Torch Down Roofing

Also called modified bitumen roofing, torch down roofing is one of the most common roof types used today. It gets its name from the method of burning the bitumen sheets on a sheet of fiberglass during the process of installation. Burning bitumen melts it, thereby, creating a highly durable and resistant roofing. As a result, these types of roofs lasts for a very long time and at an average it can last for at least 20 years.

The main advantage of torch down roofing is that, it's highly resistant to rainwater, which means it is highly beneficial for people who have flat roofs. Usually rainwater gets collected on flat roofs and starts damaging the roofs over time, but with this kind of roofing there would be no damage at all. The only downside is its cost, which is slightly on the higher side. However, compared to the other roof types, torch down roofing doesn't require any maintenance for a long time. Moreover, high quality resins are mixed with modified bitumen which protects the house from harmful UV rays.

Torch Down Roofing Instructions

While trying to install the roofing, you need to make sure that each member of the team working on the roofing is well informed of his duties. Moreover, the fire should be handled with care and no person should get injured during the process. Eyes should be protected and fire resistant cloths should be worn as far as possible. Besides taking adequate protection, make a list of all the tools you would require before starting. A hot flame torch is the most important thing which you would need during the project. It won't be a good idea to buy a torch if you are just installing one torch down roof. The best way is to rent one from a general equipment rental stores or roofing supply stores. In addition to that, you would also need a sharp knife to cut the roofing material.

Torch Down Roofing Installation

It's not always needed to remove the current roof if you are planning to install a torch down roofing. However, that would depend on the present condition of your roof which already exists. Before you start installation of a torch down roof, make sure that you examine the current roof and see if it works without removing the current one. This step is important as removing the current roof would require additional time and money.

Once you have taken the decision, you can start the process by binding a sheet of fiberglass on the roof surface. Try using a felt of about 40 pounds for the fiberglass base sheet and make sure that you secure the sheet with nails placed at intervals of 4 to 6 inches. Straighten the rolls of the torch down roof so as to remove wrinkles and rumples. You can do this by rolling the roof half way back. Now position the torch at around a foot in front of the straightened roof. Due to the heat, the bitumen would melt and at this point, you should push the straightened roof forward so that it binds with the fiberglass sheet.

Torch Down Roofing Cost

Similar to any major decision, you should take the cost factor into consideration while thinking of torch down roofing. Take your time to estimate the cost of the whole project before starting. There are numerous factors that needs consideration like whether you want to hire a contractor to do the work or you want to do it yourself, the quality of roofing material you want to buy and the cost of other material required for torch down roof installation.

Therefore, even though torch down roofing may cost slightly more, compared to other types of roofing material, if you look at the long term benefits, torch down roof is a better option as you don't need to spend much later on.