Roofing materials
Flat & Low-Slope Roofing in Fort Worth, TX
TPO, EPDM, and modified bitumen systems for additions, porches, and commercial roofs
TPO, EPDM, and modified bitumen (also called torch-down) are the three main systems built for flat and low-slope roofs -- additions, porches, and full commercial or light-commercial roofs. This is a different job from a roof coating: a coating restores and extends the life of an existing membrane that's still structurally sound, while a new installation is a full system replacement for when the membrane itself has failed. EPDM (rubber) has the longest track record; TPO's white, reflective surface helps more with cooling costs; modified bitumen's multi-layer, torch-applied construction makes it the most puncture-resistant of the three, a real advantage on roofs that get regular foot traffic.
At a glance
Typical lifespan
EPDM: 20-30 years. TPO: 15-25 years. Modified bitumen: 15-25 years
Best for
Flat/low-slope sections under roughly a 2:12 pitch
Energy note
TPO's reflective white surface can meaningfully cut summer cooling costs
Good fit if
- Additions or porch sections with a flat roof
- Commercial and light-commercial buildings
- A membrane that's actually failed, not just aging on the surface
- Roofs with regular foot traffic (HVAC access, maintenance) -- modified bitumen's multi-layer build holds up best here
Worth knowing
- Not the same service as a roof coating -- if your existing membrane is still sound, a coating is usually the more cost-effective fix
- EPDM has the longer proven track record; TPO trades some of that history for better reflectivity and heat-welded seams
- Modified bitumen is torch-applied (or cold-applied on some systems) -- correct installation matters more here than with the other two, given the fire risk of an improperly handled torch
- Standing water on a poorly sloped roof shortens the life of any of the three systems -- drainage matters as much as the membrane itself
Common question
What's the difference between a new flat roof and a roof coating?
A coating restores and extends the life of an existing membrane that's still structurally sound. A new TPO, EPDM, or modified bitumen installation is a full system replacement, needed when the membrane itself has failed rather than just aged on the surface. We inspect first and tell you honestly which one you actually need -- see our roof coatings page if you're not sure which applies to you.
Comparing options?
Other Materials
Asphalt Shingle Roofing
The standard for most DFW homes -- wide style range, proven performance
Metal Roofing
Standing seam and metal panel systems built to outlast the house
Stone-Coated Steel Roofing
Metal durability with the look of tile, slate, or shake
Roof Coatings
Extend the life of a flat or low-slope roof without a full tear-off
Clay & Concrete Tile Roofing
Authentic Mediterranean and Southwestern style, built to last generations
Slate Roofing
Natural stone that can outlast the house it's on
We install all of these across our service areas.
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