
It’s also called hot mop roofing or built-up roofing, because of the techniques used. This roof is actually an arrangement of various layers of felt and asphalt Asphalt, also known as bitumen is a sticky, black and highly viscous liquid or semi-solid form of petroleum. It may be found in natural deposits or may be a refined product; it is a substance classed as a pitch. Until the 20th century, the term asphaltum was also used. The word is derived fr…Asphalt
What is a hot mop roof?
It’s also called hot mop roofing or built-up roofing, because of the techniques used. This roof is actually an arrangement of various layers of felt and asphalt finally topped off with a layer of gravel.
What is the purpose of a hot mop?
It serves to protect the base sheet on your roof and keep it watertight. To begin the hot mop process, a layer of hot asphalt will be spread on top of the roof’s base sheet. The hot asphalt is laid out evenly with a large, heated mop over the surface.
What is the difference between torch down and hot mop roofing?
Though slight, however, the difference is significant enough for those on a tight budget to keep in mind as they make their roofing selections. Neither of these two roof types is particularly easy to install; however, torch down roofing is slightly easier than hot mop roofing.
How do you mop a sloped roof?
Sloped Roofs: You would normally hot mop with either the felt or granulated modified bitumen. If this method is not preferred for whatever reason, then there is an option to use a Peel and Stick; which is a self-adhered material to be modified on sloped roofing.

How long does it take to hot mop a roof?
The hot mop roof/ BUR installation job can be completed within 2 to 4 days, depending on the size of the roof and the number of installer we've put on the job. This is great news, especially because the average tile roof will take anywhere between a week to up to 10 days to be completely installed.
How much does hot mopping cost?
How Much Does Hot Mop Installation Cost? HomeAdvisor reports that the cost to install a hot mop shower pan is between $250 and $400. The cost will vary depending on the size of your project (hot mopping a roof, for example, will generally cost more than hot mopping a small shower).
How do you use a hot mop?
0:000:25How To: Apply Hot Mop Tar - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipOverlap. Each sheet to prevent leaks applying. Enough pressure for bonding finish with the top layerMoreOverlap. Each sheet to prevent leaks applying. Enough pressure for bonding finish with the top layer of tar for a watertight surface.
Which is better hot mop or torch down?
Neither of these two roof types is particularly easy to install; however, torch down roofing is slightly easier than hot mop roofing. Because installing hot mop roofing involves so many steps and requires the roofers to toil over molten tar, the process is often more difficult than torch down roofing.
How long does hot mopping last?
15 yearsWhile hot mopping can last for almost 15 years after application; CPE/PVC sheets always last longer. Once properly applied and installed, membrane sheets can last for a lifetime and ensure better and around-the-clock waterproofing in the wet floors.
Is hot mop expensive?
A hot mop shower pan costs $225 to $500 installed on average. Hot mop shower pans last 15 years or more. Hot mopping a shower pan creates a watertight membrane with layers of hot tar and felt.
Is hot mop roof good?
Hot mop roofing is considered to be the most effective way of covering a flat or low-slope roof. The result is an impermeable, multi-layered roof covering that will last for up to 15 years—longer if the roof is laid with good drainage that avoids puddling.
What do you do after hot mop?
Tile Backer and Mud Base: Once the hot mop is complete, the next step is to put up the tile backer and base. Laying tile is a state regulated trade that requires a license for jobs in excess of $500.
How thick is hot mop?
A Hot Mop Shower pan is consisted of 4 layers of waterproof hot tar, sandwiched in 3 layers of 15 lb roofing felt, embedded on top of a ¼ inch per foot mortar bed. All layers are melted and permanently stuck together to make one waterproof barrier that no other method can beat!
How long does a torch on roof last?
around 20 yearsA Torch On roof lasts around 20 years and is virtually maintenance free, during that time. Torch On roofing provides many of the same benefits of traditional tar and gravel roofs.
What goes under torch down roofing?
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.
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.
How long does hot mop take to dry?
The hot mop process is quick, easy, and most importantly, attentive. The process generally only takes about an hour and a half to craft, and about two hours to dry.
Is hot mop roof good?
Hot mop roofing is considered to be the most effective way of covering a flat or low-slope roof. The result is an impermeable, multi-layered roof covering that will last for up to 15 years—longer if the roof is laid with good drainage that avoids puddling.
How thick is hot mop?
A Hot Mop Shower pan is consisted of 4 layers of waterproof hot tar, sandwiched in 3 layers of 15 lb roofing felt, embedded on top of a ¼ inch per foot mortar bed. All layers are melted and permanently stuck together to make one waterproof barrier that no other method can beat!
Where Should You Hot Mop?
While hot mopping is most commonly used to waterproof bathrooms , you can also use it to waterproof various home projects (think decks and indoor planters) as well as your roof. In fact, hot mopping is considered to be one of the best ways to cover and protect flat or low-slope roofs.
How Much Does Hot Mop Installation Cost?
