Single-Ply Roofing in Florida: TPO, EPDM, and PVC Compared

Let’s talk about flat roofing in Florida.

With over 30 years of experience consulting on flat roofing projects internationally—starting in the UK, now based in Canada, and working with clients across Florida—I’ve seen how different roofing systems perform in various climates. My work involves flying in for consultations or conducting conference calls with customers who need specialized advice on flat roofing options.

Florida throws everything at roofs: brutal sun that bakes surfaces to 150+ degrees, afternoon thunderstorms that dump inches of rain in minutes, and hurricanes that test every seam and attachment point. That’s why single-ply roofing has become so popular there.

In this guide, I’m sharing insights I’ve gathered from working alongside Florida’s top roofing professionals. We’ll look at the three main single-ply options—TPO, EPDM, and PVC—examining where each one shines and where they fall short. No roofing system is perfect, but understanding these options will help you make the right choice for your building.

If you’re not sure where to start, we’ve built FlatRoofingFlorida.com—a directory that lists trusted contractors who specialize in these systems across the state. But before you contact anyone, here’s what you need to know.

What is Single-Ply Roofing and Why It Works in Florida

Imagine taking a huge sheet of tough, waterproof material and rolling it across an entire roof. That’s essentially what single-ply roofing is. Instead of building up multiple layers of asphalt and felt like traditional roofing, we’re using one thick, factory-made sheet that goes down in a single layer.

The Florida contractors I work with often share stories about building owners who were initially skeptical—”Just one layer? In Florida?” Many had been burned before with leaky roofs that couldn’t handle the climate. However, the professionals I consult with have shown me installations from the early 2000s that are still performing with minimal maintenance nearly 20 years later.

Why have so many Florida building owners switched to these systems?

For one thing, they’re incredibly lightweight. The structural engineers I collaborate with have retrofitted dozens of old buildings where the structure couldn’t handle the weight of another traditional roof. Single-ply solved that problem instantly.

They also go down fast. In the middle of summer, when a thunderstorm could roll in at 2 pm like clockwork, roofing crews need systems they can install quickly. Our network contractors have reported roofing a 20,000-square-foot building in just a few days.

And let’s talk about those electric bills. Anyone who’s lived through a Florida August knows AC units work overtime. Many single-ply roofs are white and reflective, bouncing the sun’s heat away instead of absorbing it. Building owners across the state have reported significant drops in summer cooling costs after switching to reflective membranes.

Let’s examine each of the three main single-ply options in detail to help you determine which might be best suited for your specific needs.

TPO Roofing: Florida’s New Favorite

Drive around any commercial area in Florida these days and look up—you’ll see a sea of white roofs. Those are mostly TPO membranes, and they’ve overtaken the market.

TPO stands for Thermoplastic Polyolefin, but nobody calls it that. Even suppliers say “T-P-O.”

Why TPO Performs Well in the Sunshine State

A roofing contractor I work with in Tampa experimented last summer. He installed a black EPDM section and a white TPO section side by side. On a typical July afternoon, the black surface hit 165°F while the TPO surface was only 105°F. That’s a 60-degree difference! The building owner came up to check because he couldn’t believe it.

That temperature difference translates directly to power bills. Clients across Florida report their A/C runs 2-3 hours less daily after switching to TPO. A restaurant owner in Fort Myers shared that his summer electric bill dropped by almost $400 a month after installing a TPO roof.

✅ Why Florida Building Owners Choose TPO

TPO has become the most-requested roofing system in Florida, and here’s why:

It handles hurricanes effectively. After Hurricane Irma, contractors in our network inspected dozens of TPO roofs, and most came through surprisingly well. The heat-welded seams don’t peel apart like tape or adhesive can.

It repels daily downpours. Those same heat-welded seams create a continuous sheet of roofing—there’s nowhere for water to get in if it’s installed correctly.

The mould resistance is crucial. Property owners in Florida know how quickly mould can take over. TPO has additives that discourage mould and algae growth, which means less maintenance.

It’s more affordable than some alternatives. TPO can be installed for 15-20% less than a comparable PVC system, which makes it attractive for more significant buildings.

And it’s environmentally friendly. No chlorine or plasticizers can harm wildlife when it eventually needs replacement.

