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McGarry and Madsen's home inspection blog for buyers of  

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Can you coat a TPO roof to extend its life?

Thursday, February 25, 2021

Yes, there are multiple brands of coatings, primarily elastomeric or acrylic, that will extend the life of a TPO (ThermoPlastic Olefin) roof. Here's a few considerations to review before you proceed:
• The roof should be old enough to have lost its shiny finish, at least 5 to 7 years, so the coating can adhere properly.
• Roof surface must be clean.
• Some systems require a base/prep coat first.
• No rain or high winds in the forecast on day of application.

    Also, see our blog posts What is a TPO roof? and What is the average life expectancy of a TPO (Thermoplastic PolyOlefin) roof? and What is the minimum slope of a flat roof? and What is the average life expectancy of an elastomeric roof coating? and What is a "cool roof”? 

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 

Links to some of our other blog posts about FLAT ROOFS (LOW SLOPE):

What causes bubble-like blisters in a built-up and gravel roof?  

Why are most house roofs slanted instead of flat?

What is "ponding" on a flat roof?

Why is there no attic access hatch in the house?

What is the difference between roll roofing and modified bitumen? 

 What is the purpose of the gravel on a flat tar roof? 

Can metal roofing be used on a low slope/pitch roof?  

What is the stuff you paint an old mobile home metal roof with to extend its life?

Does a gravel roof need maintenance?

What is the average lifespan of a built-up and gravel roof?

What is the average lifespan of a modified bitumen roof?  

What is an EPDM roof?

• What is the average life expectancy an EPDM roof? 

 I'm buying a '50s modern house with a "gravel" roof. Is the roof going to be a problem? 

Is "ponding" (standing puddles of water) normal on flat roof?

 What is a low slope roof?

• What is the average life expectancy of a built-up roof? 

     Visit our ROOF AND ATTIC page for other related blog posts on this subject, or go to the INDEX for a complete listing of all our articles.

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