Getting the Best Return on your Torch on Roof Investment

Torch On Roofing tends to do very well in any climate, is resistant to leaks, has a long lifespan and rarely needs repairs. But even a tough material like the torch on membrane system delivers better performance with proper care.

Ideal Homes for Torch On Roofing

Typically, this type of roofing is applied to low slope or flat roofs. It’s called “torch down” or “torch” roofing because of the method of application; The under-side area of the roofing is heated with a blow torch in order to melt the material that comes into contact with the sheathing of the roof. This seals the material very well, providing a sound hold and creating the waterproofing aspect this roofing is so well-known for. Because it is applied to flat roofs, it is important that the building it is applied to is structurally sound and able to withstand the required weight. This is especially true in snowy areas, as snow will pile onto the roof until melting. An adequate water draining system must also be in place to direct the rain off of the roof.

Performing Seasonal Checks

Performing seasonal checks of the torch on roofing is an important part of a homeowner’s regular home maintenance. Checking over the roof 3-4 times a year will reveal any problems that need to be taken care of immediately. Homeowners should look for tears, any curling in the material, standing water on the roof, issues with flashings, or any other potential problems.

It’s not likely that the homeowner will need to make repairs often, as this type of roofing is notorious for being low-maintenance and very strong. However, simple repairs aren’t expensive to make, though they usually require the assistance of a professional. Homeowners should always use caution when performing these seasonal checks and should understand roof safety before starting. Those who aren’t sure are better off contacting a professional to handle it for them.

Basic Maintenance Required to Protect the Roof

In order to protect their investment, homeowners should take care of other basic maintenance in addition to seasonal checks of the roof. Ensuring that gutters are clean is very important; additional weight can pile up in gutters, tearing them away from the structure of the home, and damaging the roof. Gutters should be cleaned at least twice a year but should be checked seasonally and after big storms or rough weather. It’s also common for debris (pine cones, tree branches, leaves, etc.) to pile onto flat roofs, so this debris should be cleared quite regularly. Checking for debris every 1-2 months is a good idea.

Periodic Professional Care

More in-depth maintenance than simple debris-clearing and seasonal checks should be performed by a professional; it’s a good idea to have the roof checked every 6 months to ensure that there are no issues that wouldn’t be easily visible to the untrained eye.

Tears, flashing problems, curling, and other issues that require repairs should also be handled by a professional. Many experts recommend having the torch down roof re-sealed every 5-6 years to ensure proper waterproofing and to extend the life of the roof. The cost for repairing a small tear, or other minor damage, in this type of roof, could be as low as a few hundred dollars, while the price to replace this roof should the damage become too severe could exceed $10,000. Small repairs should be made as soon as the damages are discovered.

Homeowner Benefits

There are many benefits to this type of roofing, including low maintenance, long lifespan, excellent waterproofing, and durability. Real estate experts suggest that upgrading the roof of a home, including installing roofing solutions with long life spans, can increase the value of a home. A recent survey of real estate agents by ConsumerReports.org revealed that 31% of real estate agents mentioned that the roof was an important renovation or upgrade homeowners could do to increase resale value. Because torch on roofing is low maintenance, homeowners can save significantly when it comes to repairs. However, small repairs handled quickly can also save money, as making immediate repairs can prevent larger and more costly repairs down the line.

Taking care of your investment and performing regular maintenance and inspections can increase the lifespan of the torch on the roof and save money.