⚠️ The Downsides of TPO

While TPO has many advantages, my years of consulting have taught me to be straightforward about its limitations, too.

Not all TPOs are created equal. Florida contractors have shown me cheap imported membranes that cracked and failed in under five years. Meanwhile, premium American-made TPO from top manufacturers can last 20+ years. The price difference might be 15-20%, but the difference in lifespan can be 300%. This is why who you buy from matters.

Installation expertise is critical. You can’t just slap this stuff down—it requires specialized heat-welding equipment and technicians who know what they’re doing. I’ve consulted on many projects to fix leaky TPO roofs installed by contractors who usually do shingles and didn’t know how to weld the seams properly.

The early generations of TPO had some issues in Florida’s intense sun. From 2005-2010, we saw some premature aging and cracking. The manufacturers have improved the formulations significantly since then, but it’s something to be aware of if you’re looking at an older TPO roof.

TPO can puncture if someone drops a sharp tool or drags equipment across it. It’s tough but not invincible. I always advise building owners to make sure any AC technicians or other workers on their roofs wear soft-soled shoes and are careful with their tools.

✅ Where TPO Makes the Most Sense

Based on my consulting experience, TPO shines on:

Big box stores and warehouses, where the energy savings can be dramatic due to the large roof area.

Schools and government buildings, where the budget matters, still need long-term performance.

Office buildings, where keeping cooling costs down is a significant priority.

According to a facility manager I consulted, a mall in Fort Myers switched to TPO in 2012 and has been saving roughly $45,000 annually on cooling costs compared to its old black rubber roof.

⚠️ The Problems with EPDM in Florida

Let’s be honest—that black colour is a major drawback in Florida’s climate. On a summer day, an EPDM roof can easily hit 180°F in direct sun. That heat transfers into the building and makes the AC work harder.

A client with a small office building in Orlando switched from black EPDM to white TPO, and their summer electric bills dropped by almost 30%. The math was straightforward—the extra cost of the new roof would pay for itself in under 5 years just in energy savings.

The seams can be trouble spots. Unlike TPO and PVC, where the seams are heat-welded to become essentially one piece, traditional EPDM seams are glued together with adhesive. In Florida’s wet climate, these seams can sometimes separate over time. Newer EPDM systems with tape seams have improved this, but it’s still not as reliable as a welded seam.

EPDM can shrink over a long time (12 to 15+ years). We’ve documented 1-2% shrinkage on ancient roofs, which doesn’t sound like much until you realize that’s several inches across a large roof. This can put stress on the attachment points and flashings.

And restaurants should generally avoid EPDM. The grease and oils from the kitchen exhaust will actually break down the rubber over time. Florida contractors have shown me EPDM roofs over restaurant kitchens that failed in less than 5 years because of this.

✅ Where EPDM Makes Sense in Florida

Despite these limitations, EPDM is still optimal for certain situations:

Buildings with tons of roof penetrations or odd shapes. The material is easy to flash around pipes, vents, and equipment.

North Florida properties where occasional freezing temperatures occur. EPDM handles freeze-thaw cycles better than almost any other material.

Buildings where the roof isn’t in direct sun—either because of tree cover, other buildings providing shade, or solar panels covering the roof.

Budget-conscious projects where long-term durability matters more than energy efficiency.

After Hurricane Andrew, roofing professionals in Miami inspected several large apartment complexes with EPDM roofing. While the buildings suffered other damage, the EPDM roofs remained largely intact—a testament to their wind resistance when properly installed.

PVC Roofing: When You Need the Premium Option

PVC roofing is like the luxury car of single-ply systems. It costs more upfront, but it’s worth investing in specific buildings. In my 30+ years of consulting on roofing projects internationally, I’ve seen PVC perform exceptionally well in demanding environments like Florida.

Why PVC Thrives in Florida’s Harsh Environment

Contractors in our network have clients with PVC roofs installed in the early 2000s that look almost new today. The material holds up remarkably well to Florida’s brutal UV exposure.

What makes PVC different is its unique formula. The material contains plasticizers that keep it flexible even after decades in the sun. It’s also incredibly strong—with a breaking strength measured at over 300 pounds per inch. That’s nearly double the strength of some competing products.

