If the roof has to come off, TPO is the value pick and PVC is the premium, chemical-resistant pick. If the existing roof is dry and sound, a fluid-applied restoration may extend it without a tear-off.
Pros and cons approved by the Structure team are being added to each system page. The right answer depends on the roof you have, not the one we would like to sell.
Side by side
| TPO | PVC | Fluid-applied | |
|---|---|---|---|
| What it is | Heat-welded white single-ply sheet | Heat-welded single-ply sheet with plasticizers | Reinforced, seamless fluid-applied membrane |
| Tear-off required | Often, or a re-cover | Often, or a re-cover | No |
| Fasteners | Commonly mechanically attached | Commonly mechanically attached | Membrane is adhered; project may still need penetrations |
| Seams | Welded seams | Welded seams | Seamless |
| Chemical / grease resistance | Good | Excellent | Depends on topcoat |
| Warranty | Manufacturer options | Manufacturer options | Varies by system; some renewable, subject to roof condition |
| Best for | New construction, full re-roofs on a budget | Restaurants, chemical exposure, long-life re-roofs | Sound existing roofs you want to extend without tear-off |
| Not for | Roofs that could still be restored | Tight budgets | Wet insulation or failed decks |
Pricing depends on roof size, condition, details and system selection, and is confirmed after an onsite assessment.
When we would pick each one
TPO
New buildings and full re-roofs where the existing roof is too far gone and budget matters. TPO roofing.
PVC
Restaurants, food processing and roofs exposed to grease or chemicals, or owners who want the longest single-ply life. PVC roofing.
Fluid-applied restoration
Aging but dry, structurally sound roofs where a tear-off would be expensive or disruptive. How fluid-applied systems work, and when restoration is the wrong call.
Quick answers
Is TPO or PVC better for Houston?
Both are white, reflective single-ply membranes that handle Texas heat well. PVC costs more but resists oils, grease and chemicals, which matters over restaurants and some industrial roofs. TPO is the most common value choice for general commercial roofs.
Can a fluid-applied system go over TPO or PVC?
In some cases, depending on the specific system, the membrane’s condition and the manufacturer’s requirements. The roof also needs to be dry and structurally sound.
Which options are mechanically fastened?
Many single-ply re-covers are mechanically attached through the existing roof. A fluid-applied membrane is adhered rather than fastened, though repairs, drainage work or drying vents on a project can still require penetrations.