Torch down roofing is a process that involves applying multiple layers of modified bitumen with an open flame propane torch. The material is then heated and fused together to form a watertight seal.

There are two types of modified bitumen membranes that may be used for torch down roofing, including APP and Styrene Butadiene Styrene (SBS). The APP membrane is more expensive but provides better elasticity than SBS.

What is Torch Down Roofing?

Torch Down Roofing is a type of flat roof system that uses torch-applied bitumen. It is used on homes with flat roofs or in areas where the roof has a very slight slope. The roof is then sealed with a watertight membrane that can help prevent standing water and other issues that may affect your home’s structure.

The bitumen used in this type of roofing system is designed to expand and contract when it is heated or cooled. This makes it a great choice for cold and hot climates alike.

It also has the added benefit of reflecting sunlight and improving energy efficiency for your home. This is a big advantage for many homeowners because it can help lower your energy bills.

When it comes to choosing a roofing material for your roof, there are many different options to consider. Some of the most common are EPDM, TPO, and thermoplastic polyolefin. All of these have their own pros and cons, and it’s important to decide what will work best for your needs.

Another factor to consider is how long your roof will last. The lifespan of your torch down roofing will depend on the quality and durability of the materials it is made from.

While there are a lot of benefits to using this roofing system, it is not right for every home. You should speak to an expert if you are not sure whether or not it will be a good fit for your roof.

Some disadvantages of this type of roofing include seam failure and other installation mistakes. A three-layer system is less likely to have these problems, but they can still happen.

During a cold weather period, if the membrane is not properly applied or repaired, water can become trapped between the layers. It is also possible to have leaks through these layers.

This can be very costly to repair and replace. It is also more difficult to get a professional to work on a cold weather roof because it is often very hard to access the roof to apply or repair the membrane.

Torch Down Roofing Materials

There are a variety of materials used to produce torch down roofing membranes. They include modified bitumen and polymers like Atactic Polypropylene (APP) or Styrene Butadiene Styrene (SBS). Depending on the contractor, they may also use a thermoplastic coating known as Silver Coating for harmful UV protection.

Modified Bitumen is an asphalt compound mixed with a plastic or rubber additive to make it more flexible and durable. It is an excellent choice for flat roofs because it expands and contracts in extreme temperatures, preventing cracking and creating a leak-proof seal. It is also highly resistant to fires and foot traffic, so it’s a good choice for homes where people walk on the roof often.

MB can be installed in single-ply or two-ply systems on both commercial and residential buildings. When used in single-ply systems, MB has a lifespan of up to 20 years and can be reinforced with a layer of ceramic granules to provide even more protection from UV rays.

In addition to being durable and water-resistant, torch down membranes are also resistant to punctures and other damages. They can withstand punctures from falling objects, including debris from windstorms. They can also withstand hot weather, so they will keep your interior cool and save you money on energy bills.

Torch down membranes are available in a number of colors, from white to black. The dark color of a black membrane can reduce the amount of heat that is reflected from your roof, keeping you cool and saving you on energy bills.

The second and fourth layers of a torch down membrane are made up of an asphalt base and a smooth cap sheet. They are then secured to the overlay board with a heat fusing method or adhesive.

When it comes to the cap sheet, smooth sheets can be used as a substrate for liquid-applied silicone membranes down the road, providing significant savings. However, granulated sheets are more common and typically used for their strength and durability.

Torch Down vs Hot Mopped Roofing

Torch down roofing is one of the most common types of commercial roofs for flat buildings. It’s also called modified bitumen roofing and consists of a tough waterproof membrane that’s rolled out onto the roof.

This material is made of a thick layer of asphalt that has been treated with rubbery additives and high-quality resins to allow it to expand and contract. This flexibility allows it to bond tightly to metal flashings and move with them, while also maintaining the bond and keeping a tight seal around the area.

Another advantage of torch down roofing is that it’s easier to repair than other roofing systems. It’s also much less expensive than other materials, so it can be a good choice for people who want to save money on repairs and maintenance costs.

Typically, these roofing systems are installed by using a flame torch to heat the bitumen. This process melts the cap sheet and base sheet together, creating a waterproof roof that is more durable than other options.

The first step in installing a torch down roof is to remove the old roof. This is done to ensure the new roof doesn’t have any cracks or other damage that could make it a fire hazard.

After the old roof is removed, the building owner can begin preparing for the new roof. This includes removing any debris that is on the roof, such as nails and shingles. It’s important to remember that the roofer can’t be too close to flammable items when they’re working, so it’s best to keep any potential hazards far away from the site.

In addition, the contractor should use a torch to heat the bitumen as they roll it out, so they can get a stronger bond between each layer of material. This makes the entire process more efficient and faster, so the roof can be completed in a shorter amount of time.

The torch-down method is a cost-effective and long-lasting roofing option. It is a popular choice for commercial buildings and residential homes, as it can last up to 20 years with proper maintenance.

The Pros and Cons of Flat Roofing

Flat roofs are a growing trend for commercial and residential buildings. This is largely due to the fact that they offer a more modern aesthetic than traditional sloped or pitched roofs. However, there are many pros and cons to consider before you choose a flat roofing system for your home or business.

In addition to providing a more modern aesthetic, flat roofs are also more affordable than other roofing systems. This is because they require less material and labor to build than sloped or pitched roofs, so they cost less in the long run.

Another advantage of flat roofs is that they’re more insulated than sloped or pitched roofs. This makes them a great choice for homes and businesses that want to save on energy costs and reduce their impact on the environment.

One of the major disadvantages of flat roofing is that it’s often not as durable as sloped or pitched roofs. This is because it’s not a material that can withstand the weight of snow or rain, so it may not last as long.

The ponding of water is also a problem for these types of roofs, which can lead to leaks. This is because water that has accumulated on the surface of the roof can expand and fill in cracks in the structure, which will eventually become weaker.

These issues can be especially problematic for buildings in cold climates. The ice that accumulates on the roof can cause severe damage to the roof structure, so it’s important to choose the right type of weatherproofing and materials for your building.

Additionally, if you plan on selling your property in the future, a flat roof might not be the best option for you. Flat roofs aren’t as durable as sloped or pitched roofs, so you might have to replace them more often.

Finally, you should know that a flat roof can be difficult to install. It requires a high level of expertise and can be complicated, so you should hire professional contractors to do the job.

If you’re in the market for a new flat roof, we highly recommend contacting a professional Torch Down Roofing Company in Manorville NY. We can help you determine which type of roofing will be the best fit for your building and provide top-quality installation services at a reasonable price.