TPO vs. EPDM Roofing: What’s the Difference?

TPO and EPDM roofing are both solid options for flat or low-sloped roofs, and the best option for your building depends on the climate in your area. They both cost about the same to install, but long-term costs will vary based on weather conditions. In this guide, we’ll explain all the differences between these two flat roof materials to help you decide which suits your project best.

TPO vs. EPDM Roofing: Key Differences

TPO roofing is usually white, which makes it more energy-efficient in hotter climates, and it stands up better to impact from hail and blown debris. EPDM roofing tends to fare better in extreme temperatures, can last about twice as long, and is easier to repair, making it a better option for value in most cases.

What Is TPO Roofing?

Photo: Mathew / Adobe Stock

TPO roofing is a single-ply roofing material that is usually white and comes in a sheet. It’s made of rubber and filler material and is an increasingly popular option for flat and low-sloped roof types. A professional will either use adhesives or mechanical fasteners to install it, and the light color can help reduce cooling costs in hotter temperatures.

Best for: 

• Reducing cooling bills in hotter climates

• Roofs that could see impact damage from hail or blown debris

• A more aesthetically pleasing roof

Pros of TPO Roofing

The standard TPO roofing color is white, which means it reflects sunlight and helps reduce heat transfer to your building. As such, it can help reduce cooling costs in hotter climates. Many building owners also prefer the appearance of the white, reflective surface of TPO roofing over the standard black color of EPDM roofing.

TPO roofing stands up better to impacts than EPDM, which punctures more easily. That means TPO is the preferred roofing material in areas with frequent hail or where roofs could be subject to debris from severe weather and strong winds.

TPO roofs have better resistance to chemicals, so they’re usually preferred in areas with higher air pollution and in industrial and some commercial areas.

Cons of TPO Roofing

The white color of TPO roofing is ideal for reducing cooling costs in hotter climates, but it’s not ideal in colder climates where solar heat gain would be beneficial.

Both roofing materials cost about the same to install, but TPO roofing can have half the life span of EPDM roofing, and it’s more expensive and challenging to repair. As such, the value you’ll see from a TPO roof will be lower over time.

Finally, TPO roofing is reasonably fire-resistant, but it doesn’t match the resiliency of EPDM roofing.

What Is EPDM Roofing?

Photo: Tomasz Zajda / Adobe Stock

EPDM roofing is another single-ply roofing material that’s usually black in color and comes in sheets. The dark color absorbs sunlight and more readily transfers heat to the building below, making it ideal in colder climates. It’s also made of rubber, and its primary use is on flat or low-sloped roofs. EPDM roofing comes with three installation options: ballasted, mechanically fastened, and fully adhered.

Best for: 

• Buildings in colder climates, where solar heat gain would reduce cooling costs

• Long-term value and affordability

• Ease of maintenance

Pros of EPDM Roofing

EPDM roofing is usually black, which means it absorbs sunlight and can transfer the heat to your building. This makes it a better option in colder climates, as the heat gain can help reduce heating costs. EPDM roofing is more flexible, so while it’s ideal in colder climates, it can resist more extreme temperature changes without sustaining damage.

EPDM roofing lasts for up to 15 to 25 years and even longer with proper maintenance and repairs. This is two to three times longer than TPO, meaning it provides greater value over time. It’s also easier and more affordable to repair, adding to the overall value and ROI.

Finally, EPDM is more fire-resistant than TPO, making it a better option in areas where wildfires are a concern.

Cons of EPDM Roofing

The biggest drawback of EPDM roofing is that it’s not nearly as puncture-resistant as TPO roofing. It may not be the best option if you live in an area that sees frequent hail or where the roof is at risk of impact from blown debris during strong winds.

EPDM roofing’s black coloring is considered less visually appealing than the standard white color of TPO roofing. You can purchase white EPDM roofing, but the added reflective layer drives up material costs.

Finally, EPDM roofing can degrade more quickly in the presence of chemicals, so the life span can be a bit shorter than expected if your building is in an area with heavy air pollution, like an industrial park or a predominately commercial area.

TPO vs. EPDM Roofing

There are a few important differences between TPO and EPDM roofing to consider before deciding which is best for your property and your climate.

Appearance: TPO Roofing

The appearance preference for roofing is subjective, but building owners tend to prefer the look of TPO roofing. TPO roofing is typically white and reflective, which provides a cleaner look than the usual black coloring of EPDM roofing.

Longevity: EPDM Roofing

EPDM roofing can last 25 years or longer with proper maintenance, and some building owners see 30 or more years of useful life from the material. TPO roofing’s life span falls between 7 and 20 years in most cases, meaning EPDM can last two to three times longer.

Weather Resistance: Tie

EPDM roofing is often the preferred option where heavy rainfall and snowfall are common because it’s easier and more affordable to repair. While both options resist water well, dealing with leaks is a bit more challenging with TPO roofing.

While EPDM is best for heavy rain and snow, TPO is more resistant to punctures and damage from hail and blown debris. As such, TPO is preferred in areas prone to hurricanes, tropical storms, and other extreme weather. The option that works best for you depends on the weather in your area.

Durability: EPDM Roofing

EPDM roofing can hold up for around 30 years, while TPO can last for between 7 and 25 years. Weather plays a role in the overall durability of each material, but EPDM edges out TPO in terms of resilience, especially since it’s easier to repair.

Ease of Repair: EPDM Roofing

Repairs for EPDM roofing are easier and more affordable than what you’d see with TPO roofing. If you’re concerned with the long-term cost of maintaining your roofing material, EPDM is likely the better option. Make sure you hire a reliable roofing company to carry out repairs, as mistakes can be costly.

Cost: Tie

Both EPDM and TPO roofing costs between $4 and $12 per square foot to install, so in most cases, the total will be similar.

Energy Efficiency: Tie

TPO roofing is more energy-efficient in hotter temperatures because the surface is white and reflective, which the Department of Energy classifies as a “cool roof.” TPO roofing reflects more sunlight and prevents solar heat gain inside your building, making it a more efficient option in hot, sunny climates.

EPDM is usually black, which means it absorbs more heat from the sun and transfers more to your building. This makes EPDM a more efficient option in colder climates, where solar heat gain can help reduce heating costs.

Maintenance: Tie

Both EPDM and TPO roofs will need regular roof maintenance, including clearing roof drains and keeping up with repairs to prevent roof leaks. Maintenance for EPDM roofs tends to be more affordable, but you might need maintenance more often, as the material is more susceptible to tears and punctures.

Maintenance and repairs for both are challenging for DIYers, so your best option is to call a local roofing company to have the work done by a professional.

Sustainability: Tie

Both EPDM and TPO roofing use materials derived from petroleum and natural gas, so the manufacturing process is about equally as sustainable. Both materials are also recyclable.