What is torch down roofing and why use it?
- Water Resistance: The first job of any roof is to keep water out of the building below. ...
- Flexibility and Durability: The modified bitumen sheets expand and contract as the temperature changes without cracking or splitting. ...
- Lifespan: The lifespan of a torch down roof is one of its main selling points, at 15 to 20 years. ...
How to install torch down rubber roofing?
- There are different rubber roof materials to choose from
- One should see if it is possible to install a rubber roof over the existing roof instead of removing it first.
- Can the existing rubber roof be repaired instead? In most cases, the answer is “Yes”. ...
- What warranties do the roofing contractors give for their service?
How do you repair a torch down roof?
- Spider cracks in the surface – the entire surface will have these fine cracks, but it could be just in the beginning stages and you could still repair the roof
- Look for seam separation – if the installer didn’t know how to use a torch properly to fuse the seams together, then the repair will be costly.
- Look for shrinkage. ...
What material is a torch down roof made of?
Torch down roofing consists of layers of modified bitumen, most often adhered to layers of fiberglass using a flame torch. Torch down roofing is only used on flat or low-slope roofs.
What does torch on roof mean?
May 8, 2019. Torch On roofing is made up of two layers of modified bitumen that are melted together by a torch- hence the name. This creates a roof that is resistant to ultraviolet light and a waterproof barrier, ideal for the Lower Mainland's wet season.
Is torch down roofing the same as rolled roofing?
Torch down roofing is still one of the most commonly used roofing types for flat commercial roofs. The official name of this type of roofing is modified bitumen. It is a rolled roofing product that consists of a tough waterproof roof membrane embedded in a thick layer of asphalt.
Is EPDM better than torch down?
Torch Down Rubber roofs will outlast any other roof system by 30 years and more if installed correctly. Due to marketing tactics, EPDM roofs became more popular than Torch Down roofs. It is harder to find roofing contractors that know how to install Torch Down Roofs.
How do you torch down a roof?
0:229:56How to lay down a Torch Down Roll and Torching technique - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIt's ceramic granules but so when you lay out a roof when you start torching you cannot just put theMoreIt's ceramic granules but so when you lay out a roof when you start torching you cannot just put the roll down and start torching. You will you roll out the entire row to where you want it and then
What is the life expectancy of a torch down roof?
Sheets are “torched down” so they adhere to the roof and seams are joined. These are well suited to most climates, though heavy rain and snowfall can compromise the life expectancy of torch-down roofing systems. On average, these roofs last 12-15 years and represent a great value for most buildings with flat roofs.
Can you walk on torch down roofing?
The torch-on roofing is extremely durable. It has a superior strength that it can resist tears and punctures due to various external factors like walking on the surface. In relation to this, it's also low maintenance as you can leave it as is for many months without worrying about its condition.
What is the best flat roofing system?
EPDM Membranes Quite possibly the best flat roofing membrane, EPDM is a relatively low-cost flat roof material that offers a number of significant advantages. Clean, straightforward installation, incredible strength, a long lifespan, and a smart finish combine to make EPDM membranes a difficult one to beat.
What type of roofing is best for a flat roof?
The 4 Best Materials for a Flat Roof (& How Much They Cost)EPDM membrane roofing. EPDM (ethylene propylene diene terpolymer) is a synthetic rubber black membrane commonly used in commercial and medical facilities. ... TPO membrane roofing. ... PVC membrane roofing. ... Standing seam metal roof.
What is the best rubber roofing?
EPDM. Ethylene propylene diene terpolymer, or EPDM, is one of the most popular materials for flat roofs.
How much is a torch down roof?
What Is the Average Cost of Torch Down Roofing? The average cost of a torch down ranges between $7,000 to $14,000 with a typical average of $10,400, including installation. The material alone typically costs between $2,300 to $4,600, and the labor costs between $4,600 to $9,200.
Does torch down roof need underlayment?