HomeAdvisor reports that the cost to install a hot mop shower pan is between $250 and $400. The cost will vary depending on the size of your project (hot mopping a roof, for example, will generally cost more than hot mopping a small shower).
Can You DIY Hot Mopping?
Hot mopping is a strenuous and dangerous project with plenty of room for error. The hot asphalt gets up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, meaning you could seriously burn yourself if you make a mistake. The strong smell of asphalt isn’t fun, either.
What is hot mop roofing?
This roof is actually an arrangement of various layers of felt and asphalt finally topped off with a layer of gravel. This may sound simple, but there many different—possibly hundreds of variations of built-up and hot-mop roofing.
How long does it take to install a hot mop roof?
The hot mop roof/ BUR installation job can be completed within 2 to 4 days, depending on the size of the roof and the number of installer we’ve put on the job. This is great news, especially because the average tile roof will take anywhere between a week to up to 10 days to be completely installed.
Is it a labor intensive job to install a roof?
Installing a built-up roof is a labor intensive job, as compared to other roofing options. However, many home and commercial building owners still trust this as their choice of roofing because hot mopping is still, in fact, one of the best low-slope roofing systems available today.
Can you mop asphalt over a chimney?
The melted asphalt can easily be mopped over a variety of shapes. Our technicians can go around chimneys and AC units with ease when installing BUR. We can also adjust the fiberglass and felt, cutting it according to the shape and slope of your roofing.
Can you put a hot mop on an existing roof?
A hot mop roof may easily be installed over existing roof as long as the weight is not too much for the structure. This means huge potential for savings on the roofing job.
9 Quick Steps To Set Up, Or Install Hot Mopping Roof
You must know that hot mopping is not recommended for residential roofs because it can be challenging to install and repair. If you consider installing the hot mopping for your roof, follow the step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Clean The Surface
The first thing you need to do is make sure that your roof’s surface is clean and free of debris. If there is any dirt or debris on the surface of your roof, it can prevent the asphalt from bonding correctly to the surface. It can lead to leaks and other problems.
Step 2: Repair The Damage
Next, you need to repair any damage on the surface of your roof. It includes cracks, holes, and any other damage that may have occurred. If you have any loose shingles, you should also replace them. After repairing the roof’s surface, you can begin the process of hot mopping.
Step 3: Apply Asphalt On Surface
The first step in hot mopping is to apply a layer of asphalt to the surface of your roof. The coating will serve as a barrier between the top and the tar. After using asphalt, you can then apply the tar.
Step 4: Apply Tar And Rosin Paper On The Surface
The tar is applied to a hot mopping machine. This machine will spread the tar evenly on the surface of your roof. Once the tar has been applied, you will now need to apply rosin paper along the length of the roof above it. You must use a staple gun to attach the rosin paper so that the rosin paper does not come out.
Step 5: Put The Layer Of Asphalt On Rosin Paper
Now you can apply a second layer of asphalt to the rosin paper. By doing so, you can prevent leaks. You can start installing shingles after finishing this second-level application. But you have to make sure that the shingles overlap each other.
Step 6: Install Flashing
Now is the time to cut and install flashing around the roof fixtures and inserts. You can use a plastic roofing flashing set to reduce leakage. These flashing shingles seal the edges and prevent water from entering your home.
What temperature should asphalt be flashed?
Flashing (as needed) Hot-mopped asphalt is applied at approximately 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Hot-mopped roofs are durable, low-cost options compared with others types of roofs. They are designed for roofs with shallow pitches, where the rise is no more than 4 inches in every 12 inches.
How to use rosin paper on a roof?
Use a staple gun to layer rosin paper lengthwise over the roof and cant strips. If short-handed, staple one end of the rosin paper, then stretch your paper to the other side of the roof and staple that end before adding more staples along the seam.
Is molten asphalt dangerous?
Molten asphalt is extremely hazardous. Take it slow and use safety precautions when applying a hot-mop roof.
Is hot mopping allowed in every jurisdiction?
Because of the fumes released by liquefying asphalt, hot mopping contributes to smog production. Hot mopping may not be allowed in every jurisdiction, or it may be allowed only at certain times of the year. Advertisement.
What is a hot mop roof?
Hot Mop Roof. Hot mop roofs use a combination of felt and asphalt; this creates various layers which are then finished with a layer of gravel. A hot mop roof is only used on flat and low roofs, they are sometimes called tar and gravel roof. While the installation process can be a messy one, the price is exceptionally appealing to many homeowners.
How long does a hot mop roof last?
Life Span. A hot mop roof can last up to twenty years. This is exceptionally short when you look at the life span of other roofing materials. In most cases the hot mop roof will last anywhere between fifteen and thirty years. Regular maintenance is key to ensuring this type of roof lasts for as long as possible.
How is asphalt melted?
