If you manage or own a commercial building in the DFW area, choosing the right roofing system is one of the most important decisions you will make. Two of the most popular options for flat and low-slope commercial roofs are TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) and EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) — and while they might look similar from the ground, they perform very differently over the life of your building.
At PROCO Roofing, we install and service both TPO and EPDM systems across Fort Worth, Dallas, and the broader DFW metroplex. Here is an honest comparison to help you decide which system makes the most sense for your property.
What Is TPO Roofing?
TPO is a single-ply roofing membrane made from a blend of polypropylene and ethylene-propylene rubber. It has become the fastest-growing commercial roofing material in the United States over the past decade, and for good reason.
TPO membranes are typically white or light-colored, which reflects sunlight and reduces cooling costs — a significant advantage in the Texas heat. The seams are heat-welded, creating a bond that is actually stronger than the membrane itself. This makes TPO exceptionally resistant to leaks at seam lines, which is the most common failure point for flat roofing systems.
TPO Advantages
- Energy efficiency: The reflective white surface can reduce cooling costs by 10-30% compared to dark-colored roofing systems, making it ideal for DFW commercial buildings
- Strong seam integrity: Heat-welded seams are extremely durable and resist separation over time
- Chemical resistance: TPO holds up well against grease, oils, and common rooftop chemicals from HVAC systems
- Cost-effective: Generally less expensive to install than PVC while offering similar performance
- Flexibility: Handles building movement and thermal expansion well without cracking
TPO Considerations
- Thinner membranes (45 mil) may be less puncture-resistant; we recommend 60 mil or 80 mil for most commercial applications
- Relatively newer technology compared to EPDM, so the longest track records are around 25-30 years
- Quality varies significantly between manufacturers — choosing a reputable brand matters
What Is EPDM Roofing?
EPDM is a synthetic rubber roofing membrane that has been a staple of commercial roofing for over 50 years. Often called “rubber roofing,” EPDM is known for its durability, flexibility, and proven long-term performance.
EPDM comes in black and white versions, though black is far more common. The seams are typically bonded with adhesive or tape rather than heat-welded. EPDM is available in large sheets, which means fewer seams overall on large roof areas.
EPDM Advantages
- Proven track record: Over 50 years of real-world performance data; some EPDM roofs have lasted 30-40 years with proper maintenance
- Excellent weather resistance: Performs well in extreme heat, cold, and UV exposure — all relevant to North Texas conditions
- Hail resistance: The rubber membrane absorbs impact better than rigid materials, making it naturally resilient against hail
- Easy to repair: Patches and repairs are straightforward, and the material is forgiving to work with
- Large sheet sizes: Fewer seams mean fewer potential leak points on large commercial roofs
EPDM Considerations
- Black EPDM absorbs heat, which can increase cooling costs in the summer — a real factor in Texas
- Adhesive seams are generally not as strong or long-lasting as heat-welded seams
- The dark surface can accelerate thermal cycling stress on the building structure
- White EPDM is available but costs more and has a shorter track record than black
TPO vs. EPDM: Side-by-Side Comparison
Here is how the two systems stack up across the factors that matter most for DFW commercial building owners:
| Factor | TPO | EPDM |
|---|---|---|
| Installed Cost | $5.50-$8.50/sq ft | $4.50-$7.50/sq ft |
| Lifespan | 20-30 years | 25-40 years |
| Energy Efficiency | Excellent (reflective) | Poor (black) / Good (white) |
| Seam Strength | Excellent (heat-welded) | Good (adhesive/tape) |
| Hail Resistance | Good | Excellent |
| Puncture Resistance | Moderate to Good | Good |
| Repair Ease | Moderate | Easy |
| Track Record | 25-30 years of data | 50+ years of data |
| Best For | Energy savings, newer buildings | Large roofs, budget-conscious owners |
Which System Is Right for Your DFW Building?
The best choice depends on your specific building, budget, and priorities. Here are some general guidelines we share with our commercial clients:
Choose TPO if: You want to maximize energy savings (especially important for large, air-conditioned spaces like retail stores, offices, and warehouses in the Texas heat), your building has moderate foot traffic on the roof, or you are prioritizing the strongest possible seam performance.
Choose EPDM if: You are working with a tighter budget, your building has a very large roof area where fewer seams is a major advantage, you want a system with the longest proven track record, or your roof sees regular maintenance traffic and you want easy repairability.
In many cases, the right answer is not one-size-fits-all. The age of your building, existing insulation, roof access requirements, and local building codes all play a role. That is why we always recommend starting with a professional assessment.
Get a Free Commercial Roof Assessment
PROCO Roofing is a trusted commercial roofing contractor serving Fort Worth, Dallas, Grapevine, and the entire DFW metroplex. We install and service TPO, EPDM, PVC, modified bitumen, and metal roofing systems for commercial properties of all sizes — from retail centers and churches to schools, warehouses, and multifamily buildings.
Contact us for a free commercial roof assessment or call 833-467-7626. We will evaluate your current roof, discuss your options, and provide a transparent estimate with no pressure and no hidden costs.