Also referred to as a torch on the roof, the torch down roofing underlayment is common for slightly sloped or flat roofs. It consists of modified bitumen membranes applied using a propane torch. This makes the torch down roofing watertight and a great choice where water causes severe damage on the roof.
How thick is torch down roofing?
The 2 Ply MB Torch Down Roofing Membrane is 3/8″ thick and can be installed directly over an uneven stone surface without being compromised by punctures.
Is TPO or torch down better?
0:411:40Torch Down versus TPO - Which is the best? - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipOn top don't go with EPDM don't go with TPO. Do another modified roof torch. Down it make sure it'sMoreOn top don't go with EPDM don't go with TPO. Do another modified roof torch. Down it make sure it's torques down over this and it'll be one of the best roofs that you will ever have.
Is torch down roofing illegal in NYC?
Not only is it illegal in New York City, a new torch down roof system will start to leak within the first few hot-to-cold cycles because openings start to form at the flashing point.
Do you need underlay for torch on felt?
If your going to do it properly you need 3no layers of felt, 2nd layer of underlay laid opposite to 1st. If using plain felt for 3rd layer you need solar reflective paint. Preffered 3rd layer green mineral.
How thick is torch down roofing?
about 3-4 mmThis flexibility makes torch down roofing durable and long-lasting. Torch down roofing also has a consistent thickness (about 3-4 mm) across the entire roof, unlike other roofing materials that may vary in thickness. This conformity across the roof surface makes for a more durable roof.
What Is Torch Down Roofing?
You can define torch down roofing as the method in installing a torch down roof. It is a widespread type of roof. The life span of this roof is abo...
How Much Does a Torch Down Roof Cost?
The average cost of torch down roof ranges from $380 to $490. The cost of roofing depends upon its type and the material used for it. If you want t...
What Is Torch Down Roofing Life Expectancy?
The average life of a torch down roof is about 15 years. The life expectancy of a roof depends upon the quality of the material used for it. The li...
How to Install Torch Down Roofing?
You need the required tools and efficient procedure to install a torch down roofing. First, you have to prepare the area before installation. You m...
How to Remove Torch Down Roofing?
You can use a knife or a scissor to remove the torch down roofing. You can also use a hook blade for tearing off the shovel. It will help if you ha...
What Goes Under Torch Down Roofing?
The materials that go under the torch down roofing include polyester, fiberglass, and many other related items. We also use small granules at the t...
How Long Does Torch Down Roofing Last?
The average lifespan of a torch down roofing is 15 to 20 years. If you hire an ordinary person, he may use low-quality material.
What Is Bitumen Torch Down Roofing?
Torch down roofing is also known as a bitumen torch down the roofing system. Bitumen is a material that is considered necessary for waterproofing,...
What is Torch Down Roofing Underlayment?
The underlayment of the torch down roofing system consists of the materials that are used in it. The underlayment of flooring means a thin layer of...
Weight of Torch Down Roofing?
If you use two rolls, the weight of the roofing system will be more than 200 pounds—
Why Choose Torch Down Roofing?
Torch down roofing comes with some clear benefits. Here’s why you should consider it for your flat roof installation:
How long does a torch down roof last?
Torch down roofs can easily last up to 20 years. Roof maintenance is an easy process when it comes to modified bitumen applications. If there is a gap or a rip in the membrane, patches are added to the damaged area. This re-creates that watertight seal.
Why do roofs rot?
Heat is known to move from your home’s interior to the exterior which creates condensation. Light-colored roofs tend to rot as they reflect solar radiation. The radiation creates heat which dries up the condensation. Torch down roofs are dark-colored and therefore absorb more solar radiation. The added heat dries up any moisture that may cause rotting.
When was Torch Down Roofing first made?
in the late 1970’s, and first manufactured in the U.S. in 1980.
How long can a 2 ply rubber roof last?