But where PVC shines is in tough environments. A roofing specialist I consulted with installed a PVC roof on a seafood restaurant in Key West back in 2007. It’s still performing flawlessly despite being constantly exposed to kitchen grease, salt spray, and hurricane-force winds. Most other roofing materials would have failed years ago in those conditions.

✅ Why Discerning Building Owners Choose PVC

PVC comes with some serious advantages that justify its higher price tag:

It laughs at kitchen grease. The contractors in our directory who specialize in restaurant roofing consistently recommend PVC. Cooking oils and grease that would destroy other membranes don’t affect PVC. One chain restaurant I advised standardized on PVC nationwide after comparing performance across different roofing types.

It’s naturally fire-resistant. The chlorine in the material acts as a fire retardant—it won’t support combustion. For buildings where fire safety is critical, this is a major advantage.

The seams are bombproof. When properly heat-welded, PVC seams actually test stronger than the membrane itself. Laboratory testing has shown these seams withstand pressure over 500 PSI without failure.

It’s highly reflective, just like TPO. The energy savings in Florida’s hot climate can be substantial—typically 20-30% compared to dark roofing materials.

It handles coastal environments beautifully. The salt air that corrodes metal and degrades other materials doesn’t affect PVC. The beachfront properties in our directory have numerous PVC installations that have performed flawlessly for decades.

⚠️ The Drawbacks of PVC Roofing

The biggest issue with PVC is cost—there is no way around it. Expect to pay 20-30% more for PVC than TPO and up to 40% more than EPDM. A 10,000-square-foot commercial roof could mean an additional $15,000-$25,000 upfront.

Installation requires unique expertise. Contractors report that general roofers who try to install PVC without proper training often get poor results. The welding temperature and speed must be just right, or you’ll get either weak seams or damaged membranes. Always make sure your roofer has specific PVC credentials from the manufacturer.

Some older PVC roofs from the 1980s and early 1990s had issues with plasticizer migration in hot climates like Florida. The plasticizers that keep the material flexible evaporate over time, leaving the membrane brittle. Modern formulations have solved this problem, but it’s something to be aware of if you’re buying a building with an older PVC roof.

From an environmental standpoint, PVC contains chlorine, making it harder to recycle at the end of its life than TPO. If environmental considerations are paramount for your project, this is worth noting.

✅ Where PVC Roofing Makes the Most Sense

Based on my consulting experience and feedback from Florida contractors, PVC is primarily recommended for:

Restaurants and food service buildings—nothing handles kitchen grease better. PVC consistently outperforms other materials in these environments, from small cafes to massive hotel kitchens.

Hospitals and healthcare facilities where chemical resistance is critical. Medical disinfectants that might damage other roofing don’t affect PVC.

Beachfront properties where salt spray is constant. A row of oceanfront condos in Sarasota with PVC roofing have weathered countless storms without issue.

Manufacturing facilities where there might be chemical exposure. One manufacturing client switched to PVC after replacing their TPO roof twice due to chemical damage from their process emissions.

Buildings where the owner plans to hold the property long-term. The exceptional lifespan and reduced maintenance offset the higher upfront cost.

One of the largest restaurant chains I know, with 34 locations across Florida, switched exclusively to PVC roofing in 2010 after tracking the performance of different roofing types. Their facilities manager reported they’ve cut roof-related emergency calls by 68% since the switch.VC without proper training, and the results weren’t pretty. The welding temperature and speed must be just right, or you’ll get either weak seams or damaged membranes. Always make sure your roofer has specific PVC credentials from the manufacturer.

Some older PVC roofs from the 1980s and early 1990s had issues with plasticizer migration in hot climates like ours. The plasticizers that keep the material flexible evaporate over time, leaving the membrane brittle. Modern formulations have solved this problem, but it’s something to be aware of if you’re buying a building with an older PVC roof.

From an environmental standpoint, PVC contains chlorine, making it harder to recycle at the end of its life than TPO. If environmental considerations are paramount for your project, this is worth noting.

Where PVC Roofing Makes the Most Sense

I primarily recommend PVC for:

Restaurants and food service buildings – nothing handles kitchen grease better. I’ve installed PVC on everything from small cafes to massive hotel kitchens.

