TPO and EPDM Roofing for Low-Slope Areas
Porches, additions, flat or low-slope sections and some commercial-style roofs need a system designed for their actual slope and drainage. ARS evaluates the structure before choosing an appropriate membrane assembly.
Understand TPO and EPDM
TPO: ARS offers a fully adhered Carlisle Sure-Weld TPO membrane system, with insulation and details specified for the actual roof. It uses heat-welded seams when properly installed. The material thickness, attachment and roof assembly should be explicit in the proposal.
EPDM: A durable synthetic rubber membrane used in low-slope applications. It uses system-compatible adhesives, seam tapes and flashing components. It is not interchangeable with TPO, so product details and warranty eligibility must match the chosen system.
What We Evaluate
Drainage & Ponding
Slope, drain locations, scuppers, gutters and the way water leaves the roof.
Insulation & Substrate
Deck condition, insulation needs, moisture, and compatibility of existing layers.
Penetrations & Edges
Parapet and wall flashing, roof edges, skylights, vents and any rooftop equipment requiring coordination.
Fully Adhered Means the Assembly Is Specified
For TPO, ARS commonly proposes a fully adhered membrane with insulation appropriate to the project. The correct insulation thickness, perimeter and penetration details, manufacturer-compatible components and sequencing must be evaluated for each building.
Where roof-mounted HVAC units, solar equipment or other mechanical systems are present, their safe access, protection and any required specialist work need to be written into the scope. Existing materials can only remain when conditions and the selected assembly allow it.
Compare Low-Slope Quotes Fairly
Ask which membrane, manufacturer, thickness, insulation, seams, deck repairs, flashings, drainage corrections and warranty documents are included. An inexpensive quote that omits critical edge and penetration details can be a false economy.
Our team can inspect the roof and prepare project-specific options. Request a low-slope roofing consultation; for steep-slope shingle areas, see our roof replacement process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use asphalt shingles on any low-pitch roof?
No. Shingle manufacturers specify minimum slopes and special underlayment requirements. Some low-slope areas need a membrane system instead.
Do TPO and EPDM have the same seams?
No. Their attachment, seaming and flashing methods differ. The written proposal should specify the full compatible system.
Can an existing membrane stay beneath a new roof?
Sometimes existing materials may be retained, but only after evaluating moisture, layers, substrate, compatibility and manufacturer requirements.