the longest-lasting roofing systems on the market. Its average lifespan is between 10 and 25 years, depending on the quality of installation and maintenance. As far as conventional commercial roofing materials go, Duro-Last leads the way in durability.
What Kind of Commercial Roofs Is Duro-Last Ideal For?
Duro-Last is ideal for almost any commercial roofing applications, but is especially effective on flat and low-sloped roofs. Its reinforced membrane provides superior protection against water infiltration, wind damage, and extreme temperatures. It’s also resistant to chemicals and other contaminants, making it a great option for manufacturing buildings.
Why You Should Choose a Duro-Last Roof Over a TPO Roof
Now that we know some of the basic information about both TPO and Duro-Last roofing systems, let’s go into more detail about what makes it the superior roofing choice.
Durability and Extended Lifespan
Compared to TPO roofing, Duro-Last roofing provides a much longer lifespan and greater durability. Its reinforced membrane is designed to withstand extreme temperatures, wind, and other environmental factors.
Weather and Fire Resistance
When it comes to fire safety, Duro-Last roofing is the clear winner. It has a Class A fire rating, which means it can withstand temperatures up to 2000 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, its reinforced membrane is designed to protect your building from high winds and other weather conditions.
Lower Energy and Maintenance Costs
One of the biggest benefits of Duro-Last roofing is its energy efficiency. Its membrane reflects the sun’s rays, which keeps your building cooler in the summer and reduces energy costs. Additionally, the material is resistant to tears and punctures, making it require less maintenance overall when compared to other roofing materials.
Leak Mitigation and Prevention
Leaks are a nonissue with Duro-Last. Its proprietary membrane is designed to be flexible and expand and contract with temperature changes, forming a tight seal around your building. If it’s closely guarded chemical formulation wasn’t enough, the right installer will even heat-weld the seams together for additional protection.
Made-to-Order Customization
When it comes to roofing materials, Duro-Last is designed for your specific needs. The membrane material is available in a variety of colors and can be customized to fit the exact shape of your building.
What Is TPO Roofing?
TPO stands for thermoplastic polyolefin. It’s a single-ply membrane that’s used in commercial roofing applications. TPO consists of a base layer, a reinforcement layer, and a top layer, all of which are bonded together with special adhesives.
TPO roofs are one of the most popular commercial roofing systems due to their affordability, durability, and energy-efficiency. They’re even easy to install and maintain, making them a great choice for business owners looking for an efficient, cost-effective roofing system.
While TPO is a popular choice, it does have limitations when compared to a more sophisticated roofing system like Duro-Last, which we’ll go into more detail on later.
What Is TPO’s Typical Lifespan?
TPO roofs typically last between 8 and 15 years, depending on how well they are maintained. They are resistant to UV rays, but can be prone to punctures, tears, and other damages if they aren’t properly cared for. While TPO is designed to be weather resistant, it becomes increasingly vulnerable to weather damage as it ages.
Weather-related damages to TPO are especially common in areas that deal with frequent hail.
How Much Does TPO Roofing Cost?
The cost of TPO roofing depends on the size of the roof and the type of membrane used. Generally speaking, it’s a relatively affordable commercial roofing system, though you do get what you pay for. When compared to Duro-Last, TPO lasts for a shorter period of time, is damaged more easily, and is more likely to deal with issues like leaks.
Get Your Duro-Last Roof: Contact Parsons Today
Parsons Roofing is the country’s leading Duro-Last installer, and we can handle installations for a huge range of commercial businesses. We have been constructing excellent roofs since 1948, and can do the same for you. Contact us today to learn more about how a Duro-Last roof can be the perfect solution for your property.