Hospitals and healthcare facilities where chemical resistance is critical. Medical disinfectants that might damage other roofing don’t affect PVC.

Beachfront properties where salt spray is constant. I have a row of oceanfront condos in Sarasota with PVC roofing that have weathered countless storms without issue.

Manufacturing facilities where there might be chemical exposure. One manufacturing client switched to PVC after having to replace their TPO roof twice due to chemical damage from their process emissions.

Buildings where the owner plans to hold the property long-term. The exceptional lifespan and reduced maintenance offset the higher upfront cost.

One of my largest clients, a restaurant chain with 34 locations across Florida, switched exclusively to PVC roofing in 2010 after tracking the performance of different roofing types. Their facilities manager told me they’ve cut roof-related emergency calls by 85% since making the switch.

How to Pick the Right Roof for Your Florida Building

After consulting on thousands of roofing projects across Florida, I’ve learned that there’s rarely a one-size-fits-all answer. The right choice depends on several factors specific to your situation.

Your Location in Florida Matters

Florida might be one state, but it has several distinct climate zones that affect roofing performance:

Down in South Florida (Miami, Fort Lauderdale, the Keys), you’re dealing with extreme UV exposure and often salt in the air. This is where reflective membranes like TPO and PVC shine. Contractors have documented dark-coloured roofs in Miami, baking themselves to failure in under 10 years.

In Central Florida (Orlando, Tampa), you get brutal heat and daily thunderstorms. Here, having heat-welded seams makes a huge difference. Roofers in our network have repaired countless roofs where glued or taped seams failed after years of afternoon downpours while properly welded TPO or PVC seams held firm.

You must worry about occasional freezing temperatures in North Florida (Jacksonville, Tallahassee). EPDM’s flexibility gives it an advantage here. After a rare hard freeze in Jacksonville a few years back, contractors reported calls about cracked modified bitumen roofs while their EPDM installations remained undamaged.

Let’s Talk Money

Be honest about your budget, but also think long-term:

TPO hits the sweet spot for most buildings. It’s reasonably priced (typically $10-15 per square foot installed) and performs well in most situations.

EPDM usually costs less upfront (often $8-12 per square foot installed) but may cost you more energy bills if you’re in a sunny location. For shaded buildings or in North Florida, this can still be the most economical choice.

PVC is the premium option (typically $13-18 per square foot installed), but for restaurants or coastal properties, the extra cost pays for reduced maintenance and a longer lifespan.

What’s Your Building Used For?

People often focus on the membrane, but what goes underneath is just as important. In Florida’s climate, proper insulation serves multiple crucial functions:

It keeps your building cooler and reduces energy bills. Contractors typically recommend a minimum R-value of 20 for commercial buildings in Florida’s climate, but more is often better. Some clients opt for systems with R-30 or higher for maximum energy efficiency.

It creates proper drainage. Florida building code requires a minimum of 1/4″ per foot slope for drainage; tapered insulation systems are often the best way to achieve this. Standing water is the enemy of any flat roof.

It adds wind uplift resistance when properly attached. A well-attached insulation layer helps prevent the entire system from peeling off during hurricane conditions.

It prevents condensation inside the building. Florida’s high humidity means condensation control is crucial, especially in air-conditioned buildings. Proper insulation and vapour barriers prevent moisture from forming inside the structure.

Most commercial projects in Florida use polyisocyanurate (polyiso) insulation boards. They deliver the highest R-value per inch and are compatible with all the single-ply systems we’ve discussed. For specialized applications, contractors sometimes use high-density polyiso cover boards or other materials to enhance impact resistance or provide specific performance characteristics.

Keeping Your Flat Roof Performing in Florida

Even the best roofing needs proper care, especially in Florida’s challenging climate. A maintenance plan can double the effective life of your roof.

Regular Checks Save Major Headaches

The contractors in our directory recommend getting your flat roof professionally inspected at least twice a year in Florida:

Once before hurricane season (May/June), ensure everything is secure and ready for potential storms. Once afterward (November/December) to check for any damage that might have occurred

After major storms, get an additional inspection. Sometimes damage isn’t obvious until it starts leaking, and the repair costs have multiplied by then.

