There are three types of roofing systems used for rubber membrane roofs.
Flat roof torch on membranes.
Modified bitumen torch down roofing.
There are also self adhesive versions of modified bitumen that install in a peel and stick fashion.
Modified bitumen vs pvc membranes flat roofs a traditional torch on flat roof is not a desirable surface for a functional flat roof deck.
The peel and stick method is available as a do it yourself option.
The modified bitumen option is a single ply rolled roof available in traditional torch down systems and newer peel and stick systems.
The conventional method of installation called torch down involves heating the backside of the roofing as it is unrolled essentially melting the material to the base layer.
Flat roof membranes are used in both residential and commercial roofing projects.
Once a single ply torch down is coupled with a second layer modified bitumen membrane it becomes a two ply system that surpasses the quality and standards of all other roofing systems.
Installation costs can be just as high for a flat roof as they would be for a steeper roof with say an 18 12 pitch.
The sheets are rolled onto the roof atop a base sheet membrane.
When installed correctly by a roofing professional torch on roofing prevents water from collecting and pooling on the roof and promotes drainage.
Provided the membrane and insulation are installed according to manufacturer application instructions the flat surface of a torch down roof prevents water from collecting and allows it to drain off.
They can be partially loose laid and held down with river rock ballast requires roof structure to support the weight or fully adhered to the roof deck.
Gravel is an excellent fire retardant.
Take into account that flat roofs often require the application of a layer of insulation adhesives or hot air welding and some types such as modified bitumen are installed with a torch that heats up the seal.
Membrane roofs are attached in a variety of ways.
It s the cheapest of the four roof varieties.
Once made of tar paper these types of roofs gradually are using more advanced materials such as fiberglass membranes.
Built up roof bur the traditional hot tar and gravel roof is built from three or more plies of waterproof material alternated with hot tar and ballasted by a layer of smooth river stone.
The materials on flat roofs are mostly rubber.
However their popularity does not mean it s the best type of roofing membrane but rather the easiest to install requiring very few hand.
In residential it is used predominantly for large apartment buildings garage roofs and small extensions.
Modified bitumentorch down is by far the most durable roofing material.
Epdm rubber membrane roofs are the most popular of all the membranes.
Heat sealed seams and ultra waterproof membranes make torch down roofing one of the most highly water resistant flat roof systems.
Although tpo is a vinyl type of material we will also include it as part of this article.
Attractive for windows and decks that overlook the roof.
These materials are classified as single ply roofing membranes.
