Q: How Many Coats Do I Need To Use To Repair My Rvs Roof
Not as many as you think, since less is truly more when it comes to sealing up cracks in your RVs roof. If youre doing a complete coating, the number of coats it takes to do that will vary depending on the product type youre using, and also on the type of RV you have. For instance, urethane and acrylic coatings require the use of a primer, as well as several coats overall.
What Is Dicor Lap Sealant
Ideally suited for aftermarket use, the lap sealant is one of the highest volume products sold in RV stores today. Creates a secure, secondary seal along the roof’s edges, air vents, vent pipes and screw heads. Adheres firmly to aluminum, mortar, wood, vinyl, galvanized metal, fiberglass and concrete.
What Is The Best Coating To Use For An Aged Tpo Roof
TPO roofing has been known to be one of the hardest, most stubborn substrates to adhere to. Most roof coating manufacturers require an initial primer or etching rinse to be done before applying a base coat to the TPO membrane. Unfortunately, this adds additional labor time and costs to the roof coating project. National Coatings has made it a point to focus a majority of their efforts on providing durable, waterproofing solution to the roofing community that surpass their competition. With this goal in mind, National Coatings created the AcryShield A502 base coat, which DIRECTLY adheres to aged or failing TPO roofs without an additional primer or etching rinse.
The AcryShield A502 offers the best solution in the roofing industry for restoring a TPO roof because of its ability to tenaciously and directly adhesion to the TPO membrane. The A502 base coat eliminates the need for a costly roof replacement, lowers project costs and increases job efficiencies. There is no need to capture caustic contaminated water from the primers and etching rinses, which a majority of municipalities require. This provides safer work conditions and is better for the environment.
To find out more about using the AcryShield A502 water-borne base coat for your next TPO roof restoration project, download our roof maintenance brochure for single-ply or our roof restoration brochure for single-ply.
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Repair Options If Your Tpo Roof Has More Than 25% Saturation
After the infrared inspection is complete, its determined that the roof has excessive saturation. In this situation, a silicone restoration membrane system isnt beneficial. The roof is in too bad of shape to restore.
The only choice you unfortunately have is to remove all the TPO and insulation, revealing the roofing deck.
Now you can install a new TPO system. But after what happened last time, it might be cost-effective to try a different roofing system.
One thats recommended is a spray foam roofing system.
Why?
- Spray foam has the greatest r-value per square inch of thickness of any roofing system
- Spray foam is a renewable roofing system. After 10-20 years, you can recoat the roof and keep the warranty going
- Spray foam is a seamless system, eliminating a common area where leaks occur
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Depending on if its a mechanically attached or fully-adhered TPO roof, the glues/adhesives used to adhere the membrane to the substrate does have an odor. To people who dont install it on a daily basis, it may smell toxic. Manufacturers do have a low VOC adhesive that has a reduced amount of solvent in it. That does reduce the odor involved during the application, but it does not completely eliminate the odors involved in the adhesives. Mechanically attached typically require very little adhesive, if any. There are cleaners/primers that are required with either, but only during the installation. The odors do not stick around.
David Fontaine
Tpo Roofing: Everything You Need To Know
If youve seen a bright white roof, then you may be familiar with TPO roofing. As one of the most common roof types of big commercial facilities, TPO has some of the best energy savings for single-ply membrane roofing!
Here at West Roofing Systems, weve been installing Single-Ply Membrane Roofing for over 40 years.
In this article, we cover everything you need to know about TPO roofing.
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Rv Roof Sealant & Coating Pricing
- Under $15: Youll find mainly roof sealant products at this price point. The quality of the formulations varies quite a bit, but its possible to find good quality at a great price. Packages will also be smaller than at other price points.
- $15 to $40: The mid-range is home to a wide variety of products, from sealants to coatings, in a number of different formulations. The quality is usually good to very good, but still, keep an eye out for the brand youre buying from.
