Rubber Roof to TPO Replacement
This roofing project in Framingham, MA involved the emergency replacement of an incorrectly installed EPDM rubber roof with a new TPO roof system. The previous installation by another contractor had failed, leaving the homeowner — who had trusted us with a prior shingle roof replacement — in need of a fast, reliable solution. We advised TPO as the stronger long-term option, and once the proposal was approved and the deposit received, we scheduled and completed the full replacement in one day.
The Challenge
The main issue on this project was that the existing EPDM rubber roof had been installed incorrectly by another roofing contractor and needed to be replaced.
When a low slope roof system is installed the wrong way, even a newer roof can fail early and create serious water intrusion concerns. In this case, the improper installation left the homeowner dealing with a failing roof and the need for a contractor who could step in quickly, diagnose the problem accurately, and deliver a dependable long-term solution.
The homeowner had previously trusted WaterTite Co. with a shingle roof replacement and returned to us when the EPDM section — installed by a different company — began to fail. That prior relationship gave us a clear understanding of the property and the homeowner's expectations.
Because this was an emergency replacement, timing was also critical. The client had already experienced the frustration of a failed roofing system and needed a fast response. After evaluating the failed EPDM roof, we advised that TPO would be the stronger long-term solution for this low slope application — and once the proposal was approved and the deposit received, we moved immediately to schedule the work.
Before & After Transformation
Transformation: This project showcases the dramatic difference our expert team can achieve. From the initial condition to the final result, see how quality craftsmanship transforms spaces.
Scope of Work
- Inspection of the incorrectly installed EPDM rubber roof to confirm the scope of failure
- Recommendation of TPO as the appropriate replacement roofing system
- Proposal approval and deposit received from the homeowner
- Emergency installation scheduled within 72 hours of payment
- Removal of the failed EPDM rubber roofing system
- Installation of the new TPO roofing system
- Final detailing and cleanup
- Roof replacement completed in one day
Materials Used
- TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) roofing membrane — selected as the stronger long-term replacement for the failed EPDM system
- Correct perimeter metal and termination details for proper low slope roofing installation
- Roofing adhesives and fasteners appropriate for TPO system installation
Challenges Solved
- Diagnosed and removed an incorrectly installed EPDM rubber roof that had failed prematurely
- Guided the homeowner from a failed system to a properly installed TPO replacement with a clear recommendation and fast turnaround
- Scheduled emergency installation within 72 hours of proposal approval and deposit receipt
- Completed the full roof replacement in a single day to minimize exposure and disruption
- Restored confidence after the homeowner had been let down by a previous contractor's improper installation
The Results
The completed project gave the homeowner a properly installed new TPO roof after the previous EPDM system failed due to incorrect installation by another contractor.
By responding quickly, replacing the failed roof on an emergency timeline, and guiding the client toward a stronger roofing solution, this project restored the homeowner's confidence and delivered a significantly more reliable low slope roof system.
The result is a clean, properly installed TPO roof — completed in one day, on an emergency schedule — that gives the Framingham homeowner a dependable assembly built to last.
Project Timeline
Proposal & Approval
After inspecting the failed EPDM roof, we presented a proposal recommending TPO as the replacement system. The homeowner approved the proposal and submitted the deposit.
Emergency Scheduling
Once the deposit was received, the installation was scheduled and confirmed within 72 hours to address the emergency roofing situation as quickly as possible.
Roof Replacement
The full rubber roof removal and new TPO installation was completed in a single day, minimizing exposure and delivering a fast resolution for the homeowner.
Investment Insights
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between EPDM and TPO roofing?
EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) is a synthetic rubber membrane commonly used on low slope and flat roofs. TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) is a single-ply membrane that uses heat-welded seams, which can provide a stronger, more watertight bond when installed correctly. Both are established flat roofing systems, but TPO is often preferred for new installations where a more durable seam system is a priority.
Why was the EPDM roof replaced instead of repaired?
The existing EPDM roof had been installed incorrectly by a previous contractor, which caused it to fail. When the underlying installation is the root cause of the problem, repair work on top of a flawed system rarely produces a reliable long-term outcome. Replacing the system entirely — and installing it correctly — was the only way to give the homeowner a dependable roof.
Why did you recommend TPO instead of replacing with EPDM again?
After evaluating the failed roof, we determined that TPO offered a stronger long-term solution for this particular low slope application. TPO's heat-welded seams create a more durable joint than traditional EPDM adhesive or tape seams, and the material performs well across a range of weather conditions. We always recommend the system that gives our clients the best long-term result for their specific roof.
How fast can you complete an emergency roof replacement?
On this project, we scheduled the installation within 72 hours of receiving the approved proposal and deposit, and completed the full roof replacement in a single day. Emergency scheduling depends on project scope, materials, and availability, but we prioritize fast turnaround when water intrusion risk is present.
The previous roofer installed the roof incorrectly. Can WaterTite Co. fix it?
Yes. Correcting improper installations from other contractors is work we are experienced with. If you have a low slope or flat roof that is failing prematurely, we can evaluate the condition, identify what went wrong, and recommend the best path forward — whether that is a targeted repair or a full replacement.
Do you handle emergency roofing in other Massachusetts towns?
Yes. WaterTite Co. serves Framingham and the broader Greater Boston area. If you have an urgent roofing situation, contact us for an evaluation and we will work to schedule your project as quickly as possible.
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Ready for Your Own Transformation?
Need emergency roof replacement, TPO roofing, or low slope roof repair in Framingham or the Greater Boston area? Contact WaterTite Co. for a detailed evaluation and quote.