When you hear people talking about roofs or roofing, more often than not, what comes into your mind is the traditional ones: pitched or sloped roofs. 

Flat roofing involves applying various roofing services to an almost plain, low-leveled, or low-sloped roof. This type of roofing is characterized by its minimal pitch, making it distinct from traditional sloped roofs. One of the common flat roofing materials is torch-on roofing, which is also known as torch-down roofing.

flat roofing

Torch On Roofing and Torch On Membrane in Flat Roofing

Another name for Torch-On Roofing is torch down which is named after the installation method of the roofing material that makes use of an open-flame propane torch to heat up the membrane and adhere securely to the surface. On the other hand, torch-on membrane is a waterproof roofing system that is made up of a modified bitumen layer strengthened by polyester or fiberglass materials where the bottom-side of the roofing material is heated so that it adheres to your roof. 

3 Advantages of a Newly Installed Torch On Roofing Membrane of Flat Roof 

Pitched roofs just don’t always go with the building hundred percent of the time. Sometimes, we want to give our buildings a clean crown for aesthetic reasons too, just like how you boys get your haircut done.

Today, torch-on roofing is highly sought after by commercial and residential builders, contractors, and construction companies because of the advantages that it brings besides its good appearance:

Roof Durability – Torch-on is known to endure strong weather conditions due to its waterproofing advantages. They give high quality protection against water infiltration, helping to maintain the structure of any building. 

Effective Adhesion of Membrane to the Substrate – the open-flame propane torch creates a strong connection and robust bond between the membrane and the roof substrate that enhances the overall stability and improves wind resistance.

Sustainability of Cold and Hot Climates – Roofs react differently depending on the factors such as climates. Because torch-on roofing provides enough strength to the flat roof to survive regardless of the weather or climate, it adds more years to the roof, therefore prolonging your roof’s lifespan. 

3 Advantages of Reroofing Your Existing Torch On Membrane of Flat Roof

As you used your bike, you saw that it was having issues so you made time to check the parts. As you were checking them, you saw a sub-part of a main part that has been damaged that needs to be addressed right away. You think to yourself then that you could just buy the sub-part from a bike shop rather than replacing the entire main part. 

For an existing roof membrane, it is also possible to just have it reroofed rather than having it replaced with a new set of torch on roofing membrane. Below are some of the reroofing advantages:

Cost Effective – when an issue arises in your flat roof, it doesn’t necessarily mean that it is no longer in good condition, you could put off replacement by years, which would make you save the amount you won’t spend for the flat roofing cost in Vancouver and for the additional materials you don’t have to pay for.

Time-Saving – compared to a total roof replacement, the reroofing process is faster to finish, decreasing the time or days you’ll be spending in supervising your roof and the roofers.

Preservation of Existing Layers – when ordering for a total roof replacement, some existing layers even when they’re still in good condition get thrown away. When reroofing your roof, the existing layers and materials get preserved maximizing its full use. 

Which is the Better Option?

When deciding between installing a new membrane over an existing roof or opting for a complete reroofing, the choice ultimately lies with you. It depends on the factors and priorities that matter most to you. This blog won’t dictate your decision but aims to provide valuable insights into the advantages of both options. Understanding your roof’s specific needs is key to making the right choice for your situation.

Ultimately, whichever option you go with, choosing the right roofer is what truly matters most.