- $40 and up: Complete roof coating kits come at this price point, as well as a couple of pricier formulation-only options. Top quality comes at a bit of a higher price, but youll get what you paid for. Durable silicones tend to be in this price range.
High Reflectivity Cool Roofing Systems
When applied in white, our protective roof coatings have an incredibly high reflectance rating of 87%. The reflective roof coating shields the TPO system from harmful UV exposure while keeping the roof cooler, leading to energy cost savings. Silicone roofing solutions for commercial buildings also offer excellent solar reflectance.
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Plates Fasteners & Tools
Our plates and fasteners are used to mechanically attach the UltraPly TPO membrane, roofing system and/or insulation boards.
Please, also discover our range of tools to ensure a quality UltraPly TPO installation.
HD Seam Plates
Specifically designed for the mechanical attachment of UltraPly TPO membranes. They are used in combination with the Firestone All Purpose or Heavy Duty Fasteners.
All Purpose and Heavy Duty Fasteners
Specifically designed for the mechanical attachment of the UltraPly TPO membrane and roofing insulation to steel, wood and concrete decks.
Insulation Fastening Plates
Designed for attaching insulation boards to the structure.
Metal and Coiled Metal Batten Strips
Designed for the mechanical attachment of the UltraPly TPO roofing membranes and flashing pieces, as per Firestone specifications and details.
Termination Bar
Aluminium profile in C-shape that is designed for attachment and termination of the UltraPly TPO membrane against upstands with a smooth and even finishing surface such as concrete, steel, etc.
Spray Gun and hose
Professional spray gun with extension to be used in combination with the 4.0 m rubber hose. They are specifically designed to spray Firestone sprayable bonding adhesives
QuickScrubber pad and handle
Used for the application of the Single-Ply QuickPrime primer.
Silicone rubber roller
Jm Tpo Round Split Pipe Boot
Use: A prefabricated, reinforced 60 mil JM TPO, roundshaped 1″ to 6″ split-pipe boot for flashing application. Pipe boots minimize the need for field fabrication. Custom sizes and colors are available upon request. Contact your JM representative for minimum order quantity and lead time.
Material: JM TPO 60 mil reinforced membrane, with one of the widest weld windows, is factory fabricated into a onepiece round split-pipe boot.
Color: White
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Tpo Roofing Systems 101
Short for thermoplastic polyolefin, TPO is a single-ply roofing membrane that offers excellent performance at a cost-effective price. Heat-welded seams provide superior strength. TPO’s long-term heat, UV, and natural fungal resistance, plus flexibility without need for plasticizers also make TPO a reliable low-slope roofing system.
What Causes Tpo Roofs To Fail Prematurely
Most problems that arise on TPO roofs originate around the seams and flashings. This is mostly due to exposure and the natural expansion and contraction of the roof structure as internal and external temperatures fluctuate.
Over time, the excess movement causes seams and flashings to pull apart. As a result, tiny openings begin to form in the roof surface enabling water to enter the roofing assembly.
Excessive heat loads and improper installation can further compound this problem.
Failing seam
Hail damage
As a single-layer roofing membrane, TPO is also susceptible to sudden damage caused by hail, wind-driven debris, equipment additions, and trade damage.
Lack of general maintenance is also a common contributor to the rapid declineand eventual failureof a TPO roofing system.
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The Installation Of Tpo Roofing
For an average size commercial roof , the installation of a TPO system should take no longer than 12 weeks, however, if the existing substrate and insulation must be torn off and replaced, this process could take considerably longer.
Many other factors can affect the duration of a TPO installation as well, including roof size, construction/complexity of the roof, number of penetrations, installation method, inclement weather, etc.
Below, we break down the installation process for TPO roofs.
Repair Options If Your Tpo Roof Has Less Than 25% Saturation
After the infrared survey is complete, its determined that the roof doesnt have much saturation. If your roof is under 25% saturated, then what can be performed is a silicone restoration membrane system.
