When commercial buildings face intense sun, pounding rain, high winds, or freeze-thaw cycles, the right roofing system makes all the difference. TPO and silicone coatings are both trusted in the industry, but they perform differently depending on the specific weather challenges in your region. Here’s a breakdown of how each system handles the elements.
UV Resistance and Sun Exposure Performance
Silicone Coatings:
Silicone is naturally UV stable, making it highly resistant to sun damage. It doesn’t chalk, crack, or degrade like some other coatings or membranes, even after years of direct sunlight. This makes it an excellent choice for hot, high-sun areas.
TPO Roofing:
TPO offers high reflectivity when new and is designed to reduce rooftop heat. However, it can lose reflectivity over time without routine cleaning and may become brittle with prolonged UV exposure in some climates.
Waterproofing Under Heavy Rain and Ponding
Silicone Coatings:
Silicone excels in waterproofing and is one of the only coatings that holds up to ponding water without breaking down. Its hydrophobic nature makes it perfect for flat or low-slope roofs where drainage is a challenge.
TPO Roofing:
TPO is water-resistant but not ideal for roofs where water tends to pool. Long-term ponding can weaken seams or lead to issues at penetrations, making additional drainage solutions critical for performance.
Durability in High Wind Conditions
TPO Roofing:
TPO systems are mechanically fastened or fully adhered, giving them excellent wind uplift resistance when installed to code. They’re a strong choice for hurricane- or tornado-prone regions.
Silicone Coatings:
Silicone bonds to the existing roof surface and isn’t mechanically anchored. It performs well in wind only if the underlying roof is secure. It’s better suited to restoring roofs in moderately windy areas rather than high-wind zones.
Flexibility in Freezing and Thawing Cycles
Silicone Coatings:
Silicone remains flexible in all temperatures. Its ability to expand and contract with the building makes it well-suited to regions with drastic temperature swings and repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
TPO Roofing:
TPO can perform in cold climates, but extreme temperature changes can stress seams and reduce flexibility over time. Proper installation and detailing are key to its success in these environments.
Longevity with Minimal Maintenance in Harsh Climates
Silicone Coatings:
Silicone offers low-maintenance longevity. It resists UV, ponding water, and temperature-related wear—typically lasting 10–20 years with minimal upkeep.
TPO Roofing:
TPO membranes can last 20–30 years but require more frequent inspections and occasional seam maintenance to perform well over time, especially in areas with extreme weather fluctuations.
Conclusion:
Silicone coatings are the better choice for buildings dealing with intense sunlight, ponding water, and freeze-thaw cycles. TPO roofing is stronger in high-wind areas and ideal for new construction or complete roof replacements. Your ideal solution depends on your building’s location and the type of environmental stress it faces.
Ridgeline Roofing and Solar installs both systems with expertise tailored to your climate. For commercial roofing services in Joplin, MO, Bentonville, AR, and Grove, OK, contact us today for a FREE quote and expert guidance on the best extreme-weather roofing system for your building.