Basically asphalt blocks are melted into a cauldron or bucket, once melted it is poured onto the roof and a team of installers will mop it into place. The heat of the asphalt can easily burn the installers, so additional care has to be taken during the installation process. Once the asphalt has been mopped into place a layer ...
How long does it take to install a hot mop roof?
The hot mop roof is fast when it comes to installation. It can take up to two days to install an entire roof, based on the number of installers. This is good when you think an average clay tile roof can take up to ten days to install.
What is the roof topped with?
The roof is then topped with rock or gravel.
Can you use melted asphalt on a roof?
Roofs with unusual shapes will benefit from this type of roofing material. The melted asphalt is easy to apply simply to a variety of shapes. The fiberglass and felt can also be cut to the right size and shape with ease. Chimneys and air conditioning units are not an installer's nightmare when using this roofing material.
Can you put a hot mop on an existing roof?
Tear Off. The biggest advantage to a hot mop roof is that it can be installed over an existing roof without having to tear off the old roof. This can be highly cost effective, in many cases saving up to $2 per square foot.
What is hot mop on roof?
It serves to protect the base sheet on your roof and keep it watertight. To begin the hot mop process, a layer of hot asphalt will be spread on top of the roof’s base sheet. The hot asphalt is laid out evenly with a large, heated mop over the surface.
What material is used to hot mop a roof?
The equipment required includes the asphalt, the preferred material (mineral surfaced cap sheet or commercial grade modified bitumen etc), a tar kettle, ...
What type of sheet is used for flat roofs?
Flat Roofs: When reroofing a flat roof, a mineral-surfaced cap sheet or a commercial grade modified bitumen can be used. These two materials would both be simultaneously applied with the hot asphalt (tar), or Torch Applied with a flame torch. The torching method involves a flame torch that used to heat up the bitumen material as it is layered onto the roof in order to melt it and secure it tightly onto the base sheet.
How long does a hot mop last?
The duration of the hot mop in progress depends on the size and pitch of the roof. And because the fumes are noxious and unpleasant, it is best for all occupants to leave their home for the day.
What is the second step in re-roofing?
The second step in the re-roofing process – the hot mop – is an essential part of a tile roof system. It protects your base sheet and keeps your roof watertight by acting like a secondary water barrier between the dry-in materials and the tiles.
Is hot mopping a bad thing?
Unfortunately, hot mopping expels strong and noxious fumes, and so customers may be asked to leave the home so that the tar can be safely applied onto the roof. The fumes are not extremely toxic, but it can pose a risk for any children, elderly or people who suffer from breathing impairments such as Asthma.
Is ABC Roofing Corp a licensed roofing company?
The roofers at ABC Roofing Corp have been servicing South Florida roofs for over 30 years. Licensed and State certified we are proud of our reputation as an honest and loyal company, and are commitment to excellent service and satisfying our customers every need.
What is a hot mop roof?
Hot mop roofing and torch down roofing are both popular roofing options for flat-roofed structures. Both of these options provide an effective way to waterproof a roof, creating a base that will stand up to weather while keeping the inhabitants of the building dry. The procedure for applying each varies, as do the cost and life span, ...
How long does a hot mop roof last?
Hot mop roofing has a life span of 15 to 20 years, making it a process that you will not soon have to repeat. The life span of torch down roofing is similar, lasting 15 to 20 years with proper installation. With two comparable life spans, those seeking a new roof can't pick a winner on this criterion alone. Advertisement.
What are the hazards of torch down roofing?
The primary hazard associated with torch down roofing comes from the use of fire. If roofers aren't careful, they can inadvertently start a fire with the torch they are using as they roof.
Is torch down roofing easier than hot mop roofing?
Ease of Installation. Neither of these two roof types is particularly easy to install; however, torch down roofing is slightly easier than hot mop roofing. Because installing hot mop roofing involves so many steps and requires the roofers to toil over molten tar, the process is often more difficult than torch down roofing.
Is hot mop roofing cheaper?
Hot mop roofing is generally the cheaper of the two options, although only by a small margin. Though slight, however, the difference is significant enough for those on a tight budget to keep in mind as they make their roofing selections.
Can a hot mop start a fire?
If roofers aren't careful, they can inadvertently start a fire with the torch they are using as they roof. Hot mop roofing also presents a hazard. Roofers who engage in this process are exposed to fumes of molten asphalt for an extended period.
What is hot mopping?
Most often used in roofing jobs and shower installations, hot mopping is a process through which asphalt and tar paper are used to create an impermeable layer. Hot mop tar is a good way to waterproof projects like an indoor planter. Here’s how it’s applied. After it’s heated in a kettle, hot asphalt is used to adhere layers ...
How to apply hot asphalt to a surface?
Here’s how it’s applied. After it’s heated in a kettle, hot asphalt is used to adhere layers of tar paper to cover the surface. Overlap each sheet to prevent leaks, applying enough pressure for bonding. Finish with a top layer of tar for a waterproof surface. For more on waterproofing, consider: Install Gutter Flashing.