What will happen during a silicone restoration membrane installation is:
- The saturated areas will be removed and replaced with similar material
- The entire field of the roof will be power washed and cleaned
- The seams of the TPO roof will be strengthened and reinforced
- Then silicone coating will be applied to the entire field of the roof
- Then a new 10-20-year warranty will be granted
Heres a video showing a silicone restoration membrane installation from start to finish:
Another scenario that happens is that although theres less than 25% saturation, the seams are in too bad of condition to restore with a silicone restoration system.
In this case, if theres only one roofing system in place, is to install a cover board over the TPO roof, cut the flashings off, and then install a spray foam roofing system. This will save you money from completely tearing off the existing roof and installing a new TPO system.
If you already have two roofing layers and the seams are in too bad of a condition to restore, youll need to remove all the TPO and install new TPO, or a new roofing system.
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What Is Your Roof Material
While most RVs have rubber roofs, there are other options. For example, some RVs have metal roofs and even fiberglass roofs. Some different types of RV roofs will require a different RV roof sealant.
Using the incorrect sealant on your RV roof can damage the existing seals and pose a larger problem. If youre concerned about using the wrong type of sealant, contact your manufacturer. They can probably tell you which sealant they recommend for your specific RV.
Another Option: Spray Foam Roofing
Spray polyurethane foam is a great alternative for TPO roofs. It is a highly durable and energy-efficient roofing solution with the greatest R-value of any other roofing material.
Spray foam systems are applied in liquid form directly to roof substrates. As the foam cures, it hardens to form an incredibly dense, yet lightweight insulation membrane. The foam layer is then top coated with an elastomeric roof coating to protect it from the suns UV rays.
SPF is considered both a re-cover and replace option as it can be installed directly over existing TPO membranes or used as a replacement roofing system.
Additionally, SPF roofs can be recoated numerous times throughout their lifespans.
Recommended reading:Spray Foam Roofing: The Complete Guide
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Pros And Cons Of Tpo Roofing
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If you are looking to install a single ply roofing membrane that will be energy efficient and are evaluating your options, consider TPO roofing. TPO is touted to have the benefits of two of its direct competitors EPDM and PVC roofs, but without the drawbacks and extra costs.
This means that a TPO roof is as UV-resistant and as heat-resistant as EPDM, and as heat-weldable as PVC. As any roofing material, TPO also has its disadvantages and shortcomings that are primarily due to the fact that TPO is a fairly new roofing material on the market and research still continues to find the most durable and long lasting product formulation.
Before purchasing a TPO membrane for your home or commercial building, carefully consider all the pros and cons of TPO roofing.
We recommend that you read our overview of MRCA TPO Advisory which it has issued for commercial roofing contractors, and what it means for building owners.
What is TPO?
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The TPO membrane was first introduced to the roofing market in the early 1990s as a more economical and efficient alternative that was thought to replace PVC roofing products. TPO is a single ply roofing system that consisting of a thermoplastic polyolefin membrane. This membrane is composed of three layers:
1. TPO polymer base.
2. polyester-reinforced fabric center .
3. thermoplastic polyolefin compounded top ply.
Adhesive & Cleaning Agents
Our adhesives and cleaning agents are designed for bonding and cleaning the UltraPly TPO membrane.
Bonding Adhesive BA-2012
Solvent-based contact adhesive specifically designed for bonding UltraPly TPO membranes to approved insulations, in addition to wood, metal, masonry and other acceptable substrates.
Bonding Adhesive BA-2012 S/TF
Sprayable solvent-based contact adhesive specifically designed for bonding UltraPly TPO membranes to approved insulations, in addition to wood, metal, masonry and other acceptable substrates.
UltraPly TPO Bonding Adhesive
Solvent-based contact adhesive designed for bonding UltraPly TPO roofing membranes and UltraPly TPO Unsupported Flashings to approved insulation boards, wood, masonry, metal and other acceptable substrates.
Splice Wash
Designed to clean and prepare UltraPly TPO membranes, flashings and accessories before splicing or welding.
