1) Introduction: The Rhode Island “Freeze/Thaw” test
Rhode Island commercial roofs face a unique torture test. We can see 90 degree, humid summer days and then swing to 10 degree winter cold. That constant expansion and contraction is hard on any flat roof system.
Here is the pattern we see most often: many flat roof leaks do not start in the middle of the field membrane. They start at seams and details. As materials move, seams get stressed, adhesives age, and penetrations become weak points.
That is why choosing between TPO (white) and EPDM (black) is not just about color. In the Ocean State, it is about how the seams and details handle weather cycles year after year.
2) The contenders: TPO vs EPDM (the “black vs white” debate)
EPDM (the “old school” rubber)
EPDM has been used for decades and it is still a solid option in the right situation.
Pros: - Proven track record - Flexible in cold weather - Dark surface can absorb winter heat, which some owners prefer in heating-dominated climates like New England
Cons: - Seams are commonly glued or taped - Over time, UV exposure and aging can reduce adhesive performance
When seams weaken, water does not need a big opening. It needs a pathway. A small seam issue can turn into a recurring leak, especially around drains and transitions.
TPO (the “modern” choice)
TPO is a popular commercial membrane for a reason.
Pros: - White surface reflects summer heat, which can reduce rooftop temperatures and help lower cooling loads - Strong option for many commercial roof designs
The Mighty differentiator: heat-welded seams A properly heat-welded TPO seam is fused into a single piece of material. In many cases, the weld can be stronger than the sheet itself.
Why that matters in Rhode Island: - Freeze-thaw movement stresses seams - Restaurants, medical buildings, and multi-tenant properties often have many penetrations (vents, curbs, exhaust, HVAC) - Welded details can provide a tighter, more consistent seal around those penetrations when installed to specification
Verdict (practical, not hype): EPDM can be a great fit for simpler roofs with fewer penetrations and straightforward detailing. TPO can be a strong choice for complex roofs where seam integrity and welded detailing are a priority.
3) Installation wars: mechanically attached vs fully adhered
This is where many commercial roof quotes stop being apples-to-apples.
Mechanically attached (the cost-saver)
What it is: The membrane is fastened to the roof deck (or approved substrate) with plates and screws, typically in rows. Seams are then welded or sealed depending on the membrane.
Why owners choose it: - Faster installation - Often lower upfront cost
The risk in windier areas: In higher wind exposure areas (including coastal zones), a mechanically attached membrane can experience “flutter”. That movement can stress fasteners and details over time.
Fully adhered (the storm fighter)
What it is: The membrane is adhered directly to the insulation or cover board using approved adhesive systems.
Why owners buy it: - Reduced flutter - Often higher wind-uplift performance when designed and installed correctly
If your building is near the water or in a higher wind zone, a fully adhered system is often the method owners and insurers prefer because it reduces movement and can improve overall system performance.
4) The “secret” weapon: silicone restoration coatings (commercial roof coating RI)
Not every aging roof needs a full replacement.
Scenario: You have an older EPDM roof that is not actively leaking, but seams look tired, details are aging, and you want to reduce risk before the next storm season.
Solution: A silicone restoration coating can create a seamless, monolithic layer over an existing roof system (when the roof is a good candidate and properly prepared).
Why owners like it: - Lower cost than replacement in many cases - Extends service life - Creates a continuous surface that can reduce seam-related leak risk
Tax note (general information only): Some coating projects may be treated as maintenance rather than a capital improvement, which can change how costs are deducted. Always confirm with your CPA for your specific situation.
5) Local incentives: getting paid to upgrade
Rhode Island Energy and other programs may offer rebates for energy efficiency improvements.
During a reroof, owners sometimes qualify for incentives by: - Upgrading insulation (higher R-value) - Installing a “cool roof” surface (often a white membrane)
These programs change over time, but they are worth checking because many competitors never mention them.
6) Conclusion: the “watchdog” maintenance plan
Commercial roofs do not usually fail all at once. They fade away.
The material matters, but maintenance and documentation matter just as much. Small seam issues, aging penetrations, and drainage problems can be caught early and addressed before they become interior damage.
If you own or manage a commercial building in Rhode Island, ask about the Mighty Dog Watchdog Maintenance Program. Bi-annual inspections and clear reports can help extend roof life, protect warranties, and reduce surprise repairs.
Call/text (401) 425-4108 to schedule a commercial roof inspection.
Rhode Island Service Locations:
Ashaway, Barrington, Bradford, Bristol, Carolina, Central Falls, Charlestown, Chepachet, Clayville, Coventry, Cranston, Cumberland, East Greenwich, East Providence, Exeter, Forestdale, Foster, Glendale, Greene, Greenville, Harrisville,Hope,Hope Valley, Hopkinton, Jamestown, Johnston, Kenyon, Kingston, Lincoln, Little Compton, Manville, Mapleville, Middletown, Narragansett, Newport, North Kingstown, North Providence, North Scituate, North Smithfield, Oakland, Pascoag, Pawtucket, Portsmouth, Providence, Riverside, Rockville, Rumford, Saunderstown, Shannock, Scituate, Slatersville, Smithfield, Tiverton, Wakefield, Warren, Warwick, West Greenwich, West Kingston, West Warwick, Westerly, Wood River Junction, Woonsocket, Wyomin
FAQ
What is better for a flat roof in Rhode Island, TPO or EPDM?
It depends on the building, roof complexity, and goals. EPDM is proven and flexible in cold weather. TPO offers a reflective surface and heat-welded seams that can be a strong advantage on roofs with many penetrations.
What is the difference between mechanically attached and fully adhered TPO?
Mechanically attached systems use fasteners to secure the membrane and can be faster and lower cost. Fully adhered systems bond the membrane to the substrate, reducing flutter and often improving wind performance.
Are silicone roof coatings worth it?
When a roof is a good candidate, silicone coatings can extend roof life and reduce seam-related leak risk at a lower cost than full replacement. Proper preparation and inspection are critical.
Do commercial roof coatings qualify as a tax deduction?
Some projects may be treated differently for tax purposes depending on whether they are considered maintenance or a capital improvement. Confirm with your CPA.