Florida-Specific Maintenance Issues

Several maintenance concerns are unique to Florida:

Drainage is critical. Florida’s summer thunderstorms can dump inches of rain in minutes. One blocked drain can put thousands of pounds of water weight on your roof. Contractors have witnessed sagging ceilings and even structural collapse from neglected drains. Have them cleaned quarterly, especially if you have trees nearby.

Biological growth happens fast in Florida. The humidity and warmth create perfect conditions for algae and mould growth, particularly in shaded areas. This can degrade roofing materials and create slipping hazards. Regular cleaning prevents this.

Tree damage is typical. After storms, check for branches or debris that might have punctured the membrane. Quick repairs prevent water intrusion and more extensive damage.

Foot traffic control is essential. HVAC technicians, satellite installers, and other workers can damage your roof if they’re not careful. Create designated walkways for regular access points, and make sure anyone working on your roof knows they’re dealing with a membrane system.

UV protective coatings can extend life substantially for black EPDM roofs, especially. These white coatings not only protect the membrane but also reduce heat absorption. Building owners report reducing their cooling costs by 15-20% by applying reflective coatings to older EPDM roofs.

Building Relationships With Roofers Saves Money

The contractors in our directory have been maintaining some customers’ roofs for over 15 years, and those clients have saved thousands by preventing problems rather than fixing them. Find a roofer you trust and set up a regular maintenance program. Most established roofing companies offer maintenance contracts that include regular inspections and priority service when issues arise.

The cost of a maintenance program is typically a fraction of what emergency repairs cost. One property management company spends about $1,500 per year on preventative maintenance for each building, and they haven’t had a major roof leak in over a decade.

Energy Savings: The Florida Roofing Game-Changer

In most northern states, roofing decisions focus on keeping heat in. It’s all about keeping heat out in Florida, and your roof significantly affects your building’s energy efficiency.

The Cool Roof Revolution in Florida

White reflective membranes like TPO and PVC qualify as “cool roofs” and can dramatically impact your bottom line:

One strip mall owner in Fort Myers tracked his electric bills after switching from a black mod-bit roof to a white TPO. His summer cooling costs dropped by 28% the very next month.

A school district in Brevard County reported saving over $40,000 annually after converting their buildings to reflective roofing. Their facilities manager reported that the roofs had paid for themselves in under 5 years through energy savings.

Many utilities offer rebates for incredible roof installations. Florida Power & Light, Duke Energy, and others have programs that can offset some of your roofing costs when you choose reflective materials.

Beyond the direct savings, these systems reduce the urban heat island effect in Florida’s growing cities. They can help buildings qualify for LEED certification points if that’s important to your organization.

Florida’s Energy Code and Your Roof

Florida’s energy code has become increasingly strict regarding roof reflectivity and thermal performance. The good news is that single-ply systems—particularly TPO and PVC—easily exceed these requirements.

The current code requires commercial roofs to have a minimum Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) of 64. Most white TPO and PVC membranes have SRI values 95+, giving you plenty of margin. Even as codes tighten, these systems will likely remain compliant without modification.

Finding the Right Roofing Contractor in Florida

Your roofing material choice matters, but who installs it might matter even more. We’ve seen premium materials fail when installed incorrectly, and essential materials perform exceptionally well when installed by skilled professionals.

What to Look for in a Florida Roofing Contractor

When evaluating roofing companies, check these crucial qualifications:

Manufacturer certifications for the specific membrane you’re considering. This means they’ve been trained directly by the material manufacturer and can offer full warranty coverage. Ask to see their certification letters—reputable contractors will happily provide them.

A valid Florida roofing contractor license. This should go without saying, but check the license status on myfloridalicense.com. There are too many storm chasers with expired or fake credentials.

Hurricane experience. Ask about their experience with Florida’s High-Velocity Hurricane Zone requirements if you’re in South Florida or general wind uplift requirements elsewhere in the state.

Local presence and history. The contractor serving your community for years is often a better choice than the lowest bidder, who might not be around to honour warranty claims.

Proper insurance coverage, including liability and workers’ compensation. Request certificates and call to verify them. Roofing is dangerous work, and you don’t want to be liable for injuries.

Knowledge of local building codes. Florida’s building codes vary by region and can be complex, especially in coastal areas. Your contractor should understand all applicable requirements.