Torch down 2 ply rubber roofs are durable in that, not only can they withstand at least 40 years of extreme weather conditions, they can remain unaffected with heavy foot traffic by service and repairmen, as well. Unlike the single ply roofing systems, as in TPO and EPDM, the 2 ply MB system will need little to no maintenance during its life.
How thick is a 2 ply MB?
The 2 Ply MB Torch Down Roofing Membrane is 3/8″ thick and can be installed directly over an uneven stone surface without being compromised by punctures. In fact, the stone layer provides excellent insulation, when air is trapped between that layer and the new MB membrane. MB can also be installed over EPDM and TPO roofing systems that have degraded due to the lack of UV protection and the failures of bonding adhesives on seams. Because these existing roofing systems can be covered with the 2 Ply MB, stripping and removing the existing roof debris will not be an expense.
Can you torch down a modified bitumen roof?
Torching down a Modified Bitumen 2 ply membrane requires little surface preparation. A 2 ply torch down membrane can be installed over any existing roof or surface, to include a Hot-Tar-and-Gravel roof system.
What Is Torch Down Roofing?
You can define torch down roofing as the method in installing a torch down roof. It is a widespread type of roof. The life span of this roof is about 15 to 20 years. There are many bitumen membranes present in this type of roof.
What is Torch Down Roofing Underlayment?
The underlayment of the torch down roofing system consists of the materials that are used in it. The underlayment of flooring means a thin layer of a specified material. It can be made up of a felt, foam, rubber, or fiber. Majorly, this roofing system requires bitumen sheets. All these sheets are rolled on your roof.
What is a TPO Roof?
TPO stands for thermoplastic polyolefin. TPO roof is a type of roof that consists of a single layer of roofing membrane. It is a type of roofing system which consists of synthetic’s thin layers of reinforcing scrim and synthetics. The manufacturers have made TPO with the help of products that are environmentally friendly.
What is torch down roofing?
Torch down roofing—also known as “torch on roofing”—is one of the most common types of roofing for flat and slightly sloped roofs. Torch down roofing consists of multiple modified bitumen membranes, applied with a propane torch. This installation process gives torch down roofing a uniquely watertight seal, making it a great choice ...
What are the different types of torch down roofing?
There are two different types of torch down roofing systems: two-layer and three-layer.
What is modified bitumen?
Modified bitumen is asphalt bitumen mixed with a plastic or rubber additive. There are two main types of modified bitumen membrane that are used to create torch down roofing material: Atactic Polypropylene (APP) and Styrene Butadiene Styrene (SBS).
What is an APP in roofing?
APP is a type of plastic used to produce modified bitumen for torch down roofing. APP modified bitumen membranes are especially flexible. They respond well to both high and low temperatures.
How many sheets of torch down roofing?
roofing contractor will unroll each sheet individually during the installation process (two sheets for two-layer, three sheets for three-layer). You might be able to find a torch down roofing contractor in your area by searching for a rolled roofing installation company.
How long does a torch down roof last?
The lifespan of a torch down roof is one of its main selling points, at 15 to 20 years. Torch down roofing is more long-lasting than some other types of flat roof systems. This is due to its flexibility in hot and cold temperatures, as well as its resistance to water damage.
How thick is torch down?
This flexibility makes torch down roofing durable and long-lasting. Torch down roofing also has a consistent thickness (about 3-4 mm) across the entire roof, unlike other roofing materials that may vary in thickness. This conformity across the roof surface makes for a more durable roof.
How long does a Torch Down rubber roof last?
Torch Down Rubber roofs will outlast any other roof system by 30 years and more if installed correctly. Due to marketing tactics, EPDM roofs became more popular than Torch Down roofs.
How long has a rubber roof been left unprotected?
This is a Torch Down Rubber Roof that was left unprotected for over 12 years. Notice the wrinkling and unevenness of the membrane. The owners did so little they even let the drain clog up and plants started to grow.
What temperature does EPDM rubber glue lose its adhesive?
