Why Torch Down Roofing?
Having a torch down roof has many benefits. Because it is made of modified bitumen sticking to fiberglass layers, it is an excellent method of waterproofing. It prevents water from pooling on the rooftop. It’s designed to be used on flat or low sloping roofs. It doesn’t require much maintenance. It also void of the fumes that are common on tar roofs.
Furthermore, it is very durable. It is resistant to punctures and other damage. It can last from 15 to twenty years depending on how many layers you put on the roof. However, because a torch is used to adhere the bitumen to the fiberglass, there is a possibility of the roof catching fire.
Preparation for Torch Down Roofing
Your first step on installing torch down roofing is tearing down the old material on the roof. You can put the torch down roofing over the existing shingles. However, it’s advisable to do a teardown that will allow you to see if there are any cracks or rotting on the deck.
Your next step is to secure the flashing to the edge of the roof. This will allow the torch down roofing to be more secure. You should also apply a primer to the metal flashing, which will help improve its ability to prevent leaks.
The Cost of Torch Down Roofing
The price of torch down roofing will depend on what the contractor charges and what the materials cost. Torch down roofing is relatively cheap. A normal installation works out to be about a $1,000 more than an asphalt roof. The extra money you spend initially will be saved over the life of the roof because torch down roofing repair costs are so much lower than that of an asphalt roof.
Installation of Torch Down Roofing
When you start actually installing torch down roofing, your first step is to layout the fiberglass on the topside of the roof making sure its flat and even. Then you nail the fiberglass to the roof, using nails that are five inches apart.
Next, you roll out the bitumen and using a knife you cut the bitumen to the right size, including any awkwardly placed corners or odd angles. Then you roll up half the bitumen, exposing the fiberglass. After that, you fire the underside of the bitumen, which becomes molten. The molten bitumen you attach to the fiberglass. Then you stomp on the adhered pieces to ensure they are tightly sealed.
TPO Roofing Weathering Package
These TPO packages are designed to withstand high temperatures. The range of these packages are said to be from 60 degrees to 275 degrees Fahrenheit. The purpose of this weathering package is to block UV rays that might cause cracking or material failure.
Coating Torch Down Roofing
After a month or two, you can apply a coating to your torch down roofing. The coating will help make it more fireproof and protect the roof from sun rays.