Torch Down Roof Fires

They call into question whether old school torched down asphalt based roofing makes sense in residential construction any more.

Torch down roof fires.

Torch down roofing is a type of roofing that consists of layers of modified bitumen adhered to layers of fiberglass with a flame torch. With this system the modified bitumen can bond tightly to metal flashings while the rubbery additives in the asphalt allow the roofing to expand and contract when other roofing systems. Propane torch caused roof fires are a daily occurrence in b c. Torch on roofing posses significant fire risks.

Torch down roofing sometimes referred to as torch on roofing is so named because it requires an open flame propane torch. These two main base materials are melted together using a torch to form a thick layer. Fires caused by open flame propane torches on flat roof installations splash across the news on a fairly regular basis like the one in toronto recently that burned down an entire row of new townhouses. This process is popular with many contractors mainly because of its ease of installation and its adaptability.

This layer now becomes a waterproof material that is ideal for both commercial and residential use. Most of these fires are immediately extinguished it being mandatory to have fire extinguishers present at all times. Torch down roofing is used only for flat or low slope roofs. In this installation method sheets of modified bitumen are rolled out onto the roof and a roofing professional uses a hand held propane torch to heat the material and adhere it to the surface.

The primary downside of torch down roofing is that it is applied with an open flame and therefore always poses some level of fire hazard.