The temperatures will rise to 160 degrees Fahrenheit during a summer day, and that glue will lose its bonding properties.
What is the problem with EPDM roofing?
The biggest issue with an EPDM roofing system is not the rubber membrane itself, but rather the adhesives used to bond seams together. A contact glue or cement was used for seaming and patches, but the extreme heat on a black EPDM roof quickly degraded or broke down the adhesion of the glue compromising the roof.
When did rubber roofs start?
Rubber roofs were introduced in the late ’60s in the United States. Both EPDM and Modified Bitumen Torch Down Rubber membranes were making their way into the roofing industry early on. These rubber roofs have evolved since their conception. See the steps to take on Flat Roof Repairs for a Torch Down Rubber membrane.
What happens if you don't treat your roof properly?
A roof is a very expensive part of a structure. If not treated properly, will cause damage to the substructure and eventually not only a roof replacement, but repairs that could have been avoided. Besides the plants growing in the middle of the roof, the surface of this Torch Down Roof was never protected.
Is there a cure for EPDM roofs?
It is safe to say that so far there is no cure for this problem in the near future. EPDM Rubber Roofs also have a problem with ultraviolet rays. The rubber tends to get dry and shrink. In some cases, we have seen where the rubber has completely deteriorated.
What is Torch Down Roofing?
From the name “torch down,” a torch down roofing is the process of applying multiple layers of modified bitumen with an open-flame propane torch.
How Are Torch Down Roofing Systems Installed?
When consulting a roofing professional about installing a torch down roof, these 6 steps will help you gain an understanding of the proper installation process to ensure its success.
How Much Does It Cost to Install a Torch Down Roof?
Torch down roofing isn’t the cheapest. Depending on your roofing contractor, the lowest you might pay is $365 for a 1,200 square feet roof. Higher quality materials can bump this price to $460.
What type of bitumen is used for torch down roofing?
There are two types available: Styrene Butadiene Styrene (SBS) and Atactic Polypropylene (AP).
What is a two layer roof?
Two-layer systems have a base layer and a cap sheet or torch-on layer. While two-layer systems are easier to install and cost less, they also don’t last as long as three-layer roofing systems.
How much does a torch down roof cost?
Depending on your roofing contractor, the lowest you might pay is $365 for a 1,200 square feet roof. Higher quality materials can bump this price to $460.
Why use vapor barrier on torch roof?
As mentioned earlier, a vapor barrier is crucial to enhance protection against water or moisture damage. An overlay board acts as a support system upon applying the torch roof membrane. When installing an overlay board, make sure the board is installed precisely.
What does it mean when a roof is dark colored?
The dark-colored caulking is a sign of old repairs, while the lighter colored caulkings are signs of newer repairs. Neither the EPDM rubber patches nor the caulking, are a permanent solution to a worry-free or leak-proof roof. Caulking is always used around patches.
Why is EPDM not good for a roof?
We highly recommend the 2 Ply Modified Bitumen Rubber Roof System because it is 5 times thicker, with a stronger rubber composition that will not erode with any kind of maintenance activities.
Why is EPDM rubber not good for home maintenance?
EPDM is not designed to withstand the repeated foot traffic that is necessary for home maintenance because it is too thin, and can be easily damaged.
Is modified bitumen rubber heat welded?
Modified Bitumen Torch Down Rubber Roofs are heat-welded at the seams. This roof was installed by Commercial Roof USA over 14 years ago, and as of this writing, there are no signs of repair patches.
Is there a patch on a modified bitumen roof?
This is a Modified Bitumen Torch Rubber Roof after 10 years of installation. There is not one patch on the entire roof.
Can a flat roof be sloped?
Residential roofs can have a combination of sloped and flat roofs. The flat roofs are normally used to access the sloped roofs for cleaning gutters, snow removal, or house painting, resulting in more foot traffic. As a result, the flat roof membrane becomes susceptible to punctures from these maintenance activities.