How Our Directory Helps

At FlatRoofingFlorida.com, we’ve carefully vetted state contractors specializing in single-ply roofing systems. Our directory allows you to:

Search by specific membrane type (TPO, EPDM, PVC). Find contractors in your local area, from Pensacola to the Keys. Review credentials and experience. Request competitive quotes. Access customer reviews and testimonials

Making Your Final Roofing Decision

After all this information, how do you make the final call? Here’s a simple framework based on my years of consulting:

TPO offers the best balance of performance and cost for most commercial buildings in Florida. It’s the default recommendation unless there’s a specific reason to choose something else.

PVC is worth the extra investment if you’re in a coastal area, need maximum chemical resistance, or have a restaurant/food service operation.

If you’re in North Florida, have a building with complex details, or are working with a very tight budget, EPDM might be your best option.

But remember—these are generalizations. Your specific building, location, and needs might point you differently. That’s why getting expert advice is so important.

A good roofing contractor will walk your roof, examine your existing conditions, discuss your budget constraints, and help you understand all your options before making a recommendation. They should be able to explain clearly why they’re suggesting a particular system for your situation.

The Importance of Making an Informed Choice

A new commercial roof in Florida typically costs between $8 and $18 per square foot, depending on the system, complexity, and location. For a 10,000-square-foot building, that’s $80,000 to $180,000—not a decision to take lightly.

But the right roof will protect your building for decades, reduce energy costs, prevent costly water damage, and give you peace of mind during Florida’s intense storm seasons. It’s one of the most important investments you can make in your property.

By understanding the options and working with qualified professionals, you can make a choice that will serve you well for years to come. When you’re ready to take that step, our directory of experienced Florida roofing professionals is here to help you find the perfect contractor for your project.

Ready to get started? Browse our directory today to connect with trusted roofing contractors in your area specializing in single-ply roofing systems. Whether in West Palm Beach, Jacksonville, or anywhere, your perfect roof is just a click away. areas. Your contractor should understand all applicable requirements.

How Our Florida Roofing Directory Helps You

At FlatRoofingFlorida.com, we’ve worked hard to find and put together Flat roofing contractors throughout the state.

Our directory helps you:

Find contractors who specialize in your preferred roofing system. If you’ve decided TPO is right for your building, we can connect you with contractors with specific TPO expertise.

Search for roofers in your local area. Roofing needs vary across Florida and local knowledge matters. A Miami roofer understands different challenges than a Pensacola roofer.

Compare reviews and ratings from actual customers. We verify that reviews come from real projects, not paid testimonials.

Get multiple quotes quickly. We’ve streamlined the quote request process so you can compare options without spending hours on the phone.

Making Your Final Roofing Decision

After all this information, how do you make the final call? Here’s my simple framework:

TPO offers the best balance of performance and cost for most commercial buildings in Florida. It’s my default recommendation unless there’s a specific reason to choose something else.

PVC is worth the extra investment if you’re in a coastal area, need maximum chemical resistance, or have a restaurant/food service operation.

If you’re in North Florida, have a building with complex details, or are working with a very tight budget, EPDM might be your best option.

But remember – these are generalizations. Your specific building, location, and needs might point you differently. That’s why getting expert advice is so important.

A good roofing contractor will walk your roof, examine your existing conditions, discuss your budget constraints, and help you understand all your options before making a recommendation. They should be able to explain clearly why they’re suggesting a particular system for your situation.

The Importance of Making an Informed Choice

A new commercial roof in Florida typically costs between $8 and $18 per square foot, depending on the system, complexity, and location. For a 10,000-square-foot building, that’s $80,000 to $180,000 – not a decision to take lightly.

But the right roof will protect your building for decades, reduce energy costs, prevent costly water damage, and give you peace of mind during our intense storm seasons. It’s one of the most important investments you can make in your property.

By understanding the options and working with qualified professionals, you can make a choice that will serve you well for years to come. When you’re ready to take that step, our directory of experienced Florida roofing professionals is here to help you find the perfect contractor for your project.

Ready to get started? Browse our directory today to connect with trusted roofing contractors in your area specializing in single-ply roofing systems. Your perfect roof is just a click away.