TPO ROOF CLEANING
Protect the roof and protect the warranty
TPO roofs are tough and widely used on commercial buildings, but they are not invincible. Using the wrong chemicals or too much pressure can damage the membrane and may risk the warranty.
NO BLEACH ON TPO ROOFS
Most TPO manufacturers do not recommend chlorine bleach or other harsh chemicals on their roofs. Harsh chemicals can dry out the membrane, cause discoloration, weaken seams, and may void warranty coverage.
SAFE CLEANERS FOR TPO ROOFS
Use chemicals that are effective but safe for delicate single-ply membranes. From Front 9 Restoration, some of the products professionals use and trust include:f9
• F9 Double Eagle Cleaner/Degreaser/Neutralizer – a multipurpose cleaner and degreaser that also helps neutralize surfaces.f9
• F9 BARC – strong cleaner for rust, battery acid stains, and heavy contaminants.powerwashstore.com
• F9 Efflorescence and Calcium Remover – buffered acid cleaner to safely remove mineral deposits and hard water stains when diluted properly.f9
• F9 Groundskeeper – industrial maintenance cleaner to help cut through contaminants in low-pressure applications.f9
Even with pro-grade F9 products, always test a small, inconspicuous area first and follow proper dilution and application instructions. These formulas are powerful cleaners but must be used with care on roof membranes to avoid damage.
PRESSURE SETTINGS ON TPO
You are cleaning a membrane, not concrete. Too much pressure can cut, lift, or stretch seams. Keep washing pressure below 600 PSI and use at least a 25-degree tip. Keep the wand moving at all times and avoid pointing high pressure directly at seams or flashings.
BASIC CLEANING PROCESS
WHAT TO AVOID
• No bleach or strong chlorine mixes.
• No solvent-based cleaners.
• No abrasive tools or wire brushes.
• No turbo nozzles.
• No pressure over 600 PSI.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Every TPO manufacturer has its own written maintenance guidelines. Always review the specific roof warranty and cleaning instructions before you begin. Following the right process keeps the roof looking good and helps protect the warranty.
Brought to you by PressureWashingInstitute.org
Note: Front 9’s “F9 Cookbook” provides detailed processes for which product to use for specific stains and how to dilute and apply each safely. It’s a professional resource that helps avoid over-cleaning or damaging surfaces.jracenstein.com
Protect the roof and protect the warranty
TPO roofs are tough and widely used on commercial buildings, but they are not invincible. Using the wrong chemicals or too much pressure can damage the membrane and may risk the warranty.
NO BLEACH ON TPO ROOFS
Most TPO manufacturers do not recommend chlorine bleach or other harsh chemicals on their roofs. Harsh chemicals can dry out the membrane, cause discoloration, weaken seams, and may void warranty coverage.
SAFE CLEANERS FOR TPO ROOFS
Use chemicals that are effective but safe for delicate single-ply membranes. From Front 9 Restoration, some of the products professionals use and trust include:f9
• F9 Double Eagle Cleaner/Degreaser/Neutralizer – a multipurpose cleaner and degreaser that also helps neutralize surfaces.f9
• F9 BARC – strong cleaner for rust, battery acid stains, and heavy contaminants.powerwashstore.com
• F9 Efflorescence and Calcium Remover – buffered acid cleaner to safely remove mineral deposits and hard water stains when diluted properly.f9
• F9 Groundskeeper – industrial maintenance cleaner to help cut through contaminants in low-pressure applications.f9
Even with pro-grade F9 products, always test a small, inconspicuous area first and follow proper dilution and application instructions. These formulas are powerful cleaners but must be used with care on roof membranes to avoid damage.
PRESSURE SETTINGS ON TPO
You are cleaning a membrane, not concrete. Too much pressure can cut, lift, or stretch seams. Keep washing pressure below 600 PSI and use at least a 25-degree tip. Keep the wand moving at all times and avoid pointing high pressure directly at seams or flashings.
BASIC CLEANING PROCESS
- Remove debris with a broom or blower.
- Pre-wet the TPO surface with clean water.
- Apply an approved cleaner (like an F9 product) diluted appropriately for the job.
- Lightly agitate with a soft-bristle brush where needed.
- Rinse thoroughly using low pressure and plenty of water.
WHAT TO AVOID
• No bleach or strong chlorine mixes.
• No solvent-based cleaners.
• No abrasive tools or wire brushes.
• No turbo nozzles.
• No pressure over 600 PSI.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Every TPO manufacturer has its own written maintenance guidelines. Always review the specific roof warranty and cleaning instructions before you begin. Following the right process keeps the roof looking good and helps protect the warranty.
Brought to you by PressureWashingInstitute.org
Note: Front 9’s “F9 Cookbook” provides detailed processes for which product to use for specific stains and how to dilute and apply each safely. It’s a professional resource that helps avoid over-cleaning or damaging surfaces.jracenstein.com