Think you know everything there is to know about roofing and the different types of roof solutions that are available these days? You probably don’t. There’s so much info out there, even some roofing professionals don’t know it all.
But do you know what torch down roofing is? It’s one solution that could be right for you and your roof. In this article, we’re going to look at it a bit more closely so that you know exactly what torch down roofing involves, and why it might be right for your home.
Keep reading for all the info you might need and more, as well as how to install your own torch down roofing rather than rely on an external contractor.
What is torch down roofing?
Torch down roofing can also be known as torch-on roofing, but for the rest of this article we’ll refer to it as torch down roofing. Torch roofing is a way of covering a flat roof which is made up of three layers. These three layers are bitumen, and they are melted on to a roof surface. For a number of reasons, torch down roofing is a popular roofing solution.
Torch down is melted onto a roof to create a waterproof seal and durable roof finish that protects the roof in a number of weather conditions, is long-lasting, and reasonably affordable to apply.
One thing to remember about this method is that it’s a flat-roof solution. This is where some people get mixed up. You can’t install torch down on a pitched roof like many traditional homes have. However, more and more homes are having flat roofs these days, making it a more and more popular roofing solution. Not only that, but it’s a great option for other buildings that have flat roofs, as many do.
If you have the right expertise, you can also apply a torch down roof yourself, although you will need to be careful as it requires hot welding and melting along with equipment, as well as having to access a roof. If you’re unsure about doing it yourself, always consult an expert.
The layers of torch down roofing have traditionally been made up of three different layers. These layers include:
- A cap sheet that has a mineral finish
- reinforced felt
- A vapor control sheet (normally in that order).
Building regulations in most areas actually require these three sheets in order to make a home habitable and safe.
However, this isn’t the case for all types of buildings. While homes might require 3-layer down roofing, other types of buildings don’t necessarily. Sheds and garages are examples of buildings that don’t have to have three layers, and can do just fine with two. It might be worth checking the building regulations in your area, or asking a professional to see what is and isn’t required.
Torch down roofing has become increasingly popular over the last few years. That’s because more and more roofing firms are offering it as a solution. not only that, but its’ a relatively cost-effective way to seal and protect a roof. It’s widely available in most locations with good roofing options, so it might be a good idea to ask your roofer about torch-down roofing today.
What are the benefits of torch down roofing?
We’ve already touched on a few of the benefits of torch down roofing. But if you’d like to know them in a bit more detail, let’s have a look.
Firstly, this form of roofing is very affordable. Some other roofing solutions cost a lot more. It isn’t that easy to apply, but most roofers can do a good job. Some people who are good at DIY might decide to take on the job themselves, but working with hot materials isn’t really recommended unless you’re certain you know what you’re doing and have the right protective equipment.
Torch-down roofing is not only affordable, it’s also quick and easy to install. That means a good quality roofer can get everything sorted and sealed within a day. That’s one of the reasons why it’s cheap, but it’s also a reason why people are choosing this method of roofing when they need their roof sealed quickly. Maybe the weather is setting in and you don’t have a sealed roof after some repair or a new installation. That’s a good reason to choose this solution.
Torch down is also a durable solution that provides good protection against a number of weather conditions. It can last many years before it needs repairing if you get a good torch down job. It is considered a quick and easy job by many roofers.
One reason why torch down is also popular is because it can be applied in a range of weather conditions. Unlike some other solutions, torch down can be applied when it’s wet and rainy, as well as in warm weather. This means it’s a great choice if you’ve just had roof repairs or there’s a lot of wet weather and you want to protect against leaks. A lot of other roof solutions need you to wait for it to be dry before applying, which can be prohibitive. That’s why torch down is one of the most popular solutions for flat roofs.
Torch down roofing is very resistant against sun damage from UV rays. it also has good protection against strong winds as well as heavy rain. This makes it good for climates that experience a lot of these weather conditions, which is really almost anywhere. Temperatures inside buildings are kept cool in warmer months when you have torch down roofing, compares to some other solutions.
There are a few disadvantages associated with torch down roofing, but these are minimal. One disadvantage is that it can be hazardous to install as roofers are required to work with heat and flames. That’s why it’s important you find the right roofing contractor with the right experience, but there should be plenty in your area that know enough about torch down roofing to do a good job.
