Built-up tar and gravel roofing, torch down roofing and rubber membrane (EPDM) are three types of roofing the tlat roofs. Torch down roofing has been used for commercial roofing since 1970s and today is very popular for residential roofing. Torch down roofing uses base sheet and rubberized asphalt sheet, so called modified bitumen sheet. Fiberglass is used as base sheet. Flat or low slope roofs (less than 1 degree) must be watertight; otherwise ponding water will find the way and penetrate the house. Torch down roofing is slightly more expensive than tar and gravel roof but it protects your home better. This type of roofing lasts from 15 to 20 years, depending on number of layers you use. Two-layer roofing can last 10 – 15 years, while three-layer roofing lasts up to 20 years.

If there are already two layers of the material on the roof it is better to tear them off, but if there is just one pre-existing layer, you can place the new one over it. Inspect the roof carefully; surface should be smooth, clean and without blisters or cracks. Before you start to work, make sure you have everything you need – base sheet, modified bitumen sheet, nails, utility knife and, of course, hot flame torch. If you are planning to do torch down roofing only once, do not buy a torch because it is very expensive. You can rent it. This type of roofing is very demanding; careless or unprofessional handling can cause fire or serious injuries.

Begin with installing fiberglass base sheet. Place it on the roof surface and nail it down with cap nails. Control and secure the flashings around the edges. Apply primer; that will enable roofing material to adhere to the metal. Place the first row of the membrane at the low end of the roof. Overlap the edges of the roof for three inches. Unfold the membrane and smooth the wrinkles if there are any. Roll the membrane back a little and check whether it is tight and in good position. Place the torch about 12 inches in front of the membrane and move it in L-shaped motion. When the membrane gets shiny, push it with your foot so that it can bond with fiberglass base sheet. Use special tool to lift the end of the membrane and apply heath. Next sheet of membrane should overlap for six inches and next layer must overlap the bottom one for three inches.
Although torch down roofing is very durable and water resistant it requires extreme precaution when using hot flame torch. Consider hiring experienced professional to do the job.

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