Meyers Roofing Co. The Ultimate Guide to Torch Down Roofing
Torch down roofing, also known as “torch on” roofing, is named for the style of installation, which involves the use of an open-flame propane torch. The sheets of modified bitumen are then rolled out on to the roof, and a roofing professional uses a hand-held propane torch to heat and bond the material to the surface. The seams are then melted together to form a waterproof seal.
Torch Down Roofing Materials
Torched down roofs consist of layers of the compound bitumen—a type of asphalt modified with rubber or plastic. One key to this has been the adaptation of the material to allow it to expand and contract as much as it needs to in response to seasonal temperature fluctuations on the roof without melting or cracking. Torch down roofing systems are of two types — two-layer systems and three-layer systems.
Types of Modified Bitumen
Atactic Polypropylene (APP): A type of plastic incasing the prepared membranes to make the roofing membranes pliable and flexible with respect to temperature.
Styrene Butadiene Styrene (SBS): A type of rubber that also makes the bitumen more flexible and has a lower melting point than APP. The application for SBS membranes can be torch applied, self adhered, cold processed, or mopped.
Torch down roofing membranes are often made out of a sturdy core, which tends to be hairy fiberglass, polyester or another material. They may also press granules into the top layer to provide fire resistance, color choices, UV stability, or other special features.
Guide to Torch Down RoofingThe name for this type of roofing, torch down roofing (sometimes referred to as “torch on” roofing) comes from the method of installation, which includes an open-flame propane torch. The sheets of modified bitumen are rolled out on the roof, and a roofing technician applies heat and a hand-held propane torch to fuse the material to the surface. The seams are then melted together, creating a waterproof seal.
Torch Down Roofing Materials
Torched down roofing is made up of layers of the compound bitumen, a type of asphalt that is modified with rubber or plastic. One crucial aspect of this has been to have the materials calibrated so they’re free to expand and contract as much as they need to as temperatures change seasonally on the roof without boiling or cracking. There are two types of torch down roofing systems, which are two-layer systems and three-layer systems.
Types of Modified Bitumen
Atactic Polypropylene (APP): This is a type of plastic that surrounds the prepared membranes, making the roofing membranes flexible and pliable temperature-wise.
Styrene Butadiene Styrene (SBS): Another rubber type that gives the bitumen is much more flexible but with a lower melting point than APP. SBS membranes can be torch applied, self adhered, cold processed, or mopped.
Torch down roofing membranes typically have a tough core, usually a fibrous kind of fiberglass, polyester or another substance. They can also embed granules into the top layer to add fire resistance, color options, UV stability or other specialized characteristics.
Torch Down Roofing Systems and Their Components
Insulation: First, to conserves heat, particularly in the colder regions of the world.
Vapor Barrier: Keeps condensation and moisture problems at bay.
Overlay Board: The layer of material to support the torch down roofing membrane as well to prevent water ponding.
Base Sheet The bottom layer of the modified bitumen membrane that is attached (heat fusing, hot mopping, or adhesive)
Cap Sheet: The upper membrane layer soldered to a base sheet with a torch.
Where you have penetrations: Self-adhering modified bitumen membrane around ingress/egress points, with metal flashing.
Pros of Torch Down Roofing
While not all torch down roofing is suitable for all climates, certain brands excel in wet, snowy environments. It cannot break and has a long life because it expands and contracts without causing damage to the surface. The cap sheet offers UV resistance and also allows the building to stay cool and conserve energy. Repairs are fairly easy, requiring only the inclusion of modified bitumen membrane patches.
Best Use Cases for Torch Down Roofing
Wounded roofing is a suitable solution for low pitched roofs with a slope of ¼:12 to 1:12, which entail durability and weather resistance. It works particularly well in snowy climates. These types of roofs can also accommodate a variety of other roofing applications.
Guide to Torch Down RoofingFAQs
What is torch down roofing called?
Torch down roofing is also referred to as “torch on” roofing and a “rubberoid” roof.
Is torch down roofing good?
Yes, in addition torch down roofing is water-resistant and can be used in every climate it is also an easy option to repair. It acts better for a moderately pitched roofs.
How long do torched roofs last?
One of the many benefits of torch down roofing is that it is durable, and its long lifespan is made to handle extreme temperatures and weather.
How Much Does a Torch Down Roof Cost?
Torch down roofing generally has a lower up-front cost and a lower long-term cost than other roofing choices.
What is the top torch down roofing material?
Torch down roofing consists of a modified bitumen with common polymers APP and SBS. SBS modified bitumen has a lower melting point and can be applied by different methods.
Is it possible to install a torch down roof during winter?
Yes, but you have to follow specific cold weather instructions as described in the installation manual.
If you would like to learn more about torch down roofing or would like to be connected with a qualified contractor near you, go to Meyers Roofing Company.
