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COMMERCIAL ROOFING

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ABOUT UNITED

United Contracting & Roofing is a local, family owned and operated business. Our focus is long lasting relationships with our clients with quality service.

Torch Down Roofing

Torch-down roofing is a common technique used to create flat roofs throughout the United States.

This type of roofing is called torch-down roofing because the roofer uses an open flame from a propane torch in the application. To lay a torch down roof, rolls of modified bitumen are laid out in sheets. The torch is used to heat the seams, sealing them against the weather. A torch-down roof offers excellent heat and cold tolerance and can be laid down as either a two- or three-layer system, depending on your needs.

Workers placing a vapor barrier on the roof using a propane gas torch for welding bitumen sheets

How it Works

Modified Bitumen - Torch Down Roofing

Modified bitumen is comprised of asphalt compounded with plastic or rubber to create a material that can expand and contract with the weather. This prevents cracks due to temperature fluctuations, and since the material can withstand extremes in temperature it will also not be damaged by hot weather.

There are two types of modified bitumen: APP and SBS. APP, or Atactic Polypropylene, is a form of plastic instead of rubber. APP-modified bitumen creates a membrane that is flexible and highly adaptable to heat and cold.

SBS, or Styrene Butadiene Styrene, is a form of rubber. SBS-modified bitumen is flexible and has a lower melt point than AAP-modified bitumen. In fact, it can also be a product that is cold-pressed or self-adhered and may be applied with a mop.

Torch Down Roofing Professionals

If your home or business requires a new roof, consider torch-down roofing for your flat roof. It is ideal for roofs with a slight pitch (between ¼:12 and 1:12) rather than a completely level roof. Torch-down roofing boasts a long lifespan and is designed for all climates. As a bonus, it is a simple process for our roofing professionals to repair.

Find your best option

If you have any questions about whether torch-down roofing could be right for your home or business, contact us today to schedule our free consultation. One of our roofing professionals will inspect your roof and provide recommendations and estimates for your project.

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