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Check Your Damage Level
Theres a difference between dealing with extensive damage or a small crack in your sealant. Examine not only the damaged area but the rest of the seals on your RV roof. While youre repairing damage, youll already be up on the roof and have the tools to address any other areas before they become issues.
The Benefits Of Roof Restoration
Roof coating systems provide a seamless and watertight membrane and are proven to stop leaks, extend life, reduce energy costs, and improve sustainability. Best of all, roof restoration cost about half as much as conventional roof tear-offs and replacements. It also provides minimal interruption during installation.
Additionally, most roof coating manufacturers offer a variety of long-term labor and material warranty options.
For a more in-depth look at the many benefits of commercial roof restoration, .
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Densdeck Stormx Prime Roof Board
Meets the requirements of ASTM C 1177
Very Severe Hail: Achieves FM ‘VSH’ approval with adhered 60 or 80 mil JM TPO membrane and standard JM TPO membrane adhesives when 4’x4′ panels are adhered in low rise foam adhesive ribbons, 12″ O.C. min.
Enhanced Face Mat: Coated fiberglass facer ideal for fully adhered systems provides a broader compatibility and higher performance with roofing adhesives.
Fire Performance: FM Class 1 for fire barrier requirements and UL Class A unlimited slope with excellent surface burning characteristics. 5/8″ thickness meets the requirements of Type X per ASTM C 1177.
Jm Tpo Peel And Stick 6 Inch Reinforced Termination Strip
Use: To secure the field membrane at any angle change greater than 2 in/ft . JM TPO 6″ RTS can be used in lieu of fastening through the field membrane with screws and plates at angle changes.
Materials: 45 mil thick reinforced TPO membrane with 30 mil thick, factory-applied peel and stick adhesive tape.
Color: White
Use: Used to seal uneven penetrations through the membrane that are difficult to flash. The penetration pan is comprised of two pieces that allow for positioning around objects to be flashed. A welding tab is included to seal the penetration pan once positioned.
Material: Two-piece molded TPO pocket with a rigid vertical wall and preformed flange.
Color: White
Use: A smooth, cone-shaped boot, for traditional or split-pipe flashing applications to securely seal the penetration. Pipe boots eliminate the need for field fabrication.
Material: Flexible, smooth, non-reinforced TPO cone-shaped boot with preformed flange.
Colors: White Grey and Tan
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Eternabond Tape Micro Sealant
About: Eternabond is a tape with a very sticky grey sealant on the back that creates a strong bond with all roofing materials. While not recommended to seal an entire roof because some places cannot use tape, we recommend every RVer carry a spare roll of this stuff.
While not the most cost-effective this tape is very versatile and can be used in an emergency for a quick fix. We have used this stuff to seal up the underbelly of the RV as well as sidewall repairs.
- 4″ x 50′ Foot Contin ROLL of authentic Eternabond repair tape.
- Bonds to surfaces and stops leaks.
- Use on: EPDM, TPO, most PVC, CSPE/Hypalon, CPE, SBS, APP…
Sealant Type: High Strength Micro Bond Tape Sealant
Best For: All roof types, as long as its clean and dry.
What Are The Benefits Of Tpo Roofs
Other than being among the least expensive materials available on the market, TPO roofing membranes are heat reflective and energy efficient. Being white on top, the TPO roof reflects the suns UV rays. Indoor heat buildup is reduced, and energy usage dramatically drops in summer.
Installing TPO roofs is also much easier than traditional roofing systems. Adhesives may be used, or the TPO roof can be directly attached to the roof deck. It can also be heat-welded around chimneys.
Flexibility is an advantage of TPO roofs, as it resists corrosion.
Since TPO roofing systems are strong, they resist punctures, tears as well as dirt buildup. Mildew and algae seldom grow on TPO roofs, which reduces the need for frequent pressure washing. These are reasons that the TPO roof requires minimal cleaning.
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